Sun Damage

As we age, most of us will start to notice brown or red spots appear on our skin. These spots are damage from the sun, and affect many people in their middle age or older. Younger people often don’t have sun spots, so they are a tell-tale sign of the cumulative effects of sun over time.

What are sun spots?

Exposure to the sun can cause damage in the long run, as UV rays penetrate our skin and cause melanin production. Melanin is responsible for our skin’s pigmentation, and UV rays can cause excess melanin as the skin tries to protect itself from potentially harmful rays. Many people neglect sunscreen in their daily skin care regimen, and pay the price later as dark spots known as sun spots start becoming visible and accumulating on the skin. Sun spots can be brown or red, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Sun spots can potentially be cancerous, so it’s important to get any unusual spots or growths checked out by an expert dermatologist like Dr. Melda Isaacor Dr. Daniel Yanes in Washington DC. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but it is also one of the most easily treatable if caught early.

Sun damage can be caused by both natural sunlight and tanning beds, so it is important to be aware of the risks you’re taking if you tan regularly or stay out in the sun for long periods of time. Sun spots don’t appear instantaneously, so many people don’t realize that they haven’t been protecting their skin properly until it’s too late.

Treatments

There are a variety of treatments available that have been shown to be effective in treating sun spots. Among these are laser treatments, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion and topical physician grade skin care products. Dr. Isaac and Dr. Yanes offer many sun spot treatments at the MI Skin Dermatology Center in Washington, DC.

Laser treatments

Laser treatments range from aggressive CO2 skin resurfacing to gentler BBL treatments. The right type of laser for your individual concerns can be decided during your consultation. Each laser has its own benefits and drawbacks, and should be carefully selected depending on the individual.

Laser treatments which can help with this condition include:

• Fractional CO2 & UltraClear® Laser
• Fraxel
• BroadBand Light (BBL)
• Derma V
• Photodynamic Therapy

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are another popular option for reducing the appearance of sun spots. Chemical peels safely and effectively remove dead skin cells, leading to a fresh and rejuvenated appearance. Depending on what type of peel is done, the number of sessions required and the amount of recovery time needed will vary. Your provider will determine which type of peel is right for you after assessing your skin condition and desired results.

Microdermabrasion

MI Skin Dermatology in Washington DC offers Dermasweep, a revolutionary microdermabrasion device that utilizes a vacuum pump and bristles for a safe and efficient deep exfoliation of the skin. Dermasweep has had proven effects on sun damaged skin, and requires no downtime. Dermasweep can be used in combination with other treatments such as a chemical peel for optimal results.

Microneedling

Microneedling with the Collagen PIN uses small needles to create microscopic injuries to the skin in a fractional pattern, thus stimulating skin regrowth and collagen production. Microneedling can be used to create a more even skin tone and texture, gradually reducing the appearance of sun damage. Microneedling is safe and effective, and virtually pain-free due to the use of a topical anesthetic on the treated areas, and skin-brightening topical solutions can be used more effectively following a microneedling treatment because the needling creates tiny channels into which skin care products can be more deeply absorbed.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

If you have started to notice sun spots appearing on your skin, you may be a good candidate for one of these sun spot treatments. To find out more information about sun spots and their treatment options, contact Dr. Isaac or Dr. Yanes at the MI Skin Dermatology Center in Washington DC. To make your appointment today, call (202) 393-7546!