When we talk about spots, we are referring to areas of the skin that accumulate melanin. Did you know that there are several types of facial spots? They can be solar lentigo (the most common), melasma (also called chloasma, that typically appears during pregnancy) or actinic keratosis (associated with aging and a sign of accumulated sun damage). Some medication, such as hormonal contraception, can increase the appearance of melasma.
The first and most important step to take is to include a good sunscreen in your daily facial routine. Especially with SPF50. It is also advisable to avoid the sunniest hours of the day and use other means of protection, such as sunglasses, hats, etc.
I recommend following a routine with cosmetic products that help to both minimise their appearance and prevent them from getting darker. They usually contain exfoliating and depigmenting ingredients that soften the colour of the spots and unify the skin tone. These treatments are recommended in autumn and winter, as they can be photosensitising. In summer, the treatment can be continued, as long as you protect yourself appropriately from the sun and use products that your skin can tolerate or that are less concentrated.
You can start, for example, by applying an anti-spot serum before your usual cream. The most popular active ingredients for spots are kojic acid, vitamin C, tranexamic acid, glycolic acid, niacinamide...
Finally, if you do not know what is causing your blemishes or notice an unusual appearance, we recommend that you consult a dermatologist. Book a check-up appointment, especially if your skin has actinic keratosis and/or many nevi (moles).
