Brown Spots on Face: Causes + Treatments [2024]

What are Brown Spots?

Brown spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, are areas of skin discolouration caused by excess melanin production. They can manifest as age spots, sun spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), affecting skin tone and appearance.

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Why do Brown Spots Occur?

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Melanin Overproduction:

Brown spots develop when melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for producing melanin, become overactive. Factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, and skin trauma can trigger increased melanin production, leading to the formation of dark patches.

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Role of RF, Microdermabrasion, and Laser Treatment:

Treatments like Radio frequency (RF), microdermabrasion, and laser therapy target melanin production and promote skin renewal to reduce the appearance of brown spots. These modalities work by stimulating collagen production and removing surface pigmentation, restoring skin tone and texture.

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Different Types of Brown Spots on Face

Brown spots on the face, or hyperpigmentation, can manifest in various forms due to different underlying causes. Understanding these types can aid in selecting the most appropriate treatment approach:

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Melasma:

Commonly referred to as the "mask of pregnancy," melasma causes brown or grayish patches to appear on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or due to hormonal contraceptives, often trigger melasma.

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Freckles:

Brown spots or freckles are small, flat spots that develop as a result of genetics and sun exposure. They are more common in individuals with fair skin and tend to darken with sun exposure.

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Age Spots (Liver Spots):

Age spots are dark, flat patches that typically appear on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun over time, such as the face, hands, and shoulders. They are more common in older individuals and are associated with the natural ageing process and cumulative sun damage.

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Sunspots (Solar Lentigines):

These dark spots result from prolonged sun exposure, typically appearing on areas of the face that receive the most sunlight. Sunspots are flat, well-defined, and vary in size and colour, ranging from light brown to black.

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Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):

PIH occurs as a result of skin trauma, such as acne, burns, or insect bites. The dark spots develop at the site of inflammation and can persist for months or even years after the initial injury has healed.

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Reasons for Recurrence

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Sun Exposure:

Continued UV exposure can exacerbate existing brown spots and induce the development of new ones. Protection with sun protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential to prevent further pigmentation.

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Hormonal Changes:

Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those experienced during pregnancy or with the use of birth control pills, can contribute to the recurrence of brown spots, particularly in conditions like melasma.

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Treatment Factors:

Improper treatment adherence or aggressive treatments may lead to recurrence of brown spots. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist and following recommended treatment guidelines are crucial for long-term success.

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Effective Treatment Options

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Chemical Peels:

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate the outer layer, leading to smoother and more even-toned skin. These peels can help lighten dark spots on the face by promoting cell turnover and reducing melanin production.

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Average cost in Singapore: SGD 150 to SGD 500 per session, depending on the type of peel and the clinic's reputation.

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Laser Therapy:

Laser therapy utilises focused light energy to target and break down melanin deposits in the skin, effectively reducing the appearance of dark spots. Different types of lasers, such as fractional laser and Q-switched laser, can be used depending on the severity and depth of pigmentation. Laser treatments for dark spots are often performed in multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results while minimising the risk of side effects such as redness and swelling.

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Average cost in Singapore: SGD 500 to SGD 2000 per session, depending on the type of laser and the size of the treatment area.

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Microdermabrasion:

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive exfoliation technique that uses a handheld device to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells, revealing fresher and brighter skin underneath. While microdermabrasion alone may not effectively address dark spots on the face, it can be combined with other treatments such as chemical peels or topical lightening agents for enhanced results.

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Average cost in Singapore: SGD 80 to SGD 250 per session, depending on the clinic and additional treatments included.

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After-Care Guidelines and Expectations

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Skin Reaction:

Post-treatment reactions such as redness, swelling, and temporary darkening are common before improvement occurs. These reactions typically subside with proper after-care.

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Long-Term Results:

Consistent after-care and follow-up treatments are essential for maintaining results and preventing recurrence. Additionally, preventive measures like sun protection and skincare routines help minimise the risk of brown spot recurrence.

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In conclusion, understanding the significance of sun protection and regular skin examinations is crucial for preventing skin cancer. Additionally, treatments like chemical peels can effectively treat dark spots and improve skin tone. It's essential to prioritise skincare practices that remove dead skin cells and protect against UV damage to maintain healthy skin. Whether dealing with liver spots, dark skin tones, or other skin conditions, addressing these concerns early can help prevent further damage and promote overall skin health.

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