Sun spots are typically nothing more than a basic skin blemish that occurs when your skin is damaged by the sun’s rays. On rare occasions, they can signify a potential health concern, but more often than not, they result in simple skin discoloration or pigment change. A change in pigment can be displeasing to some and lead to a lack of confidence in one’s appearance. That’s why the team at Brian P. Mekelburg, MD, wants to help inform our potential patients of ways they can prevent sun spots and offer sun spot treatment options. Continue reading to find out more.
Preventing Sun Spots
Using sunblock when you go outside is a perfect way to prevent sun spots, as you keep your skin from getting burned. It’s also important to reapply sunblock frequently, especially if water or sweat is present. You’ll want a sunblock that is at least 15 SPF, and the more zinc it contains, the better. From there, it’s best to protect your skin by getting out of the sun’s rays whenever possible. Wearing long clothing is an easy solution, but avoiding exposure during the peak sunlight hours between 10 am and 4 pm is the best way to prevent sun spots.
A final way you can prevent sun spots is by protecting your skin from various chemicals and artificial tanning. No tanning bed is safe for your skin, and it will increase your risk of gaining sun spots or potentially a form of skin cancer. Furthermore, if you work in any kind of chemical field, chemicals can weaken your skin’s pigment and leave you more susceptible to harm from the sun’s rays.
Treatment Options
The good news is there are numerous treatment options available for getting rid of sun spots. Laser removal, chemical peels, and bleaching cream are all meant for wider coverage sun spot removal. These treatments slightly damage the pigment in the sun spot areas forcing them to heal and regain their normal skin coloration. If you are looking to get rid of a singular sun spot, liquid nitrogen might be the best treatment option. It uses the same process, but by freezing, rather than using chemicals or a laser.
If you’d like to know more or schedule a treatment appointment for your sun spots, simply reach out to us at Brian P. Mekelburg, MD, in Los Angeles, CA, by calling (310) 659-9075.
