If you’ve developed those dreaded brown liver spots (solar lentigos), don’t fear: we can treat sun spots effectively with various treatments.
Yes, sadly all
those beach days and sports activities in our youth come to haunt us as we get
older. Solar lentigos, also known as liver spots, appear out of the blue. They form
as brown macules due to an over-production of melanin – directly related to excessive
sun exposure. They also happen to increase in number over the years.
Sun spots generally are smooth and flat. But raised and rough spots should be assessed by a dermatologist as they may be a precursor to cancer. Affected areas usually are the face, chest, legs, arms and dorsal hands.
Alas, white spots
also occur. These are hypopigmented lesions. That means the sun has stripped
the skin of its pigment. White spots can’t be reversed.
TREATING
LENTIGOS
Sun protection
Apply sun block twice daily. Sun block should be applied 30 minutes before going outside. If you’ve been swimming, reapply your sun block immediately. Wear protective clothing: long sleeves and a wide brimmed hat. Try to avoid the sun during the peak times of 10am to 4pm.
Topical lightening creams
Some topical
lightening creams are available over the counter. Make sure it contains kojic
acid, liquorice, mulberry extract and vitamin C. Stronger creams containing
hydroquinone and retinol need a doctor’s prescription.
Liquid nitrogen
Liquid nitrogen is a quick and effective treatment for rough and raised sun spots. But be advised: the treatment may leave a white mark.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels are effective treatments when done in winter. Gentle fruit acid peels will lighten sun spots and even out the skin colour after a few treatments.
Laser therapy
We use a
variety of lasers on smooth, flat sun spots. The laser will shatter the melanin
production and initially the sun spots will darken before fading. This should
also be done in winter.
Topical creams
We also stock topical creams which may lighten sun spots. These are: Neostrata’s Enlighten Range; Skin Tech’s Blending Cream and Atrofillin; Obagi’s Pro C Serum, Exoderm, Exoderm Forte and Blend FX; Zone’s Day and Night Creams; and Avéne’s D-Pigment Cream.
Sun blocks
Recommended
sunscreen brands are: Heliocare, Photoderm, Skin Tech Melablock, Obagi
Professional C and Avéne.
