Skin spots not only create a poor aesthetic appearance but can also appear as symptoms of some health problems. Skin spots, which occur as a result of irregular distribution or accumulation of pigments called melanin in the upper layer of the skin, are a general term used for any marks on the skin.
Sun rays, aging, hormonal changes, acne scars, and environmental factors are the main causes in the formation of these spots. Hyperpigmentation, which is especially seen more frequently in middle ages, usually occurs as a result of not consistently taking sun protection measures in early life. In this article, while answering the question of what is good for skin spots, we will also examine in detail how spots form and the most common causes.
How Are Skin Spots Formed?
The formation of skin spots begins with excessive melanin production in the skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its natural color. It is produced by cells called melanocytes. As a result of these cells working too much, dark spots appear on the skin.
While melanocytes normally work in balance, with the influence of some factors, they begin to produce excess melanin. When exposed to sunlight, melanocytes produce more melanin as a protective reaction, causing the skin to tan or darken. In light-skinned people, this can lead to freckles and skin spots. This excess pigment in the skin is called hyperpigmentation.
These spots formed as a result of hyperpigmentation can be seen in brown, black, gray, red, or pink colors. The depth of the spots is also an important factor affecting treatment. While superficial spots respond better to treatment, deep spots are more resistant to treatment. The answer to the question of what is good for skin spots also depends largely on the depth and type of the spot.
Most Common Causes
The sun is the main cause of skin spots formation. Prolonged exposure of the skin to ultraviolet rays leads to spots by increasing melanin production. Solarium use also has a similar effect.
Hormonal changes cause spot formation especially in women. During pregnancy, melasma known as "pregnancy mask" is seen in 90% of women. One in three women using birth control pills also experiences hyperpigmentation problems. During menopause, hormones, age, and sun factors come together to increase the risk of spots.
Genetic predisposition also plays an important role in spot formation. If there is a spot problem in your family, the probability of it occurring in you is also high. Some medications can also cause spotting on the skin. Heart medications, antibiotics, and blood pressure medications in particular can cause spotting by creating sun sensitivity or directly. Apart from these, age, wrong cosmetic product use, skin infections, waxing and depilation procedures, excessively oily nutrition, and smoking are also factors that can cause spots. The answer to the question of what is good for skin spots first goes through understanding these causes.
Dermatological Treatment Methods
Professional dermatological treatment is the most effective solution for deepening skin spots. Different methods are applied according to the type and depth of the spots.
- Laser treatment: Targets melanin accumulation and reduces spots. Fractional and Q-Switch lasers are effective in deep spots. Treatment usually takes several sessions. It is recommended to wait 6 weeks between sessions.
- Chemical peeling: Peels the upper layer of the skin in a controlled manner. New healthy skin formation is supported. Glycolic, salicylic, and trichloroacetic acids are used. 4-8 sessions are recommended for mild spots. 2-4 sessions are planned for medium depth spots. Sun protection after the procedure is very important.
- Mesotherapy: Vitamin C, glutathione, and hyaluronic acid are injected under the skin. Thus, cell renewal is provided. Micro channels are opened in the skin with microneedling and collagen production is increased.
- PRP treatment: Plasma is obtained from the person's blood and the skin is repaired. As a result, it should be determined by an expert dermatologist evaluation.