Dark Spot Removal 2023 Guide

Dark spot assessment and removal is one of the most commonly carried out procedures at Bayou City.

Dark skin spots on the skin come in many guises. Moles, age spots, freckles… The list is long, and each type comes with its own particular do’s and don’ts.  

However, they all have one thing in common…

We often want to get rid of them. This is something that should be done with care—after all, we’re all aware of the dangers of skin cancer. When it comes to dark spot removal, erring on the side of caution (AKA, placing your trust in an experienced medical doctor) is key.

Moles, Age Spots, and More… The Ultimate Dark Spot Removal Guide for 2023

  • What kind of dark spots can be removed?
  • Who can remove dark spots in 2023?
  • How are dark spots removed?

What kind of dark spots can be removed?

Dark spots on the skin occur due to increased melanin production. This is usually caused by UV exposure—either from the sun or artificial tanning equipment. However, there’s increasing evidence that exposure to regular artificial lighting (LEDs, screen lights, electronic devices) can also cause them. Aging also makes the skin more susceptible, as does hormonal changes.

Dark spots are the result of uneven melanin production. We produce this to protect us from UV rays—it’s why we tan when we go in the sun. However, it can clump together, resulting in darker areas of skin pigmentation that we see as dark spots. Most of these are suitable for removal. However, it’s important to stress that if you have any area that changes significantly, itches, hurts, or bleeds, then it should be checked out for malignancy.

The type of dark spots that can be removed include:

  • Age spots (sometimes called liver spots): These can occur anywhere on the body but very typically occur on the hands.
  • Sunspots: Officially called solar lentigo and are typically seen in those who sunbathe a lot (or used to) and/or use sunbeds or tanning lights.
  • Melasma: Dark patches often found on the nose, forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. These are more common in women of childbearing age. 

Who can remove dark spots in 2023?

Dark spots can be targeted by OTC creams and products. These will usually contain vitamin C, antioxidants, and various enzymes. Other products that can help fade dark spots include those with Retinol or Retin-A.

However, the best way to remove them is by partnering with a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in such treatment. These medical professionals have access to far stronger topical products that help fade dark spots. They can also perform strategic procedures to fade or remove dark spots for good.

How are dark spots removed? 

Once your dermatologist has determined that your dark spots are suitable for removal, they have a variety of options at their disposal. Some of the most common include:

  • Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion: These use a rapidly rotating brush to provide a very deep exfoliation that removes the surface layer of skin. New skin then grows, leaving the skin more even in color.
  • Laser treatment: This targets the dark spots, breaking up the melanin, and lightening the area. You might also hear of intense pulsed light treatments, which have the same effect.
  • Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the area, destroying the melanin. This leaves the area much lighter. This is generally used for skin tags, very small dark spots, and certain types of warts.
  • Chemical peel: This removes the top layers of skin, allowing it to regrow more evenly.

Contact Bayou City for all the Info You Need About Dark Spot Removal in 2023

Dark spot assessment and removal is one of the most commonly carried out procedures at Bayou City. A mole (or dark spot) check is something we should all be doing annually—and that’s whether you want them removed or not.

Our dermatologists are passionate about skin. This includes treatments that can transform yours into the softest, plumpest, and most gorgeous possible, as well as remove any dark spots—either for cosmetic or medical reasons.

Get the best dark spot removal in 2023 guidelines with a face-to-face consultation. Head to 

https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/services for more information.