Strategies for Removing Freckles at Home and through Professional Treatment
Sunspots, also known as age spots or liver spots, are common pigmented spots that appear on the skin due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. These spots are often found on parts of the body that receive the most sun, such as the face, shoulders, hands, and arms.
Exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds can cause sunspots by pumping up the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. While sunspots do not lead to skin cancer and do not require medical attention or treatment, having more sunspots may indicate a history of more sun exposure and a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
For those seeking to lighten or remove sunspots, a variety of treatment options are available. At-home remedies include topical creams containing deoxyarbutin, hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, or kojic acid, as well as natural remedies such as topical black tea water, green tea extracts, apple cider vinegar (ACV), aloe, licorice extract, and vitamins C and E. It's important to note that ACV should be diluted before applying to the skin to avoid burns, and vitamin C and E products should be used with caution as they can increase sun sensitivity.
Professional sunspot treatment options are more intensive and may provide faster results. These include cryotherapy, microneedling, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, and intense pulse light (IPL). However, these treatments may not be covered by insurance and can be costly.
Visiting a board-certified dermatologist for treatment is the most effective way to get rid of sunspots. The selection of treatments for removing sun damage by a dermatology specialist in Germany is based on the type, extent, and depth of the skin damage, the patient's skin type, overall health, and aesthetic goals. Some treatments used to remove sunspots can even skin tone, improve skin texture, decrease the look of fine lines, and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
It's crucial to remember that preventing sunspots is the best approach. This involves applying a high quality sunscreen daily, covering skin with UV-blocking clothing, limiting exposure to UVA and UVB rays, avoiding direct sun exposure, and not going tanning.
Removing sunspots may have a positive effect on self-esteem, but it is not necessary for health reasons. If you're considering sunspot removal, it's important to discuss your options with a dermatologist to ensure you make an informed decision.
