The Free Dictionary defines complexion as the natural texture, color and appearance of the skin. Age spots or sun spots are flat round spots on your skin that can be brown or black in color. They are caused by aging and too much sun exposure. The sun also causes uneven complexion by increasing pigmentation in your skin according to the book "The Skin Type Solution" by Leslie Baumann. Some products like Retin-A can help even out your complexion and treat age spots.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery is a procedure that involves applying liquid nitrogen or some other freezing agent to age spots on your skin. This procedure removes age spots by destroying the extra pigment contained in the age spot. According to the Mayo Clinic, the age spots fade gradually as your skin heals. However, this procedure puts you at risk for developing permanently scarred or discolored skin despite its effectiveness.
Retin-A
The American Society for Plastic Surgeons states that at-home treatments of prescription Retin-A gel or cream formulations can treat blotchy pigmented areas on your skin. The result of Retin-A treatment is fresher, brighter looking skin. Using Retin-A and a bleaching agent can gradually erase age spots, according to the Mayo Clinic. Retin-A can only be purchased with a prescription from your dermatologist. The effects of Retin-A need to be maintained by using it continuously.
Glycolic Acid Treatment
As stated in the book "Beautiful Skin: Every Woman's Guide to Looking Her Best at Any Age" regular application of glycolic acid products results in the appearance of a more even complexion, in addition to smoother, and healthier looking skin. This treatment can be done at home with a cream or facial wash containing glycolic acid. The results you get from this product are maintained by its continuous use.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can treat age spots, sun spots, unevenly pigmented or blemished skin and skin that is dull in color and texture. In this treatment, your dermatologist applies a chemical such as trichloroacetic acid or other peeling agent to your skin. The chemical is left on your skin for a while and then removed. After this, your old skin peels off and new skin develops.
References
- The Free Dictionary: Complexion
- "The Skin Type Solution"; Leslie Baumann; 2006
- "Beautiful Skin: Every Woman's Guide to Looking Her Best at Any Age"; David E. Bank, Estelle Sobel; 2000
- American Society for Plastic Surgeons: Skin Rejuvenation Physician's Guide
- Mayo Clinic: Age Spots
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