How to manage skin spots?
We can call them age spots, sun spots or brown spots, what we do want is for them to disappear. There are two options for treating them: do it at home (it's less expensive, painless, and doesn't require any downtime, although it does require patience) or let a dermatologist handle the procedure in the office (it's expensive, results are more immediate, requires downtime and is definitely more painful). Here are some recommendations:
- Use mineral-based sunscreen daily
Prevention is an essential part of the solution, and we explain why below. Continuous exposure to the sun accelerates pigment production, activates new spots and darkens older ones, which sabotages any dermatological treatment or topical product you are applying. Consider it part of your wellness strategy, like eating healthy or exercising. In the long run, it will pay off. Sun protection throughout the year is essential to prevent the appearance of new brown spots and protect the treated skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of UVB rays." Long story short: Even spots you've treated at home can come back, unless you include them in your plan a mineral-based sunscreen. Also apply a mineral sunscreen "for the face" on your hands, neck and chest, that is, anywhere vulnerable and visible to the sun.
- Have your spots checked by a dermatologist before treating them at home
If you opt for home treatment and have not had your annual skin cancer screening, schedule one. Don't try to treat these discolorations until your doctor gives you the green light.
- Cover them with makeup
After age 50, discolorations are annoying but normal. "Women of any skin tone can notice changes in their skin color as they age. Some get dark spots, others get light spots, and some get broken blood vessels or red spots. Discolorations that don't They pose no health risk and can be easily camouflaged with a foundation. These superior facial makeups really cover and look like skin, they don't look dry, cakey or fake. A little goes a long way.
- Add "next generation" retinol to your routine
Retinol is a form of vitamin A known to increase cell turnover, which in turn smoothes lines and wrinkles. It's been around for years, but did you know that retinol also helps minimize brown spots? "Products with retinol that combine this powerful ingredient with other stain removers, such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, glycolic acid or lactic acid, are the latest novelty. You must be persistent, since the results do not They are achieved overnight. Consistent use of retinol and sunscreen helps skin that has been treated for blemishes with dermatological procedures to stay fresh and glowing.
- Trust vitamin C to lighten and brighten
Vitamin C (also known as L-ascorbic acid) is another important ingredient that we love for its ability to block free radicals, those rogue molecules that cause wrinkles and skin damage. But vitamin C is also an effective spot fader, since it can act specifically on problem areas—without affecting healthy ones—and even out skin tone. This makes it useful for both the face and the back of the hands and the chest or neck area. But be careful: Vitamin C can sometimes irritate sensitive skin. Test a small area of skin on the inside of your forearm and wait 24 hours before applying it to your face for the first time. If you have dry skin, look for hydrating formulas.
In summary, I would say that you start with the simplest thing, which is to seek the opinion of a skin professional. There are many products that are specifically for treating stains. I will always recommend those that are natural to minimize unwanted reactions. I am not a doctor so I only give some basic recommendations that you can have as a reference so that you can do a little more searching for information so that you can go down a path with which you feel comfortable and safe.