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NOTICE: It is important to properly identify any spot on your skin. Skin cancer is a serious condition that should not be ignored. Please see a licensed dermatologist for a professional evaluation of any spots that are concerning. Always apply sunscreen on any skin that is exposed to the sun.
Sunspots (in the context of this article) are flat brown spots that develop on the skin from sun exposure causing pigmented skin cells called melanocytes to multiply in the skin. Melanocytes are skin cells that produce a protective skin-darkening pigment called melanin.
Most sunspots fade over time, but they often do not disappear completely without intervention because the skin has been damaged.
The good news is, they can be treated.
You have two choices.
You can choose invasive options or using serums and creams with effective ingredients proven to lighten skin.
PRO: Invasive options tend to work faster.
CON: Invasive options are costly and have a higher risk of side effects.
PRO: Serums and creams rarely cause any side effects WHEN you choose a quality serum or cream with the right ingredients. (More on that below)
CON: Serums and creams require discipline because it will take applying them once or twice a day for 30-90 days to get results.
Invasive options range from acid peels to laser, intense pulsed light (IPL), freezing (cryotherapy), dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.
Laser will require one or two treatments, but it is quick with long-lasting results. Some potential side effects are crusting or temporary darkening of sunspots. However, these side effects tend to fade quickly. I highly recommend, if choosing this option, using NeoGenesis Recovery following a laser treatment because it significantly speeds the healing process.
Cryosurgery is when a dermatologist freezes the sunspots. As the skin heals, it has a more even skin tone. Cryosurgery can be painful, but it is quick.
Aside from pain, risks are blistering or temporary redness and swelling. Possible permanent side effects of Cryo are darkening of spots, lightening of the skin around the age spot, or scaring. When a board-certified dermatologist performs cryosurgery, permanent side effects are rare but still possible since the way a person’s skin responds can vary and be unpredictable. Do not take shortcuts in choosing the professional if you opt for cryosurgery.
Microdermabrasion is performed with a special device that buffs away the sunspots. This can be quite effective, especially when a patient also has a chemical peel. Plan to get microdermabrasion once every two weeks for 16 weeks but this makes sunspots completely disappear.
Following this kind of treatment, you may see mild inflammation that lasts for a few hours to flakey skin that lasts for a few days. Again, I highly recommend following this treatment with NeoGenesis Recovery for optimal healing.
A chemical peel can remove the layer of skin where the sunspot is and reveal skin cells that have not been damaged by the sun.
Safe chemical peel options are alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acid), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA). Glycolic acid (GA) is the most common alpha-hydroxy acid peel and is also known as a fruit peel.
The risks of chemical peels include scarring, infection, and a substantial contrast in coloration of the treated skin. The time required to heal is based on the depth of the peel. This may sound simple, but this treatment is best given by a licensed professional to ensure a safe treatment.
As stated before, using serums and creams requires a commitment to applying twice daily (AM/PM) to get results. Most skin brightening serums or creams work either by reducing or suppressing melanin production.
Top Ingredients to SAFELY Lighten Sunspots:
My favorite skin brightening combination is: Brighten the Day, Triple C + Gold and Sleep On It Vegan Retinol (PM use)
You may have heard of hydroquinone as a skin brightener. Many years ago it was a popular option but it has not proven to be effective long term. The FDA regulates the use of hydroquinone.
I do not recommend hydroquinone because it can lead to unwanted side effects and with prolonged use causes premature aging and can lead to skin cancer. Plus, it is not permanent. Oftentimes after sun exposure, spots can come back vigorously. This is outdated protocol and no longer necessary with so many safe options available.
I do not recommend steroids in skin brightening products which can lead to skin infections, and problems related to absorption by the body.
I do not recommend skin bleaching agents because they can cause skin irritation and allergic reaction. Again, much safer options are available.
The truth about sunspots is, you have options, and they CAN be treated safely! Choose your option based on what you are willing to pay and risk, and willingness to stick to a routine to achieve desired results.
There is no one size fits all treatment. If you choose a serum and creams option, you must experiment to find which ingredients YOUR skin responds to the best. Don't give up too soon! Expect to stay the course for at least 30 days. Take a BEFORE picture and compare with a new picture each week to see the subtle changes and gauge your progress. Zap those sunspots with consistent care!
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