Are you disappointed when you look in the mirror because you see signs of sun damage on your skin? If so, you should talk to our skin care provider about your options regarding safe and effective sun damage treatment. Understanding how these therapies can be beneficial is easier when you look at what it was about the sun exposure that caused the damage in the first place.
Many people find that, over the years, dark spots have begun to show up on their skin. Because it happens over time, these places are often referred to as age spots. However, the real cause had more to do with the UV rays of the sun than the simple fact that the years are starting to add up. Therefore, referring to them as sun spots more accurately describes their origin.
When you spent time in the sun working on your tan over the years, your skin was actually increasing the amount of melanin that it contained. Melanin is a substance that provides pigment. In response to the rays of the sun, the skin will manufacture more of it as a means of protection. More melanin then makes the skin look darker. Ideally, a smooth tan occurs when the melanin is spread evenly throughout the skin. If you repeat this process over and over, the melanin will eventually reach the point that it no longer spreads out evenly. Instead, it will gather in small patches at levels that are very concentrated. This causes those unwanted dark spots to form.
There are various sun damage treatment options available at our office that can eliminate these spots at their source by targeting the concentrated melanin. Energy from certain treatments can be focused onto the skin in these areas. Consequently, the melanin will be broken up and dispersed. The spots that were caused by the melanin will gradually go away. The end result is skin with a more even tone and an improved appearance.
Many of the treatments that are used to reduce sun damage utilize light. Lasers are among the most common. They can be used to direct highly concentrated pulses of light into the skin in ways that break up the melanin. Technological advances have allowed the energy to be directed into the deeper skin layers without destroying the surface.
Other available methods of sun damage treatment include a chemical peel and BBL treatments. Our expert at Estetika Skin & Laser Specialists can give you more detail regarding safe and effective sun damage treatment during a consultation. We have offices in Delafield, WI and Milwaukee, WI. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to learn more!
