The skin is the largest organ on the human body, and the most susceptible to the environment. This includes the sun, which can damage the skin over time and contribute to one’s risk of developing skin cancer. Dr. Michael Scannon and his team at Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center are here to help patients understand ways to protect the skin and reduce their risk of developing sunspots and sun damage.
What are sunspots?
Sunspots are areas of hyperpigmentation that are often the result of extensive sun exposure. While getting some sunlight each day can help our body product vitamin D for better health and bone function, it can also harm the skin and increase a patient’s risk of sun damage or skin cancer. These spots can develop anywhere where sun exposure has occurred and can be large or small. When they develop, patients often have questions for medical professionals regarding removal.
How are sunspots treated?
At Florida Westcoast Skin and Cancer Center, Tampa, FL area residents can learn about treatment options to reduce the pigmentation and sun damaged skin. This may include light-based therapies such as IPL or laser based therapies. These can rejuvenate the skin and fade away sunspots, treating skin that might be significantly damaged from past sun exposure.
How can I prevent sunspots?
Because sunspots are often related to sun exposure, it is vital that patients protect their skin when they are outside. Even for short periods of time, patients should be wearing high SPF sunblock on exposed skin every day. Patients should avoid spending a lot of time out in the sun and should seek shade, especially between the hours of 10am and 4pm when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Avoidance of sunburn is also critical in reducing the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Schedule a visit with Dr. Michael Scannon and his associates in Tampa, FL
If you are located in the community and are ready to work with a dermatologist to discuss sun spots and other forms of sun damage on the skin, connect with the team by calling (810) 877-4811. We are open to new and current patients at our practice, located in Suites 1 and 2 at 4200 North Armenia Avenue.