Preventing and Treating Post-Summer Brown Spots at Hazel Clinic
As the summer months come to an end, many of us notice the appearance of brown spots and freckles on our skin, especially in sun-exposed areas. These spots, also known as ephelides and lentigines, can be a cosmetic concern for many, but with the right care and treatment, they can be managed effectively.
What Are Brown Spots and Freckles?
Brown spots and freckles are common skin conditions that develop due to sun exposure. Freckles, or ephelides, typically appear in fair-skinned individuals and tend to fade during the winter months. In contrast, lentigines, often referred to as age spots or liver spots, are more persistent and remain visible even without sun exposure.
Who Is Prone to Brown Spots?
Both freckles and lentigines are more prevalent in individuals with fair skin, particularly those with a history of significant sun exposure. While freckles often appear in children and may fade with age, lentigines are more common in adults over 40 and can appear on anyone with sun-damaged skin.
Causes and Features of Brown Spots
Brown spots result from an increase in melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. When exposed to UV radiation from the sun, melanocytes produce more melanin, leading to the development of these spots. Unlike freckles, lentigines are usually larger, darker, and have a more defined edge, often appearing on the face, hands, and other sun-exposed areas.
How to Prevent Brown Spots
Prevention is key to managing brown spots. At Hazel Clinic, we recommend the following:
Sun Protection: Avoiding excessive sun exposure is crucial. Use high-SPF (50+) broad-spectrum sunscreens daily, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible.
Skin Care Routine: Incorporate products with antioxidants, such as Vitamin C and E, into your daily skincare routine. These can help prevent the formation of new spots.
Treatment Options at Hazel Clinic
If brown spots have already appeared, Hazel Clinic offers several effective treatments under the expert care of Dr. Susana Fontana:
Secret RF Microneedling:
What It Is: A revolutionary treatment combining microneedling with advanced radiofrequency energy to address brown spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture.
How It Helps: Secret RF stimulates collagen production and enhances skin firmness, making it an excellent option for treating hyperpigmentation and rejuvenating the skin.
Cryotherapy:
What It Is: A treatment that uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal skin tissues, such as sunspots, skin tags, and warts.
How It Helps: By applying liquid nitrogen to the affected area, cryotherapy effectively removes pigmented lesions with minimal scarring.
Mole Mapping:
What It Is: A comprehensive skin examination technique that tracks and monitors moles and brown spots over time to detect any changes.
How It Helps: This method allows for the early detection of potentially cancerous lesions, ensuring your skin health is closely monitored.
Chemical Dermal Peeling: A light chemical peel is an excellent option for improving skin texture and tone. It reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles and subtly lightens brown spots. With repeated treatments, the results become more pronounced. For those needing a more intensive treatment, a medium chemical peel can make treated skin noticeably smoother, providing a significant reduction in brown spots.
Conclusion
At Hazel Clinic, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy, radiant skin year-round. Whether you’re looking to prevent brown spots or seeking advanced treatments to reduce their appearance, Dr. Susana Fontana and our team are here to help. Explore our range of skincare solutions, including Secret RF, cryotherapy, and mole mapping, to keep your skin looking its best even after the summer sun.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website at Hazel Clinic or contact us directly at hello@hazelclinic.ie. Let’s work together to achieve a brighter, more even complexion!
