Age spots, sun spots, brown spots….they unfortunately happen to the best of us. They also make us look older which is why a lot of people come in asking how to get rid of them. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments and skin care products available to do the job. The best way to get rid of age spots is with a combination of in-office treatments and quality at-home skin care products.
Skincare
Popular products to brighten the skin often contain hydroquinone, a skin lightener used to fade dark spots by reducing the melanin in the skin. The down side with hydroquinone is studies show that it can be toxic to cells if used consistently so it’s important to take breaks from use every 3-4 months. The product we recommend for skin brightening is SkinMedica’s Brightening System, which includes Lytera Skin Brightening Complex and a quality retinol. Lytera is safe for the skin and can be used long-term with no adverse side effects.
In-Office Treatments
The in-office treatment recommended to tackle age spots will depend on a variety of factors, such as a patients skin type, level of sun damage, patients schedule, lifestyle, etc. More invasive treatments require only 1-2 treatments but come with up to week of downtime so some patients prefer taking is slow with treatments that require 3-6 visits but come with minimal to no downtime.
Intense Pulse Light (IPL) or Fotofacial
IPL treatments are performed by our master aestheticians and treat pigmentation deep in the skin. The actual procedure takes 20-30 minutes in-0ffice with anywhere from 2-6 treatments are recommended for maximum results. The treatment works by heating pigment in the skin which then begins to lift and slough off around one week following treatment. Common areas treatment is performed include the face, décolleté and hands.
Chemical Peels
Our master estheticians will typically recommend SkinCeuticals Pigment Balancing Peel to tackle sun damage. This chemical peel also stimulated collagen production to reduce signs of photoaging and improves the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dullness by exfoliating surface cells. Brightening and anti-inflammatory agents are the main ingredients that help treat sun damage. A series of 2-6 treatments are typically recommended and you can expect slightly red and flaky skin for 2-5 days following treatment.
Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment
A fractional CO2 laser treatment is a more invasive option that completely resurfaces the skin. It works by creating tiny wounds in the skin the force it to make new collagen and elastin. This process reduces age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scarring and improves overall skin tone. It differs from chemical peels and skin rejuvenation in that it goes deeper into the skin and typically requires only 1-2 treatments for maximum improvement. The down time is longer as it takes approximately 7 days for the damaged outer layers to completely slough off revealing smoother brighter skin.
While it’s great that there are so many options available to tackle sun damage, it can be difficult to determine what treatment plan is right for you. Our master estheticians and Dr. Thompson offer complimentary skin consultations so together, you can decide on the best course of action to help you achieve your goals. Appointments can be made by calling (801)776-2220 or by contacting us HERE.