Sun Damage
The sun can be hard on the skin, even when we don’t realize it. The most common problem from sun damage is unwanted pigmentation issues like brown spots or splotchy skin. Various adoptions are available that can correct sun damage.
As a dermatology clinic, we are huge proponents of using sunscreen. Skin cancer is terribly common, and sunscreen goes a long way in preventing skin cancer. But sun damage is another common concern that comes from not protecting yourself from the sun.
Dark spots can form from sun damage. This is usually the result of years of sun exposure. The formal name for this is spotted hyper pigmentation. Nobody wants to have blotchy skin! In light skinned individuals, these dark spots from sun damage often only affect the top layer of skin. Topical creams or ointments can be applied to improve appearance.
What treatments are available for sun damage?
- Topical Therapy
Dr. Myers may recommend hydroquinone or retinol. Some of these options are over-the-counter. - Chemical Peels
Chemical peels might be used in combination with topical treatment, to further improve the appearance of a patient’s skin. - Lasers
Various laser treatments can be excellent at improving pigmentation issues in a safe way.
What is melasma?
Melasma is a patchy brown discoloration that occurs on the face due to sun exposure. It often occurs in people with darker skin tones. It often shows up during pregnancy.
This condition can be difficult to treat because it involves deeper layers of the skin. The treatments above may be used for melasma, but Dr. Myers will consult patients on an individualized approach.
