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How Can a Dermatologist Repair Sun Spots?

February 7, 2018
By: Dermatology Consultants of Frisco

Despite our best efforts, spending any amount of time in the sun can lead to dark spots and freckles on the face and body. 

Years of UV exposure can turn small freckles into large sunspots. It’s best to seek sun spot removal treatment sooner rather than later, as spots will continue to get bigger every time you’re exposed to the sun. First, it’s important to rule out that your bothersome freckle isn’t skin cancer from UV exposure. Once a dermatologist has ruled out possible skin cancer, there are several different treatments your Carrollton dermatologist can perform to help minimize those stubborn sunspots and rejuvenate your skin’s youthful glow. 

Photorejuvenation and IPL

Photorejuvenation is the improvement of colors, pigments, and skin textures using light sources such as lasers and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). These devices are used to remove brown spots and improve the appearance of the skin. It targets melanin, or skin pigmentation, which is vaporized. Optimal results are seen in 1-3 treatments. Pain is minimal and this procedure does not require numbing creams. There is minimal downtime.

Fraxel

Fraxel is a revolutionary laser that is used to improve the appearance of the skin. It fractionates the laser beam into thousands of microscopic laser columns which gets better results than previous lasers with fewer side effects. It is used for sunspots, skin resurfacing, improvement of texture and tone, and fine lines, and wrinkles. It is usually recommended to have 3-6 treatments for optimal effects.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels remove the damaged skin cells from the upper layers of the skin. There are 3 categories of chemical peels; superficial, medium, and deep. The depth of the peel will affect the inconvenience level after the procedure, the downtime that’s required, side effects, and results. This treatment is used for improved appearance of the skin, fewer wrinkles and better overall texture, and decreased pigmentation of the skin.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a technique that uses microparticles or diamond tips to remove the outer layer of the skin. It can also promote collagen growth. It is virtually painless with no anesthesia required. This treatment is good for photoaging, sun spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Typically patients need 3-12 short treatments to receive optimal results.

Mole Removal

Moles are a common skin growth, usually brown or black in color, but they can also be skin-toned. Moles typically start to develop in childhood. It is normal to have anywhere from 10-50 moles. One treatment that can help with the appearance of unsightly moles is mole removal. Mole removal also helps with the prevention of skin cancers. Exposing your skin and moles to UV rays puts you at risk for developing skin cancer, specifically melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. It is important to have a dermatologist examine your skin and moles regularly for any changes or abnormalities. It is also important to do self-checks regularly and tell your dermatologist about any changes that you find.

If you would like to schedule a consultation about your sun spot removal with a Carrollton dermatologist, please call our office today.