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At Anand Medical Spa in NYC, our top priority is maintaining your natural beauty. When it comes to robbing your gorgeous glow, there are few things more to blame than sun damage. As part of our end-of-Summer Rejuvenation Series, let’s examine two visible manifestations of sun damage, and even more important, what can be done right now to treat them.
Sun Spots
Sun spots are darkened areas of the skin that are a result of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Melanin – a naturally occurring pigment in the skin – is produced as a protective factor in response to sun exposure. Many men and women love the effect of this protective response when they are younger, but, as we age, the production of melanin in over-exposed areas may continue long after sun exposure ends. These unsightly darkened areas are referred to as sun spots. Often seen in areas over-looked when applying sunscreen; sun spots commonly appear on the forearms, hands, top of head, and face.
Melasma
To be clear, melasma does not appear as a result of exposure to UV rays. Melasma is a hormone-driven pigmentation disorder. However, melasma is made worse by exposure to the sun and is impossible to treat when sun protection is not worn on a daily basis. Often seen on pregnant women, melasma is commonly referred to as the “pregnancy mask”. This is due to a hormone secreted by the placenta that activates melanin – the pigment causing cells in the skin. Melasma is most commonly seen around the upper lip, eyes, and cheeks.
How To Treat Sun Damage
Anand Medical Spa’s Fall Rejuvenation Series feature a series of SkinMedica Chemical Peels that address each client’s specific level of pigmentation. SkinMedica Peels are medical-grade and can only be administered by a licensed professional. They are safe for all skin types, and when used in conjunction with a professional home care lightening regimen, greatly reduce the appearance of pigment disorders such as sun spots and melasma.
*Because Melasma is triggered by hormones in some cases it may fade with time such as after childbirth.
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About the Author:
Dr. Sunanda Chugh is the Founder and Medical Director of Anand Medical Spa and has been practicing in NYC since 2004. She is a graduate of Cornell University and has completed her training at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital/Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Chugh has worked and trained with top Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists in NYC. Her special interest on the effect of the aging process on the face and body inspired her to specialize in Aesthetic Medicine.