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Brown Spots on Skin

When the skin is exposed for prolonged periods of time to the sun, the cells in the skin are multiplied. An increased in the number of melanocytes can lead to a darker skin but, in many cases, it causes the appearance of brown spots. These modifications on the skin are also known as age spots, as they often appear in the elder population. However, they are also presented as sun spots or liver spots, depending on the exact cause that has led to their appearance in the first place. Also, the treatment might be different according to the existence of an underlying medical condition.

The brown spots appear most often on the areas where the skin is directly exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, chest and forearms. The back, the shoulders and, of course, the hands and the feet are often affected. The condition is more severe in patients who have had periods of prolonged exposure to the sun (for tanning or occupational purposes) and in those who have suffered from frequent sunburns. The elderly population is often diagnosed with brown spots on skin and it is seems that there is also a genetic predisposition to developing this condition.

The condition can be aggravated in cases of constant stress and anxiety, by pregnancy, in case of different types of vitamin deficiency and also in case the liver does not function properly. The good news is that these brown spots are harmless for the patient. Most of the patients seek out treatment and they try out different homes remedies because of the aesthetic concern.

What Causes Brown Spots on Skin?

These are the most common causes that can lead to the appearance of brown spots on the skin:

Prolonged and constant exposure to ultraviolet
Repeated artificial tanning
The following are considered as risk factors:
- Light skin that rather burns than tans
- Frequent sunburns

Treatment

These are the most common treatments recommended for brown spots on the skin:

Topical applications

Bleaching cream – active substance: hydroquinone

Topical retinoids

These should be used only for reduced periods of time as a treatment, as they can have serious consequences on a person’s overall health

Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids of mild potency are recommended in this situation

Broad spectrum sunscreen

As the brown spots appear as a direct result of the prolonged sun damage, it is important to protect yourself from the sun and use sunscreen with high protection factor

Laser therapy/ intense pulsed light therapy

Recommended to reduce the number of melanocytes in the skin
The surface of the skin is not damaged
Several therapy sessions are required before the first results are noticeable
The skin might be slightly discolored after the therapy
It is recommended that you use a high SPF sunscreen after undergoing laser or intense pulsed light therapy

Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen is applied to the area with brown spots, freezing the melanocytes
The results are noticeable after the skin heals
Recommended to be used on single spots or on small clusters of brown spots
Potential side-effects include:
- Temporary skin irritation
- Scarring (may be permanent)
- Discoloration

Dermabrasion

This is a procedure in which the surface of the skin is practically sanded down with a specialized tool
This will allow for a new layer of skin to form and it will take care of the brown spots
Potential side-effects include:
- Treated area is red (temporarily)
- Scab formation

Chemical peel

This is a procedure in which the surface of the skin is practically burned, with the help of a chemical substance
After the chemical peel procedure, a new layer of the skin is going to appear and the brown spots will no longer be present
Several sessions of chemical peeling are required before the results become noticeable
It is recommended that you wear a high SPF sunscreen after you have undergone a chemical peel
Potential risks include:
- Temporary skin irritation
- Discoloration

Home remedies

These are the most common home remedies you can try out for brown spots on the skin:

Lemon juice

Direct application to the brown spots on the skin
Applications of half an hour
Cold water rinse after the application
Daily repetitions until an improvement in skin appearance is noticed
For sensitive skin, use water to dilute the fresh lemon juice

Buttermilk

Application to the brown spots with the help of a cotton ball
Applications of several minutes
Cold water rinse after the application
Can be combined with lemon juice for better results
Daily repetitions are recommended until the first results are noticeable

Castor oil

Recommended because of its healing properties
Cotton ball applications
Applications lasts several hours
Cold water rinse after the application
Daily applications (morning and night)
Other types of oil you can use for the treatment of brown spots: vitamin E oil, coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil

Apple cider vinegar

Mix with water, honey or orange juice
Application lasts several minutes
Cold water rinse after the application
Daily applications are recommended

Aloe Vera

Recommended because of its healing properties
It can also be used to rejuvenate the skin after having undergone different therapies for brown spots
Fresh Aloe Vera is indicated to be used through direct application
Half an hour application
Cold water rinse after the application
Daily repetition of applications

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