We need some exposure to sunlight as it is an important source of vitamin D, but overexposure to UV rays (ultraviolet radiation) damages the skin’s cellular DNA and can cause pigmentation, wrinkles, dryness, sunburn, leathery texture – and even cancer. Age spots, also known as brown spots, sun spots, liver spots or lentigos, are flat, oval patches of pigmented skin, can also appear.
As we age, the amount of collagen in the skin begins to deplete, causing it to lose its structure, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin. Sun exposure speeds this process up, breaking down the skin’s collagen and causing wrinkles, or ‘solar elastosis’.
UVA sunlight stimulates the pigment cells, called melanocytes, to manufacture this pigment called melanin. This is not only responsible for a tan but also for your unwanted dark patches. The most common colour is brown, but they can also be red or almost black. These usually occur in adults over 40, but younger people can also get them if they spend a lot of time in the sun. Age spots are completely harmless.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
You may have age spots if you detect a spot that has the following conditions:
✔ Range from light brown to black in colour
✔ Have the same texture as the rest of your skin
✔ Range from freckle size to about half inch
✔ They can group together, making them more noticeable
✔ Are usually on sun-exposed areas of your skin
PREVENTING AGE SPOTS & SUN DAMAGE
PREVENTING AGE SPOTS
You can prevent age spots from developing on your skin by following these tips:
✔ Wear SPF (Sun Protection Factor) sunscreen. Use a SPF of 30 or higher when you are outdoors, whether in the sun or not, as UVA light levels can cause damage throughout the year. Reapply every two hours if you are swimming or perspiring.
✔ Avoid the sun between 10am and 2pm. The sun’s rays are most intense during this time.
✔ Eating antioxidant food which can be found in fruit – especially intensely coloured fruit such as berries or blackcurrants – and vegetables.
TREATMENTS FOR AGE SPOTS
Although there are a variety of treatments to remove or reduce your age spots. It is recommended you consult an expert practitioner who will advise you of the best option for your individual case.
SKIN PEELS
There are a number of skin peels that are designed to treat pigmentation for your skin type and tone. The treatment involves applying a non-toxic chemical to the skin to encourage natural exfoliation and remove imperfections. As dead skin cells are removed, your pigmentation is reduced.
HARMONY XL PRO
Clinically proven to be safe and effective, the Harmony laser creates tiny “microthermal” zones (like pixels) deep into your skin, stimulating new collagen production. This means the growth of fresh, clear and new healthy skin cells. Your skin will feel smoother, less blotchy, and will have a glow to it.
PLASMA PEN
The Plasma Pen is a very effective solution to age spots, superficially burning them from the skins surface to reveal clear skin beneath. Only one treatment is required with the plasma and it can be used to treat age spots on most areas of the face and body. We can apply numbing cream if required.
TREATMENT FOR AGEING SKIN
Although there are a variety of treatments to remove or reduce your signs of ageing. It is recommended you consult an expert practitioner who will advise you of the best option for your individual case.
DERMAL FILLERS
Dermal fillers can be used to help plump out the skin where sagging and wrinkles have appeared due to a depletion in collagen caused by sun exposure.
SKIN PEELS
Our range of Skin peels including Obaji and TCA have proven very effective at resurfacing damaged skin and revealing fresh, new skin.
MICRONEEDLING
Microneedling is designed to help stimulate the skin’s natural production of collagen. Laser resurfacing systems such as Harmony XL can also be used.
STILL UNSURE?
Still unsure on the treatment? Why not check our our frequently asked questions below!
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