What is it?
There are different types of spots which can appear in different shapes and colours throughout the body. Some are congenital in nature, present since birth, and others will manifest themselves over time due to other factors.
Most spots are the result of skin hyperpigmentation. Due to excessive exposure to the sun, hormonal variations, genetic predispositions, or skin trauma, hyperpigmentation occurs when the melanocyte cells of the body produce excessive amounts of melanin – the brown pigment that colors the skin. The excessive production of melanin then piles up in some localized areas, causing small spots on the surface of the skin that contrast with the color of the clearer, surrounding skin.
Other spots are related to vascular malformation caused by abnormal dilation of the blood vessels. While this phenomenon occurs more often due to skin aging, it can also be attributed to prolonged and repeated exposure to the sun.
Attention !
It is advisable to monitor the evolution of these types of spots. If they change in size, shape, color or if they are bleeding, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
Did you know?
Some are congenital in nature, present since birth, and others will manifest themselves over time due to other factors.
How to prevent?
Protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun with high quality sun protection, focusing on the most exposed areas where the spots most often appear: the face, the hands, the neckline, the shoulders and the arms. Also, plan your outdoor activities while the sun is not at its highest point, wear wide hats and clothing during exposure and avoid tanning salons.
Avoid photosensitizing products that make the skin more sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Many fragrances contain essential oil extracts that can increase this sensitivity. Some medicines, cosmetics and deodorants are also photosensitizers. Ask a health care professional about the products you apply to your body before exposing yourself to the sun.
Exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells on the skin surface and promote cell renewal. The superficial brown spots will be easier to remove.
Use specialized serums and anti-spot creams.
Avoid tobacco, coffee, alcohol and spicy foods that can promote the formation of certain types of spots.
How to treat?
Fractional lasers
Different types of fractional lasers help to improve problematic spots. Although there are different types, the basic principle is the same: the energy of the laser causes superficial microscopic lesions on the skin to force the latter to repair itself. The new epidermal cells reveal radiant-looking skin and a uniform complexion.
The type of laser used depends on the color of the skin and the nature of the irregular pigmentation to be treated. An improvement is usually noted following a few sessions.
Medical lasers
These lasers emit an intense beam of light at a precise wavelength, which targets a type of tissue in treated body region. When the energy beam reaches its target, it is absorbed and transformed into heat: a heat that inactivates or destroys the cells in the targeted region. All excessive and non-homogeneous irregular pigmentation are eliminated.
The type of laser used depends on the color of the skin and the nature of the irregular pigmentation to be treated. An improvement is usually noted following a few sessions.
