Did you get too much sun during the summer? Sun spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone are the most common results of UV damage. Luckily, there are effective skin therapies to help repair your skin and rejuvenate your complexion. Here are six go-to treatments to address pigmentation and restore your skin’s natural glow.

1 Chemical peels

Chemical peels use acids like glycolic, salicylic, or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to exfoliate the top layers of the skin. These are among the most popular treatments for sun-induced damage because they help reveal fresher, more even-toned skin underneath. Peels can also be customised to fit a certain skin type and the severity of pigmentation.

2 Laser therapies

Fractional and Q-switched lasers target melanin in the skin to break up dark spots and stimulate collagen production. These procedures are highly effective for deeper pigmentation and can provide noticeable results after just a few sessions. However, they require downtime and should be performed by a qualified clinician.

3 Microneedling

Microneedling involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to boost collagen and enhance the absorption of brightening serums (e.g. vitamin C or niacinamide). When combined with targeted serums, microneedling can significantly reduce pigmentation and improve skin texture.

4 Topical treatments

For a more gradual approach, topical treatments can be highly effective. Ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C, and kojic acid work to inhibit melanin production and fade dark spots over time. Consistent use, paired with daily sunscreen, can yield impressive results.

5 IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy

IPL therapy uses broad-spectrum light to target pigmentation and redness. Unlike lasers, IPL treats multiple skin concerns simultaneously. Therefore, it is a great option for those with sunspots and diffuse redness. It’s less invasive than laser treatments but may require multiple sessions for optimal results.

6 Cosmelan depigmentation therapy

Cosmelan depigmentation therapy effectively removes pigmentation from your skin, restores smoothness and leaves a radiant finish. It is one of the only effective melasma treatments. Using high strength formulations, Cosmelan depigmentation therapy helps to draw unwanted pigment to the surface of your skin and shed it away, revealing a brighter and more even complexion. The treatment follows a multi-step approach including at-home skin preparations prior to the deep Cosmelan peel.

Preventing sun damage

There are effective treatments for sun damage, but prevention is always the best strategy. A daily routine that involves a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ combined with protective clothing to shield your skin from harmful UV rays is the way to go. Read nine steps to save your skin after sunburn.

Repairing sun damage takes time, but with the right treatments and a consistent skincare routine, the results will come. A consultation with a dermal clinician is the best way to start.

Please note: The treatments mentioned above are available at select locations only.

References:
Lee, K. C., Wambier, C. G., Soon, S. L., Sterling, J. B., Landau, M., Rullan, P., ... & Society, I. P. (2019). Basic chemical peeling: superficial and medium-depth peels. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 81(2), 313-324.
Sobhi, R. M., Adawy, N. A. H., & Zaky, I. S. (2020). Comparative study between the efficacy of fractional CO2 laser, Q-switched Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm), and both types in treatment of keratosis pilaris. Lasers in Medical Science, 35(6), 1367-1376.
Chu, S., Foulad, D. P., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2021). Safety profile for microneedling: a systematic review. Dermatologic Surgery, 47(9), 1249-1254.
Schwartz, C., Jan, A., & Zito, P. M. (2023). Hydroquinone. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
Sales, A. F. S., Pandolfo, I. L., de Almeida Cruz, M., Parisi, J. R., Garcia, L. A., Martignago, C. C. S., ... & Vassão, P. G. (2022). Intense pulsed light on skin rejuvenation: a systematic review. Archives of Dermatological Research, 314(9), 823-838.