What is a sunspot?
Sun spots are the result of a dysfunction of the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin: a substance that protects the epidermis from UV rays and that, when it appears uniformly, gives our skin a nicely tinted uniform tan.
When melanocytes are irritated by free radicals (sun exposure, pollution, stress, etc.), they do not perform properly and can, instead of producing a protective tan, create unsightly brown spots located on the most exposed areas. In addition to ultraviolet rays, genetic, hormonal or environmental factors also influence the appearance of spots on the face.
The areas most affected are those most exposed to the sun: the face, often concentrated in the nose area, the upper lip and cheekbones, the neckline and the back of the hands.
What medical treatment can I consider?
Anti-spot creams
The cosmetic solution for superficial blemishes relies on formulas rich in depigmenting agents (e.g. hydroquinone) and corrective exfoliating agents (e.g. fruit acid) to even out the complexion and improve its radiance with an overall anti-aging action. These lightening creams have little effect on lentigos that have been present on the skin for a long time.
Cryotherapy for the treatment of spots
Cryotherapy is a technique used for the treatment of superficial and isolated spots. It is a non-selective technique that performs a thermal burn of a few seconds by applying liquid nitrogen at -160° to the skin. This destroys the cells that contain the pigment on the surface of the skin.
Laser
Pigment laser for the treatment of spots
For a targeted area or a few well-defined spots on the face, the back of the hands or the neckline, the pigment laser is the treatment par excellence. Its specific wavelength allows it to send enough energy to destroy the pigment without damaging the skin. With a single session of this laser, most solar lentigos can be removed.
Find out more about laser peeling
Peeling
Peeling for the treatment of spots
For larger areas, peeling is the treatment of choice. The medical peel can reduce spots present on a large area of skin. Up to 80% of brown spots will have disappeared within 3 sessions spaced one month apart. It is therefore a treatment performed over a period of 3 months during the winter period and is effective for a radiant complexion and improved skin texture.
The first consultation is reimbursed by the basic insurance and takes place in our clinic based in Lausanne, Switzerland. Your Tóā House is here to help!
Sunspot treatment prices vary depending on the technique used and the extent of the spots.
Learn more about sun spot treatment
