You can read more about what causes hyperpigmentation and find out more about the different types of the condition in Hyperpigmentation: what causes dark spots and how can I reduce them??
Pigment spots are usually harmless although they can affect someone’s self-confidence. Certain forms, such as melanoma (a type of skin cancer), can be life-threatening. If you have any concerns about your pigment spots – if they change shape, size and color or if they become itchy and start to bleed – it’s important that you consult your doctor.
Sun protection is the most significant step you can take to help prevent age spots from forming. It’s important to remember that the sun’s rays effect skin even on cloudy days, so give your skin the daily protection it needs. As well as reducing hyperpigmentation, Eucerin Even Pigment Perfector Day SPF 30 offers effective UVA and UVB (SPF 30) protection and prevents the formation of additional sun-induced pigment spots.
Limiting the time you spend in the sun will also help to reduce the formation of age spots. Try to keep out of the sun during its most intense hours and wear protective clothing including sunhats and sunglasses whenever possible. When skin is exposed to the sun, apply and regularly reapply a sun protection product:
- with a suitable SPF level
- which has been specially formulated for your skin type and condition
You can find out more about the Eucerin range of superior sun protection products here.
The Eucerin Even Pigment Perfector range has been specially formulated to reduce age spots (and other forms of hyperpigmentation) for more even and radiant skin. All four products in the range – a day cream, night cream, serum and spot corrector – contain Thiamidol, an effective and patented ingredient that acts at the root cause of hyperpigmentation by reducing melanin production. It has been clinically and dermatologically proven to reduce dark spots and prevent their re-appearance. First results are visible after two weeks and improve continuously with regular use. Products in the Eucerin Even Pigment Perfector range can also be used to extend the benefits of dermatological treatments.
Dermatological treatments such as chemical peels and laser therapy can help to reduce age spots:
- Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution (such as an AHA) to the face, neck and hands to exfoliate skin (remove dead skin cells), stimulate the growth of new skin cells and reveal new skin. Read more about chemical peels in What are chemical peels and how do they work?
- Laser therapy has a similar effect but tends to be more precise as the dermatologist has more control over the intensity of the treatment. Laser treatments involve ‘zapping’ the affected areas with high-energy light. The mildest treatments work on the skin’s epidermis (surface layer), while more intense treatments can penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. Find out more in Laser therapy: how should I care for my skin after treatment?
Dermatologists may also prescribe and/or use hydroquinone which is still regarded as one of the most effective topical agent for reducing hyperpigmentation. It can, however, only be used for limited periods of time because, like other forms of chemical peel and laser treatment, it can irritate skin and actually cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in people with darker skin.
