The sun’s rays inevitably have an effect on the skin. We become particularly aware of this in summer, when the number of hours of sunshine is at its highest. Without appropriate protection, the skin can become red and burnt. But even with sun cream, the sun’s rays have an effect on our cells. To a certain extent, the body can protect itself or repair damage itself. However, if the exposure to the sun is too great, permanent changes can occur, which can manifest themselves, for example, in the form of pigment spots become noticeable. Are pigmentation marks harmless or dangerous? How can they be treated? We have the answers!
Are pigmentation spots only caused by the sun?
The most important factor influencing so-called hyperpigmentation is UV radiation. This means that spending time in the sun or in a solarium increases the risk of these skin changes. They can manifest themselves as pigmentation spots, freckles or age spots, among other things. However, solar radiation is not the only trigger. Other factors that can contribute to pigmented skin changes include
Pigment spots occur when an overproduction of the body’s own skin pigment melanin is stimulated by the factors mentioned above. In addition, existing pigment spots can become darker if they continue to be exposed to the sun without protection.
How dangerous are pigment spots?
Pigment spots are nothing unusual. Almost everyone has a spot like a birthmark or a pigment spot somewhere on their skin. Some people have more, others less. In addition, the appearance of the skin changes over the years, so that new spots may appear and others may disappear.
As a rule, pigment spots are harmless and do not need to be treated from a health point of view. Moles and liver spots should be regularly examined by a dermatologist in order to recognize and treat changes and risks at an early stage. The so-called skin cancer screening should ideally be carried out annually. Modern technology makes it possible to store moles worthy of examination in an image database and thus make a reliable comparison from year to year. This procedure is a voluntary self-payment service.
Although pigmentation marks are harmless in many cases, they can have a negative impact on appearance or be disturbing for those affected. As they are mainly located on highly visible areas of the skin (frequent contact with the sun), they are often conspicuous or difficult to conceal. In these cases, an aesthetic treatment to remove the pigment spots can be useful.
Overview: Treatments for annoying pigment spots
Pigment spots can be gently and painlessly removed in our skin center using modern laser technology. The RevLite® laser, which emits highly focused light energy with different wavelengths (1064 nm and 532 nm) into the tissue, is particularly suitable for the treatment of pigment spots. This light energy is absorbed by the skin pigment melanin and converted into heat. This “bursts” the pigments and breaks them down into countless tiny components. The residues are finally broken down by the body’s own processes. The annoying skin spot fades in this way. How many treatments are necessary until it is barely visible or no longer visible at all varies and depends on several factors. For small spots that respond well to treatment, one or two sessions may be sufficient.
Other methods that can help against pigment spots and are offered at our institute are
The sun also influences skin ageing
UV radiation not only causes pigmentation spots, but can also disrupt collagen formation or stimulate collagen breakdown. As a result, the natural supporting tissue loses support and firmness. This manifests itself above all in loss of volume and contour, wrinkles, dry skin and a sallow complexion. These changes make the face and other affected areas appear older and are therefore often a disturbing factor for those affected.
Even sun-damaged and aged skin can be rejuvenated and refreshed with minimally invasive treatments. You can find a brief overview of the options for wrinkle treatment and skin rejuvenation at our institute here: gentle Wrinkle treatment . We are of course always happy to provide you with detailed and individual advice. Give us a call or use our online booking portal to make an appointment.
Don’t forget sun protection and enjoy the summer!
last update: 29.06.2023
