Spot Treatment: Effective Solutions
Skin spots are signs with different colors compared to normal skin. These spots are called
hyperpigmentations and are characterized by a large presence of melanin in a small area of the
skin.
What are the causes
A high concentration of melanin is due to several factors: with age, skin pigmentation tends to become
increasingly irregular. Spots begin to appear mainly on the back of the hands and face. This can
result from hormonal changes, hormone replacement therapies, etc. Other causes include pregnancies,
sun exposure without criteria, etc.
1) METHODS FOR REMOVING SKIN SPOTS
Various methods have been used to eliminate these spots such as chemical peeling, cryotherapy, and
dermabrasion.
- Chemical peeling: this is a method of accelerated skin peeling performed by abrasive chemicals that
accelerate the physiological exfoliation of the skin. The effects of peeling are: renewing the
superficial layers and stimulating the production of new collagen. Peels are classified based on their
ability to penetrate the skin, i.e., the depth of action they perform. Methods are superficial, medium,
and deep. The depth level depends on the type of substance, its concentration, and the application time.
The deeper the product, the more noticeable the result.
- The acids used are: alpha hydroxy acids where the most popular is glycolic acid with products
found in nature such as apples, citrus fruits, grapes, sugar beet, etc. Treatment with this acid
revitalizes the skin by stimulating it, and complications of this treatment are zero.
- Salicylic acid: used for superficial peeling and contains 25% alcohol.
- Trichloroacetic acid: this is a crystal derived from acetic acid and soluble in water. It reacts
by completely removing the epidermis in its superficial layer. TCA has an advantage because it creates a
medium-depth peel without having to use a toxic method. This method does not cause allergies, and before
treatment, the skin is prepared two weeks in advance with esphalin creams and so on.
- Phenol: this is a deep peel done with a caustic phenol-based mix.
- Dermabrasion: it is a treatment that improves skin irregularities by removing the most
superficial layers of the skin and giving it a more expansive and regular appearance. With dermabrasion,
it is also possible to correct scars and superficial wrinkles on the face and around the lips, as well
as improve scars left by acne.
Today hyperpigmentation can be effectively removed with modern laser theory. The laser is designed to
emit different waves that selectively absorb melanin pigment. The concentrated melanin is fragmented and
removed by our lymphatic system. Spots treated with multiple sections are progressively destroyed
leaving the epidermis evenly colored.
2) STUDY QUESTIONS
Why should I choose lasers rather than traditional methods to remove spots? Laser is used for these
spots as it has superior and faster effectiveness compared to the traditional peeling or dermabrasion
system. Besides this, laser has no side effects. What happens during and after treatment? The laser
produces a feeling of warmth that lasts for 15-20 minutes, accompanied by a skin rash that disappears a
few days after treatment. After laser treatment, apply an antibiotic cream for several days, followed by
sunscreen. What are the success rates for removing skin spots? While removing these spots and marks long
ago was dangerous and complicated and could leave marks, today laser therapy produces excellent results.
However, we must remember that spots can be recreated if not given due attention, especially when it
comes to sun exposure.
