As people age, age spots appear on the face. Individuals across all age groups worry about these "spots" and try every method to "remove" melasma.But how can this be done more scientifically to avoid damaging the skin? Hormones—skin also relies on topical medications containing corticosteroids. With numerous types available and classified as OTC drugs, they can generally be purchased without prescription, leading to significant misuse and abuse.Hormones possess non-specific anti-inflammatory effects and can initially suppress melanocyte secretion, offering some short-term results when applied early. However, once discontinued, the spots often reappear and may even darken. Some elderly individuals develop dependency through prolonged use, leading to steroid-dependent dermatitis. This causes new skin damage such as atrophy, thinning of the stratum corneum, or telangiectasia.Laser, cryotherapy, or electrocautery treatments for age spots differ from other pigmented lesions due to their complex etiology. Treatment should focus on internal regulation rather than these methods, which may damage skin sulfhydryl groups, deepen pigmentation, and expand the affected area. Using "skin resurfacing" for spot removal: Our skin is only 0.5 to 4 millimeters thick, with the epidermis being even thinner at less than 0.2 millimeters.This layer, less than 0.2 mm thick, comprises over ten cell layers. Basal cells and the surface stratum corneum continuously grow and shed, maintaining skin homeostasis. The natural renewal cycle for facial skin is approximately 21 to 28 days. The stratum corneum contains 10% to 20% moisture, playing a crucial protective role in maintaining skin hydration and defending against external aggressors.Frequent use of medications or cosmetics containing keratolytic agents to exfoliate the stratum corneum can compromise the skin's natural resistance, significantly weakening its sun protection. Additionally, as the skin increases melanin production to restore its defensive functions, this can exacerbate melasma, potentially leading to hyperpigmentation.
Top Anti-Spot Heroes — Vitamin C-Rich Foods: Kiwi Fruit Kiwi fruit is hailed as a "fruit goldmine." It is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins C, B, and D, as well as minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and potassium.The vitamin C in kiwifruit effectively inhibits the oxidation of dopaquinone in the skin, converting dark oxidized pigments into lighter reduced pigments. This process interferes with melanin formation, prevents pigment deposition, and maintains a fair complexion. Note: Those with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold should avoid excessive consumption, as it may cause diarrhea.Tomatoes Tomatoes nourish the skin and fade freckles. Their rich lycopene and vitamin C content serve as powerful weapons against melanin formation. Studies confirm regular tomato consumption effectively reduces melanin production. Note: Tomatoes have a cooling nature; eating them on an empty stomach may cause stomach pain. Recommended: Drink 1 cup of tomato juice mixed with a small amount of cod liver oil daily for a rosy complexion.