What causes the brown spots on my skin? Brown spots on the skin, commonly known as age spots or liver spots, occur as the result of frequent or prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun or from commercial tanning beds. They may also occur as a natural part of the aging process, and genetics make some people more likely to get them than others. In most cases, they are not serious or a sign of a more serious condition. However, they still can be quite embarrassing, and patients often choose to have them lightened or removed.
How Do I Prevent Brown Spots on My Skin from Forming
Because age spots are one of the main signs of aging, the majority of people would greatly prefer not to have them. While there are ways to remove them once they are there, it is better to avoid getting them in the first place. To do this, the most important step it to limit your exposure to the sun. The sun’s rays are most intense between 10 AM and 4 PM, so, if possible, it is best to avoid the sun altogether during those times.
When you must go out in the sun, apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors. Make sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB light. It is also important to make sure your sunscreen has a sun-protection factor, or SPF, of at least 15. Sunscreen should be applied generously and reapplied at least every two hours. If you are in the water or perspiring heavily, it should be reapplied more frequently. In addition to using sunscreen, it is also wise to wear wide-brimmed hats and tightly woven clothing that covers the skin. It is also possible to purchase UV-blocking clothing.
Removing Brown Spots on Your Skin
When brown spots are already present, there are several ways to remove them. Topical bleaching creams are commonly used in conjunction with mild steroids to gradually fade them over time. Laser treatments are also very effective in lightening dark spots. They work by precisely targeting the melanin producing cells in the skin and destroying them. Spots may also be frozen in cryotherapy treatments performed to destroy dark pigment. Procedures including chemical peels or dermabrasion may also be performed. These cosmetic procedures are intended to remove the outer layer of the skin, allowing a new layer to grow in its place. More than one treatment is often required, but, in time, dark spots can often be removed completely.
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