Skin discoloration is a common concern among many women and men and we know that after a summer in the sun, this can lead to issues with the surface of your skin, specifically dark spots. The good news is that there are a number of dark spot treatments in Northern VA that can diminish hyperpigmentation and restore a clear, even complexion with little to no down time!
Here are five options to consider, depending on the depth, pigmentation, and how long you’ve had your dark spots.
1. Hydroquinone
For women and men considering dark spot treatments, hydroquinone is often recommended as the first line of defense. It is a topical cream that contains two-to-four percent of hydroquinone and may be purchased over-the-counter or via a prescription from your dermatologist. Hydroquinone is applied to the skin in small amounts and diminishes dark spots by blocking an enzyme called tyrosinase. Results can be seen in as little as two weeks, but it usually takes 8 to 12 weeks for truly noticeable improvement. (Pro-tip ask about our customized skin care options)
2. Lasers
Lasers are an extremely effective option for the treatment of hyperpigmentation and dark spots and one of our most preferred methods They deliver focused beams of light, which are attracted to melanin and able to break down dark spots into small particles that can then be absorbed into the skin. IPL is also among the most-popular dark spot treatments in NoVA. It applies pulses of broad-spectrum light to filter out and neutralize discoloration in the skin.
Both lasers and IPL are noninvasive and nonsurgical and require little to no downtime which makes them a favorite.
3. Microneedling
Microneedling is an in-office treatment that can correct a variety of cosmetic concerns including dark spots. It utilizes ultra-thin needles to make tiny holes in the skin which stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin. Topical products are often used afterwards to enhance microneedling effects
4. Chemical Peels
Chemical peels target dark spots with a different mechanism of action than lasers, IPL, and microneedling. They use medical-grade acid solutions to remove the outermost layer of skin and promote cellular renewal, reducing, or even completely removing, the appearance of dark spots.
5. Microdermabrasion
If you are seeking a more gentle dark spot treatment, microdermabrasion could be an excellent option. This procedure exfoliates dead skin cells and other skin debris using particles, of varying coarseness, and a vacuum mechanism. Microdermabrasion is safe for all skin types, has zero recovery, and is ideal for milder hyperpigmentation. This is such a gentle alternative that there is no downtime and you’re able to resume like normal once the procedure is complete.
If you are looking for dark spot treatments in Northern VA, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly skilled and talented providers and we will make sure you leave our office glowing and refreshed.
