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.

Xeomin Injections: Before and After Results

A form of injectable neurotoxin called Xeomin may aid in minimizing wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It works by calming the facial muscles that are responsible for these wrinkles, giving the skin a smoother, younger look. The advantages of xeomin injections, what to anticipate before and after treatment, and how many units of xeomin are commonly required for different parts of the face will all be covered in this article.

What are Xeomin Injections?

A kind of botulinum toxin called Xeomin is used to address facial wrinkles and fine lines. While it shares the same germs as Botox and Dysport, it has several distinctive qualities that make it a desirable choice for people seeking a natural-looking outcome.

One of xeomin’s key benefits is that it just has one component, as opposed to other injectables that can also include proteins or additives that might result in an allergic response or lessen the efficiency of the medication. Xeomin may have a longer half-life than certain other injectables because of its purity.

How do Xeomin Injections Work?

Xeomin works by preventing the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is necessary for the contraction of the muscles of our face. These muscles may get trapped in a constricted condition after prolonged usage, which will result in wrinkles and fine lines.

Xeomin injections normally last between four and six months, however this might vary from person to person. Due to Xeomin’s unique composition, which contains less proteins than other botulinum toxins, this time range is possible. As a result, there is less chance of antibodies forming over time and reducing the treatment’s efficacy.

It’s crucial to remember that although Xeomin’s effects continue for a long time, they are not irreversible. Wrinkles and lines could resurface as the muscles progressively restore their functionality. However, patients may retain a more young and refreshed look with regular treatments every few months.

The dose, the site of injection, and the patient’s metabolism are other variables that may have an impact on how long Xeomin injections last. It is advised to speak with a qualified and experienced medical specialist who can customize the treatment plan to match your unique requirements and objectives in order to get the most out of your Xeomin treatments.

Xeomin Before and After: Overall Results

In general, people who desire to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on their face may get outstanding results with xeomin injections. There are few adverse effects and little recovery time associated with the procedure. After therapy, patients may usually resume their regular activities right away.

Xeomin for Eyes Before and After

Around the eyes is one region of the face where xeomin injections may be extremely beneficial. Many individuals worry about crow’s feet, or the small creases that appear at the corners of their eyes when they smile or squint. Injections of Xeomin may help to reduce these wrinkles and produce a more youthful look around the eyes.

Your doctor will assess the state of your skin and talk with you about your objectives before starting any treatments. Additionally, they could snap pictures for later usage as a reference. During the treatment, a very little needle will be used to inject xeomin straight into the muscles surrounding your eyes. The majority of patients say they just slightly felt a pinch or sting during the injection procedure.

You can feel a little amount of edema or redness around the injection sites after therapy. These adverse effects, however, often go away within a few hours to a few days. Within a few days, you ought to begin to see the benefits of the xeomin, with the full effects appearing in around two weeks.

Xeomin for Lips Before and After

The region around the lips is another location where xeomin injections work well. Our lips may thin out and lose definition as we get older, making us seem older and less youthful. Lip Xeomin injections may help plump them up and give them a more youthful contour.

Before beginning treatment, your doctor will assess the state of your lips and talk with you about your expectations. Additionally, they could snap pictures for later usage as a reference. During the operation, a very little needle will be used to inject xeomin straight into the muscles around your lips. The majority of patients say they just slightly felt a pinch or sting during the injection procedure.

You can feel a little amount of edema or redness around the injection sites after therapy. These adverse effects, however, often go away within a few hours to a few days. Within a few days, you ought to begin to see the benefits of the xeomin, with the full effects appearing in around two weeks.

Xeomin for Forehead Before and After 

Another region of the face where xeomin injections work well is the forehead. We may seem older and more exhausted than we really are due to fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead. These lines may be softerened and made to seem younger using Xeomin injections.

Your doctor will assess the state of your skin and talk with you about your objectives before starting any treatments. Additionally, they could snap pictures for later usage as a reference. During the operation, a very little needle will be used to inject xeomin straight into the muscles of your forehead. The majority of patients say they just slightly felt a pinch or sting during the injection procedure.

You can feel a little amount of edema or redness around the injection sites after therapy. These adverse effects, however, often go away within a few hours to a few days. Within a few days, you ought to begin to see the benefits of the xeomin, with the full effects appearing in around two weeks.

How Many Units of Xeomin for Forehead?

Depending on the patient’s demands and the severity of the wrinkles, a different number of units of xeomin may be required for the forehead. For the forehead, 10–20 units of xeomin are often used. However, depending on their assessment of your skin and your treatment objectives, your doctor will choose the right dosage.

While xeomin injections may provide outstanding results, it is crucial to remember that they are not a long-term fix for fine lines and wrinkles. To keep the benefits going, you will need to repeat the injections every few months.

Xeomin vs. Botox

Xeomin was shown to be as effective as Botox Cosmetic in a research that examined the two as treatments for moderate-to-severe frown lines over a 4 month period. In addition, they were similar in terms of how well they were tolerated and how long their effects persisted.

Both Xeomin and Botox are neurotoxins that may be injected and are often used to treat moderate-to-severe frown lines. Both function by preventing nerve impulses from reaching the muscles, which relaxes them and reduces wrinkles. Despite having a similar purpose, the two products’ variances might make them less helpful for certain people.

The process by which Xeomin and Botox are created is one of their primary distinctions. Botulinum toxin type A is available in Xeomin in a “naked” version that simply contains the active component and no proteins or other fillers. In contrast, the complexing proteins used to create Botox enclose and protect the active component. Since Xeomin doesn’t contain any proteins, some experts speculate that for certain people, it may be somewhat more successful than Botox due to a lower chance of treatment-interfering antibodies.

Other research, however, hasn’t shown any significant differences in the two drugs’ efficacy. For instance, a clinical trial comparing Xeomin and Botox as treatments for glabellar lines (the vertical wrinkles between the eyebrows) that was published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology discovered that both products were equally effective at reducing the severity of wrinkles and enhancing patient satisfaction.

Xeomin and Botox are equivalent in terms of their safety and tolerability. Both products are often well accepted, with adverse effects such bruising, swelling, and localized discomfort being frequent but transient. Similar to each other, both products’ effects endure for around 3 to 4 months until retreatment is required.

Overall, both Xeomin and Botox are safe and effective alternatives for treating moderate-to-severe frown lines, while there may be modest variations in efficacy for certain people. To find out which product is most appropriate for your unique requirements and objectives, it’s crucial to speak with a trained healthcare professional.

Conclusion

For people who desire to lessen the look of fine lines and wrinkles on their face, Xeomin injections may provide remarkable results. The procedure requires little to no downtime, has few side effects, and produces highly natural-looking results. After therapy, patients may usually resume their regular activities right away. Consult a trained specialist if you’re considering getting xeomin injections to find out whether this procedure is good for you.

FAQs

  1. Injections of xeomin are safe? Yes, when given by a trained professional, xeomin injections are usually regarded as safe. However, there are hazards associated with every medical operation. Prior to receiving treatment, be careful to express any concerns you may have with your practitioner.
  2. What is the duration of xeomin injections? Generally, the benefits of xeomin injections continue for three to six months.
  3. Will xeomin injections have any negative side effects? Following therapy, some individuals may have minor bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection sites. Most of the time, these side effects go away within a few hours to a few days.
  4. How many xeomin units are required for the lips? The amount of xeomin required for the lips might vary based on the requirements of each patient. For lip injections, 4–8 units of xeomin are often utilized.
  5. How long does it take for xeomin injections to produce results? The benefits of xeomin usually begin to be felt by patients within a few days, with the full extent of the effects appearing after approximately two weeks.