Pigmentation associated with brown spots is typically located in the top layers of the skin. For this reason, they can oftentimes be effectively treated with topical creams and lotions, lasers, dermabrasion, light chemical peels, or micro-dermabrasion. The deeper the pigmentation extends, the more difficult it is to treat. In some cases one can only obtain improvement and not total removal of the pigmented area. While the typical brown spots are more easily treated, melasma can be more difficult to treat. The following is a break down of common treatments used for brown spots.
(1) Laser Treatment
Special lasers can be used to remove brown spots. Lotions or creams may need to be applied several times a day to promote healing. In dark skinned individuals there is a risk of pigmentation change and discoloration.
(2) Intense Pulse Light Treatments (IPL)
IPL is a light device which uses a broad wavelength of light which is absorbed by the pigment in the brown spot and destroys it. Several treatments may be necessary. Frequently lotions or creams may need to be applied to promote healing.
(3) Chemical Peels
Light chemical peels using trichloracetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid can be very effective in removing sun spots by exfoliating the skin and removing the top layer of pigmented skin. Lotions or creams may need to be applied several times a day to promote the healing process and several treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results.
(4) Lightning Creams
There are numerous over–the–counter skin–lightning creams that can be utilized to help lighten brown spots. These creams contain ingredients such as kojic acid, vitamin C serum, lactic acid, azelaic acid, and glycolic acid. There also over-the-counter and prescription strength hydroquinone creams which in many cases can be very effective. However they can only be used for 4-6 weeks or there is a potential that they can actually increase pigmentation and result in a skin condition called ochronosis. This is a blue–grade pigmentation which is caused by long-term use of the hydroquinone. This pigmentation change can be permanent, so hydroquinones should be used with caution.
(5) Retinoids
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives and can stimulate production of collagen and exfoliate the epidermis (top layer of the skin), resulting in increased cell turnover. They can be effective in gradually removing brown spots, but have to use be used cautiously, as they can cause skin irritation. Milder strength retinoids are available as over-the-counter, but stronger concentrations require a prescription.
(6) Cryotherapy
In this procedure a cotton tip swab is used to apply liquid nitrogen for 5 seconds or less to the brown spot. This destroys extra pigmentation and the skin develops a lighter appearance. However, there is a slight risk of permanent scarring and discoloration.
(7) Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion sands down the superficial layer of the skin with a rapidly rotating brush. An ointment such as bacitracin or Vaseline is applied to the area several times a day, and over several days a new layer skin resurfaces the area. Temporarily, there may be redness and scabbing. The redness can take several weeks to subside.
(8) Micro-Dermabrasion
Micro-dermabrasion is a less aggressive approach then dermabrasion. Small sand-like particles are sprayed against the skin to gradually remove the mild skin blemish and create a smoother appearance. Temporarily there may be some redness and irritation. Lotions or creams may need to be reapplied several times a day to promote healing.
For more information on dealing with brown spots and skin pigmentation, we invite you to click here and visit out Skin Rejuvenation page. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation, you can call our office at 317-846-0846 or submit a form below:
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