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EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ELIMINATING BROWN SPOTS

If you’re eager to eliminate those stubborn brown spots, the good news is that there are various solutions available. While brown spots are typically benign and pose no health risks, it’s crucial to monitor any that change in color, size, or texture and to visit your dermatologist regularly. Although treatment for benign spots isn’t necessary, their removal or fading can be both cosmetically and psychologically rewarding. After all, who wouldn’t want a clearer, more even skin tone?

What should I know about spots?

Brown spots, also known as age spots, liver spots, solar lentigines, or sun spots, are flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation that vary in size. Typically gray, tan, brown, or black, these spots appear on areas of the skin that have received the most sun exposure over the years, such as the face, backs of hands, tops of feet, forearms, shoulders, and upper back. They can affect anyone, regardless of sex or race; however, brown spots are more common in individuals with fair skin, a history of frequent sun exposure, regular tanning bed use, and those over 40 years of age.

What causes spots?

Brown spots are caused by overactive pigment cells known as melanocytes. Ultraviolet (UV) light accelerates the production of melanin, the skin pigment responsible for a tan or darker skin. After years of UV exposure, melanin can clump together or be produced in high concentrations, leading to the appearance of brown spots.

There are three main types of benign skin pigmentation resulting from overactive melanocytes: freckles, solar lentigines, and melasma.

FRECKLES

Freckles can be seen as a genetic gift from Mother Nature. These small, flat spots range in color from pale to dark brown and result from an overproduction of melanin in response to UV light exposure. Typically, real freckles are found on younger skin, especially in children, and are most common among individuals with red hair and fair skin that burns easily. They tend to be more noticeable in sun-exposed areas during the summer months and often fade during the winter season.

SOLAR LENTIGINES

Solar lentigines, commonly known as age spots, are dark patches that develop from prolonged sun exposure and are generally harmless. These flat, actinic keratosis lesions can appear yellowish, gray, or light brown, with clearly defined edges. Some may have a dry or slightly scaly texture. Unlike freckles, which are smaller and more diffuse, lentigines are larger and more distinct, typically found on areas such as the face, hands, and chest, accumulating over time due to sun exposure. Unlike freckles, they do not fade in winter and can occur anywhere on the body; they are usually benign.

On the other hand, actinic keratosis represents another form of sun damage that may have the potential to become cancerous. These spots are flat or slightly raised, reddish-brown, and have a more abrasive appearance, often with a scaly surface. Surprisingly, nearly 60 million Americans are affected by this type of sun damage to their skin.

A Woods Lamp (black light) evaluation allows us to detect cumulative skin damage before it becomes visible to the naked eye. It can be eye-opening to observe the extent of sun damage that has already occurred. Since there is always a chance that new lesions may develop in the future, the best preventive measures include avoiding sun exposure, using a broad-spectrum high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing and hats.

MELASMA

If you have a Mediterranean-type olive complexion or are of Latin, Asian, or Middle Eastern descent, you are more likely to develop melasma. This condition manifests as large dark patches of pigmentation caused by overactive melanocytes, often appearing as mask-like areas on the cheeks, temples, above the upper lip, and/or forehead. Melasma is believed to be influenced by excessive or repeated sun exposure, as well as hormonal changes. It can develop during the use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or pregnancy, which is why it is sometimes referred to as a “pregnancy mask.” While melasma may be visually unappealing, it is not dangerous and does not cause any physical discomfort.

Another type of brown spot is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs as a result of skin injury. PIH is more common in individuals with darker skin tones and appears as patches triggered by inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema, or trauma. After the initial condition resolves, dark spots may remain, and their fading over time can vary from person to person.

Words of caution and when you should see a doctor

Another type of brown spot is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs as a result of injury to the skin. PIH is more prevalent among individuals with darker skin tones and manifests as patches triggered by inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema, or trauma. After the initial skin condition resolves, dark spots may remain, and their tendency to fade over time can vary from person to person.

What spots can be treated? 

Brown spots, including liver spots, freckles, solar lentigines, and other benign pigmented lesions that develop after years of sun exposure, can be removed or faded from almost any area of your body. Conditions such as melasma, sun-related brown spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also be effectively treated. However, actinic keratoses and any abnormal-looking lesions should be evaluated and treated by a physician.

Types of spot treatments

Since the pigment is located at the base of the epidermis—the outermost layer of skin—any treatments aimed at lightening brown spots must penetrate this layer effectively.

Medications and prescription lightening creams containing hydroquinone or kojic acid (pigment-bleaching agents) can be used alone or in combination with retinoids (like tretinoin) and mild steroids to gradually fade spots over several months. However, these treatments may cause temporary side effects, including itching, redness, burning, or dryness. It’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during treatment.

FotoFacial or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments emit a range of light waves that pass through the skin to target and destroy melanin, breaking up the spots without damaging the skin’s surface. Typically, two to three sessions are required, and after treatment, spots may appear like coffee ground speckles that flake off and gradually fade over several weeks or months. It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure for at least four weeks before treatment and to use sun protection liberally afterward to ensure optimal results.

Cryotherapy, or freezing, destroys the excess pigment by applying liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent to the spots. This treatment is quick but can be painful, and afterward, there may be some discomfort, blistering, or temporary redness and swelling. As the area heals, the skin may appear lighter. Cryotherapy is generally used for single brown spots or small groupings, but it carries a slight risk of permanent darkening of a spot (PIH), lightening of surrounding skin, or scarring.

Chemical peels involve applying an acid that removes the outer layer of skin to allow new skin to grow in its place. Several treatments may be necessary before seeing results, and strong sun protection is advised following the procedure. Temporary redness is common, with a slight risk of permanent changes in skin color.

Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive option that smooths the outer layers of skin using inert crystals to exfoliate. This treatment requires multiple sessions over several months to achieve desired results and is not recommended for those with rosacea or small red veins on the face. After microdermabrasion, mild redness may appear but typically resolves within a few hours, with flaky skin for three to four days. It can be effective, especially when combined with chemical peels.

Non-ablative laser spot removals destroy melanocytes without harming the skin’s surface. At YouBaby Skin Spa, we use a picosecond laser and PICO Genesis Spot treatments, which deliver light deep into the skin at a trillionth of a second. This breaks up melanocytes, allowing them to be eliminated by the body’s lymphatic system. The treated area may darken, resemble bruising, or form a crust for a few days, but fades over the following weeks, improving both the spots and the skin’s texture. Several treatments are recommended to build upon the results of previous sessions as the skin regenerates collagen and absorbs the debris.

Ablative laser resurfacing is a more aggressive treatment that removes sun-damaged cells to refresh the skin and fade spots. This method removes the outermost layer of skin, allowing new skin to grow back, but requires considerable recovery time and healing. One or two treatments can effectively address age spots quickly.

Prevention

To help prevent the reappearance of brown spots and the formation of new ones after treatment, follow these tips to limit your sun exposure:

  1. Avoid the Sun Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
    The sun’s rays are most intense during this time, so try to schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later in the day.
  2. Use Sunscreen.
    Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Be sure to apply it generously and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
  3. Cover Up.
    Wear tightly woven clothing that covers your arms and legs, along with a broad-brimmed hat, which offers better protection than a baseball cap or golf visor. Consider clothing specifically designed for sun protection, labeled with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 40 to 50 for optimal safety.
  4. Never Use Tanning Beds.
    Avoid tanning beds, as they can contribute to skin damage and increase the risk of developing new brown spots.

CONCLUSION

Spot removal is not a new concept, and the type of treatment varies, offering different outcomes. In some cases, spots may never be completely eliminated but can fade significantly, becoming much lighter. Proper home care is essential after any removal treatment to maximize your results. Alongside sunscreen, common aftercare typically includes a tyrosinase inhibitor (which targets the enzyme responsible for melanin formation) and a lightening agent.

We design an individualized program tailored to your skin type, the specific spots you have, and the treatment administered. Share your goals with us, and we will guide you to the appropriate treatment options.

How Long Do Highlights Last? – Expert Advice

If you’re considering getting highlights for the first time or have had them before, one question that may come to mind is how long do highlights last? The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of highlights you get, your hair’s natural color and texture, and how well you take care of your hair after the coloring process. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of highlights, including their lifespan, maintenance, and more.

What Are Highlights?

Highlights are a popular hair coloring technique that involves adding lighter shades to specific sections of your hair. This technique is used to create contrast and dimension, giving your hair a multi-dimensional and sun-kissed appearance. Highlights are typically applied to sections of hair that frame the face or are strategically placed throughout the hair to mimic the natural way the sun would lighten your hair over time.

The process of getting highlights involves bleaching or lightening certain sections of your hair to a shade lighter than your natural or base color. This contrast between the lighter and darker tones adds depth and movement to your hair, creating a visually interesting and vibrant look. Highlights can vary in intensity, from subtle and natural-looking to bold and dramatic, depending on the desired outcome.

Types of Highlights and Their Lifespan

Balayage

Balayage is a French technique where the hairstylist hand-paints highlights onto the hair. This method creates a natural-looking, sun-kissed effect, perfect for low-maintenance hairstyles. Balayage highlights can last anywhere from three to six months, depending on the shade and texture of your hair.

Foil Highlights

Foil highlights use foils to separate and lighten strands of hair. They tend to give a bolder, more noticeable contrast than balayage highlights. Foil highlights typically last anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on your hair’s growth rate and the speed at which your hair color fades.

Ombre

Ombre involves a gradual fade from one color to another, with the lighter shade starting at the mid-shaft and gradually getting lighter towards the ends. Ombre highlights can last up to six months or longer, depending on how well you maintain them.

Sombré

Sombré highlights are similar to ombre highlights but create a softer, subtler transition between colors. Sombré highlights can last anywhere from six to twelve months, depending on your hair texture and how frequently you wash your hair.

Babylights

Babylights are tiny, subtle highlights that mimic the natural sun-kissed highlights that babies have. They can last up to eight weeks or longer, depending on your hair growth rate and how much contrast you have between your natural hair color and the highlights.

reasons why hair color fades over time

  • Washing Frequency: Each time you shampoo, some of the color will be washed out, causing the color to fade over time. Consider washing your hair less frequently or using color-safe dry shampoos between washes.
  • Shampoo Ingredients: Many traditional shampoos contain sulfates, which are strong cleansing agents that can strip away color. 
  • Hot Water: Washing your hair with hot water can open the hair cuticles, allowing the color molecules to escape more easily. 
  • UV Exposure: Sunlight contains UV rays that can break down the chemical bonds in hair color molecules. This leads to color fading and a loss of vibrancy. 
  • Heat Styling: Excessive use of heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can weaken the hair’s cuticle structure. 
  • Chlorine and Saltwater: Chlorine in swimming pools and salt in ocean water can both strip away color molecules from the hair. These substances can be particularly damaging to colored hair, causing the color to fade and become dull. 
  • Hair Health: Hair that is damaged, dry, or porous has a harder time holding onto color. When the hair’s cuticle is compromised due to damage, color molecules can escape more easily. 
  • Color Choice: Lighter shades tend to fade more subtly, while vibrant or bold colors can become more muted as they fade. 

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Highlights

Now that you know the lifespan of different types of highlights let’s talk about how to maintain them so they last as long as possible. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind:

Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner

Using a color-safe shampoo and conditioner is essential for preserving the life of your highlights. Regular shampoos tend to strip the hair of its natural oils, which can cause the color to fade faster. Look for products specifically designed for color-treated hair, and avoid washing your hair every day.

Avoid Heat Styling Tools

Heat styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage your hair and cause your highlights to fade faster. Try to air-dry your hair as much as possible and limit your use of heat styling tools when you do need to style your hair.

Protect Your Hair from UV Rays

Direct sunlight can fade your hair color over time, so it’s important to protect your hair from UV rays. Wearing a hat or using a UV-protectant spray can help prevent color fading caused by sun exposure.

Get Regular Touch-Ups

Getting regular touch-ups is crucial for maintaining your vibrant highlights. Depending on the type of highlights you have, you may need to schedule an appointment every few weeks or months.

Don’t Overwash Your Hair

Washing your hair too often can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause your highlights to fade faster. Try to space out your hair washes as much as possible, and use dry shampoo in between washes to keep your hair looking fresh and clean.

FAQs

  1. Can I dye my hair after getting highlights? Yes, you can dye your hair after getting highlights, but it’s important to wait at least two weeks after the highlight appointment. Failing to do so can cause your hair to become dry and brittle, which can lead to breakage and damage.
  2. Is it possible to add highlights to naturally dark hair? Yes, it’s possible to add highlights to naturally dark hair. However, it may take longer to achieve the desired result, and you may need to have multiple appointments to get the look you want.
  3. How long does the highlight appointment take? The length of the highlight appointment depends on the type of highlights you’re getting and your hairstylist’s skill level. Generally, you can expect the appointment to last anywhere from one to four hours.
  4. Do highlights damage your hair? Highlights don’t necessarily damage your hair, but they can cause some dryness and breakage if you don’t care for your hair properly after the coloring process. 
  5. Can I get highlights if I have curly hair? Yes, you can get highlights if you have curly hair. But, you should find a hairstylist who has experience working with curly hair so they can create a look that complements your natural texture instead of working against it.

Final Thoughts

So, how long do highlights last? The answer depends on many factors, including the type of highlights, your hair color and texture, and how well you care for your hair after the coloring process. By following the maintenance tips outlined in this article, you can help your highlights last as long as possible and keep your locks looking vibrant and healthy.

Remember to use color-safe products, limit heat styling tools, protect your hair from UV rays, schedule regular touch-ups, and avoid overwashing your hair. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your gorgeous highlights for months to come.