Age spots usually occur in areas that are exposed to the sun like the face. Also known as liver spots, they typically appear as flat brown, grey or black spots and vary in sizes. Age spots are more common in older adults.
Sun damage is the most common cause, but other possible causes include various forms of ultraviolet (UV) light exposure such as tanning beds. These spots are likely to appear on the face, back of hands, forearms, shoulders and other areas that are frequently exposed to the sun.
Overexposure to the sun can cause a myriad of skin complications including cancer. Age spots are generally harmless but if you feel that something is not right; schedule an appointment with your doctor to get a more precise diagnosis.
Long-term sun or to UV light exposure being a primary cause means age spots develop gradually over time. It is the sudden discovery that usually takes someone aback. So always try to be aware of the changes that are happening to your skin.
Freckles commonly appear in areas that are exposed to the sun and come in the form of small brown spots. While they are generally harmless, freckles are signs of sun damage on the skin.
Long-term sun exposure is commonly the cause, and this also includes exposure to other forms of ultraviolet (UV) light. People who are fair-skinned are generally more susceptible to UV rays and more likely to develop freckles. Another possible cause could also be genetics.
Freckles are spots that contain melanin, a pigment protein. This protein is made by cells known as melanocytes, produced when skin is exposed to UV light as a form of defence against its harmful effects. In some people, these melanocytes are evenly spread out and result in a tanned appearance. People with fair skin, however, experience a heavy deposit of melanin in one spot in the skin and these spots are known as freckles.
Freckles do not appear overnight. It is the result of long-term exposure to UV light such as from the sun or tanning beds. Genetics also play a role in their appearance, and people who have fair skin are more likely to develop freckles.
Melasma is a common skin problem often appearing in the form of grey/brown patches on the skin. These patches are usually found on parts of the face like the cheeks, forehead and chin among others. It can also appear in areas where sun exposure is high and frequent.
Sun exposure can cause melisma especially among those with a genetic predisposition to the condition. Birth control pills, hormone therapy and even anti-seizure medications can also trigger the condition. In women, pregnancy is also a possible cause.
Melasma or chloasma as its known during pregnancy occurs as a result of hormonal changes to the body. During this period, there is an increase in melanin production, but it is temporary. Also known as the “mask of pregnancy”, these dark patches typically appear on the face around the nose, upper lip, cheekbones and forehead in the shape of a mask.
Birth control pills and hormone therapy which affect estrogen and progesterone levels can lead to melasma.
It is thought that stress results in the overproduction of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) causing melasma. Those with thyroid disease also have an increased chance of developing the condition. Rare causes include allergic reaction to medications and cosmetics.
Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) is the underlying hormone responsible for melasma. It is responsible for the darkening of the skin.
Pigmentation refers to the natural colour, in this case, of skin. When it is more pronounced or uneven; the resulting issue is known as hyperpigmentation.
Melanin is what gives our skin colour. The loss of skin pigmentation is known as vitiligo. This happens when melanocytes, the cells that make pigment, are destroyed.
Naturally being by default as the skin most exposed to the sun, our face tends to be the most susceptible to hyperpigmentation. This usually results in age spots.
PICO Pigmentation Laser treatment with PICOCARE 450 is an FDA-approved, picosecond laser. This means an increase in power and shortening of pulses which result in lesser downtime and improved safety. It is versatile and effective on all skin types and treats a range of hyperpigmentation skin problems including age spots, freckles and melasma.
The primary factors that contribute to uneven skin tone are hyperpigmentation, sun spots, hormones, discolouration and acne scarring. Excessive melanin or pigment in the skin due to sun exposure creates freckles and, eventually, isolated dark spots.
Sun exposure
Skin regularly exposed to UV light will result in brown spots and uneven skin tone. This is due to the overproduction of melanin (produced to help protect the skin against sun damage and UV light).
Pollution
City living exposes you to traffic-related air pollution. The particles and gasses can penetrate the skin and lead to the facial brown spots formation.
Hormones
Melasma is hormone-related hyperpigmentation caused by increased hormone stimulation. It occurs in pregnant women or in those who are taking contraceptives. Melasma can also happen as a reaction to make-up products or certain medications.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
A darkening of the skin as a result of scarring, caused by either acne lesions or skin injury.
An uneven skin tone, called hyperpigmentation, is an uneven skin darkening, causes by melanin overproduction. Acne lesions or skin injury can also cause skin darkening.
Looking good is more than just about the clothes we wear. The state and health of our skin is perhaps of utmost and primary importance. A healthy glowing skin is arguably the Holy Grail for many.
With the array of skin treatments available like PICO Clear Skin Laser, Medical Grade Skin Peel, Microdermabrasion Skin Renewal, and Spectra Laser Peel, now you can slip into a beautiful skin and step out to a brand new you!
Common factors that cause dull skin include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, dehydration and poor diet. Basically, any triggers that deprive your skin of much-needed oxygen and nutrients will result in dull skin tone. Lack of exfoliation – the sloughing off of dead skin cells – can also cause dull skin.
The problem with dull skin is more of the appearance, rather than the skin itself. Skin dullness can be attributed to various factors. Skincare professionals use “dullness” as a blanket term to describe a decrease of skin rosiness, the corresponding increase of yellowness, and the dark look caused by shadows over uneven skin surfaces.
A dull complexion is basically a complexion that has lost its liveliness and brightness. In normal circumstances, the skin makes us of moisture and oil to retain the skin in a smooth and bright state.
The difference between matte and dewy skin has to do with the finish that the skin leaves; the amount of shine and radiance. Matte skin is void of any excess oil. It has a more velvety finish that pulls light inward, often with a powdery texture. A dewy skin has an almost moist appearance.
Lack of sleep and stress are the two ultimate reasons why the skin is lacklustre and dull. When you're tired and stressed, your skin loses collagen.
Sleeping also allows our skin to reboot by tightening up. Stress, which is linked with lack of sleep, is what really beats you up with the ugly stick, as it has a huge effect on your skin.
Constant exposure to strong sunlight, lack of iron, allergies and aging are the few factors that cause dull, tired and stressed skin. Aging is also the cause of sagging and drooping skin around the eye area. A quick solution could be antihistamine or to add red meat to your diet. For a long-term solution, consult a doctor to discover the reason behind your tired appearance.
Medical Grade Skin Peel, Microdermabrasion Skin Renewal, and Spectra Laser Peel can help to revive dull skin.