Dark Spots And Scars A Problem? Try These 4 Dermatology Procedures
Dark spots and scars on the skin can leave people feeling insecure. We can try covering them up with our clothes or makeup. But eventually, we’ll want to take some action to clear those blemishes up once and for all. Luckily, there are some ways you can clear up those spots and scars- it starts in your dermatologist’s office. Dermatologists have a few tricks up their sleeves to help fix your skin. But first…
Why do you get dark spots?
Dark spots – also called age spots or sunspots – is known as hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation happens when there is an overproduction of melanin on an area of your skin. There are a few triggers like excess sun exposure, hormones, and age. For women, hormonal changes during pregnancy is another common reason for dark spots. According to the AAFP, 7 in 10 pregnant women will experience dark spots on their back, hands, and even the face. Another type of dark spot, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when there is irritation or damage to the skin, usually from acne pimples, or trauma like bug bites, cuts and bruises.
What about scars?
When we get a cut, it’s often due to damage at the dermis layer. The body responds by sending collagen to help close up the wound. The result is a scar since the new skin won’t be the same texture and color as before. Scars happen due to cuts, acne, stretch marks, or injury. Scars also vary from person to person. For example, we get patients asking about keloid scars. These are raised scars when the body responds aggressively to a cut.
These spots and scars can make anyone feel self-conscious. You’ll be tempted to try creams, lotions, and at-home remedies. But a conversation with your dermatologist can help you determine the root cause and let you know of any possible remedies. These 4 treatments can help reduce the appearance of spots and scars.
1. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels have been around for centuries and are a go-to remedy for many people.
Peels contain acids and other compounds that are applied as a mask. Over the next week or so, the peel turns over the top layers of dead skin. This helps exfoliate the skin while revealing a new, smoother layer. Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of acne, wrinkles, scars, and discoloration on the face.
Chemical peels are harmful to the skin if done alone without the right process and training. Your dermatologist can perform the right peel based on your skin type and needs. A superficial peel tackles the top layer of your skin. However, there are medium-depth peels and deep peels that are stronger and more aggressive. Overall, chemical peels are one of the best ways to keep your skin spot and scar-free. One peel may not be enough. Your dermatologist will let you know the best regimen so you can have amazing skin year-round.
2. Laser Treatment
When a dermatologist brings up laser treatment, some patients may feel a bit fearful. However, laser treatment combines the power of technology and light to bring amazing results to your skin. Laser treatment works especially well for certain types of dark age spots. The laser emits a bright light targeted at the dark spot.
In turn, the dark spot absorbs the light. The result is that the dark spot cells get “lasered” off layer by layer. Laser therapy is also effective for breaking up scars. After lasering, new cells grow in its place, revealing smoother, scar-free skin.
In one treatment, laser therapy can remove many dark spots. However, for deeper damage, multiple sessions may be necessary. Laser treatment works, but it’s not without its risks. That’s why a board-certified dermatologist skilled in laser treatment in all skin types must perform the procedure. Your doctor can ensure that you’re exposed to as little risk as possible.
3. Microdermabrasion
In the past, dermabrasion was an excellent option for lighter, mild cases of hyperpigmentation. Dermabrasion uses a rapidly rotating device to treat the top layer of your skin. The device effectively “sands” your skin, removing dead skin and revealing a smoother layer. Over the years, dermabrasion evolved into the more gentle and refined microdermabrasion.
4. RF Microneedling
A favorite of Eternal Dermatology, we’ve seen time and again the excellent results our patients get from RF microneedling. Microneedling uses a device with several tiny needles that puncture the top layer of skin ever so gently. The result is a rejuvenated top layer that reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and spots. RF microneedling takes it a step further. The needles enter the skin cool, then let out radiofrequency current to slowly heat the collagen deeper in the skin, then then needles cool down and exit the skin. The skin responds by increasing collagen and production for healing.
The great thing about RF microneedling is that your dermatologist can specify the needles’ depth. This helps them to treat spots, scars, and more serious blemishes effectively. And it works. You’ll see amazing results with consistent treatment using RF microneedling.
Ready to treat those spots and scars for good?
There are many ways we develop dark spots and scars on our faces and bodies. From cuts, acne scars and sunburns- we get it all. These can leave long-term scars and damage. Using one or more of these techniques, your dermatologist can reveal what’s hidden beneath; smooth, clear, and beautiful skin.