Dark spots and how to treat them
As summer approaches its final stretch, many people start to notice dark spots on their skin – a common sign of hyperpigmentation. This condition occurs when the skin produces an excess or irregular amount of melanin, leading to darker patches from factors such as sun exposure, aging or medications.
Treatment options for hyperpigmentation are vast. Unfortunately, for hyperpigmentation, it can be difficult to diagnose exactly why the person is having these pigmentation changes. Many times, it will require several different agents and approaches, over the course of several months.
Managing hyperpigmentation often begins with over-the-counter skincare products, such as antioxidants, vitamin C and niacinamide, which are widely available at pharmacies. These ingredients help reduce oxidative stress and promote skin renewal. However, if these products do not achieve the desired results, more potent therapies might be necessary.
Prescription-grade products or med spa treatments with higher concentrations of active ingredients, are often the next step, by escalating into more therapies, such as retinoids. These treatments can more effectively address stubborn pigmentation issues.
For cases that remain resistant to these methods, Broadband Light (BBL) therapy offers a promising solution. BBL therapy uses visible light to target pigmentary changes. The treatment is a light-based therapy used to treat hyperpigmentation.
The procedure involves applying bright light pulses to the skin, which heats up melanin and causes it to fragment. The fragmented melanin is then either absorbed by the body or shed with dead skin cells.
While BBL is not a substitute for daily skincare, it can significantly enhance results for those struggling with persistent pigmentation issues. If struggling with pigmentary concerns, despite maximizing home therapies, BBL can drastically improve treatment efficacy.
During the procedure, protective eyewear is used and multiple bright light pulses are directed at the affected areas. The sensation is often compared to a rubber band snap – brief and manageable. A lot of times, a topical anesthetic is administered to numb the skin, which makes BBL even more tolerable.
Post-treatment, patients may experience redness and a warm sensation similar to a sunburn. Some swelling or bruising may occur, but it usually resolves within a few days, allowing patients to resume normal activities quickly.
BBL is also effective for treating age spots, melasma and pigmentation, related to hormones or sun exposure. By using the BBL, the pigment is pulled off the skin, addressing both brown melanin and red vascular changes. This comprehensive approach improves overall skin complexion, making it appear brighter and more even.
