What is a remedy for hyperpigmentation on arms (sun spots)? (photo)

Question

I am a 48 year old woman with light skin tone and am experiencing hyperpigmentation (sun spots) on my arms as a result of past UV exposure. I would like to know what the most reliable course of action would be for long term success in addressing this issue.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office has many different treatments for scars depending on the depth of atrophy or hypertrophy. Scars require a combination approach using our HI DEF protocol which uses a combination of lasers, topical scar modulation, and RF treatments to pixelate scars, improve contour, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the visibility of the scars so that they are no longer visible in ambient light. Everyone has a unique pattern of scarring and we employ our HIDEF technique to improve texture, color, contour, and topography. We often use a combination of treatments that begin with a careful examination to examine the micro texturing of the acne scars. Atrophic scars and indented  scars can benefit from injectable fillers such as Radiesse, Sculptra, and Restylane with or without subcision to remove tethered scars and atrophic depression. Hyper-redness in scars can be improved with V beam laser, Excel V, BBL, IPL, and Venus RF to improve  the redness and reduce the visibility of deep scars. Fractional Thulium laser and clear & brilliant can also reduce the inflammation and redness of the scar when combined with topical therapy. Fractional lasers such as Fraxel, erbium, and CO2 laser can be combined with radio frequency and also fractional RF to improve textual issues and microtopography. Subcision and TCA cross are also used for deep ice pick scars and narrow valley scars in order to improve the micro texture.  Above all, our combination approach with our clinical nurses and board-certified plastic surgeons can improve the quality of your skin by using at home Melarase creams combined with PRP treatments in our office to improve your skin quality and tone. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with an experienced team of experts in order to reduce your scarring.
 
Finally, hyperpigmentation of scars can be improved with at-home Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads to help reduce active PIH and melanin deposition.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

One of the best ways to treat hyperpigmentation on the arms is with a device called IPL or Intense Pulse Light. This light based device is attracted to the contrast between the dark pigment and your natural skin tone. This device works best when your skin is its natural color without a tan present.  Usually a series of treatments is recommend for best results with this treatment. Hyperpigmentation or sun damage is cumulative as we get older. While we can treat the current discoloration it is important to be aware that previous additional sun damage can appear as time progresses. These treatments are best done in the Fall, Winter, and early Spring for one week post procedure you do not want to expose the treated area to the sun. Wearing SPF of at least 30 everyday is important to maintain good skin health.

Peter Kunz, MD · Answer

You do look like a perfect candidate for an IPL treatment because of the extensive surface area to treat. I would recommend the BBL Hero (also known as: Broad Band Light) by Sciton because of its large spot size and high repetition rate. (Make sure you are not tanned, including self tanner as that can effect the treatments.) 
You may need up to 3-4 treatments, this technology has been shown to turn on gene repair mechanisms, which reverse any signs of aging and sun damage.

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi there,

Have a consultation for IPL that should take care of it and then of course limit sun exposure and wear SPF 50 or higher daily. 
Best of luck!

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