There are several treatment options to minimize age spots

By Dra. Mónica Alfaro

Age Spots The spots on your skin represent changes in pigmentation caused by increased production of melanin, the substance that gives the skin its color. This darker color could be the result of photoaging or aging caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet light or hormonal changes, mainly during pregnancy.

Age spots commonly appear after 30 years of age and especially on the areas of the body that have been overexposed to sunlight, such as hands, face, arms, forehead, and shoulders. This condition can be avoided with the use of sunscreen of at least 30 SPF. Of course, it is very important to stay away from direct sun.

There are several treatment options to minimize age spots. The best and least invasive is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) which consists of the application of a specific light spectrum that destroys the excess pigment and promotes cell regeneration. The only side-effect is a temporary and slight redness.

At first, spots appear darker, but after four or five days, they start to disappear. Several sessions might be needed, but results can be seen right from the first visit.

Home care is very important to enhance treatment results. It is recommended to use lotions, serums, and sunscreens with ingredients that greatly benefit the skin, such as vitamin C, kojic acid, and Alpha Hydroxy acids, among others. The key is the disciplined and regular use of sunscreen with a high SPF content.

Remember, the skin is the largest organ in our body, and it deserves professional treatment to avoid future lesions.