Why Do Skin Spots Form?
Skin spots appear when melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, is produced in excess or accumulates in certain areas. Sunlight is the main trigger; hormonal changes, pregnancy, birth control pills, certain medications, acne and skin irritation can also contribute to spot formation.
Common types of spots include sun spots, age-related spots, marks left after acne or injury (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) and melasma, which is linked to hormonal influences. Successful treatment depends on correctly identifying the type and depth of the spot.
Some spots sit only in the upper layer of the skin (the epidermis), while others lie deeper (the dermis). Superficial spots usually respond to treatment more quickly, whereas deep or mixed-type spots call for a longer process that requires patience.
Which Treatment Methods Are Used?
- Sun protection and home care: Regular care with brightening active ingredients is the foundation of treatment.
- Chemical peels: They renew the top layer of the skin in a controlled way and may help reduce superficial pigment.
- Mesotherapy: Mixtures containing brightening and antioxidant ingredients are applied to the skin with micro-injections.
- Laser treatments: Methods such as the thulium laser target pigment and the skin surface.
- Microneedling: Together with suitable serums, it may support skin tone and texture.
Rather than a single method, combination plans are often preferred, in which one or two in-clinic procedures are combined with home care. Which method is chosen depends on the type of spot, skin tone and the season.
How Does the Treatment Process Work?
- At the consultation, the type and spread of the spot and possible triggers are assessed.
- If needed, hormonal status or the medications being used are reviewed.
- A home care routine and sun protection are put in place.
- Suitable in-clinic procedures are planned as sessions at set intervals.
- Maintenance care is recommended to help preserve the results.
Spots that are newly appearing or that change in shape, color or size should first be evaluated by a dermatologist. Cosmetic treatment of spots is planned after this assessment.
What to Keep in Mind Afterward
- A broad-spectrum, high-protection sunscreen should be used every day, including on cloudy days.
- Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2–3 hours outdoors.
- Physical protection such as a hat and sunglasses is recommended.
- Spots should not be scratched and pimples should not be squeezed.
- Recommended products should be used regularly and with patience.
Possible Side Effects and Who Should Not Have It
Depending on the method used, redness, dryness, peeling, sensitivity and temporary swelling may occur. If unsuitable parameters are used or the skin is not protected from the sun, temporary darkening of the spots can develop; for this reason, treatment proceeds in a controlled, gradual way.
Many brightening ingredients and procedures are not used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Procedures are postponed in cases of active infection, cold sores, open wounds, use of medications that cause light sensitivity and recent intense tanning.
Dr. Fulya Koç’s Approach
Dr. Fulya Koç sees pigmentation treatment as a process that requires patience rather than a search for a quick result. Knowing that aggressive procedures can trigger melasma in particular, she follows a gradual plan that does not stress the skin, and she regards helping the patient build sun protection habits as a valuable part of treatment.
The goal of pigmentation treatment is not flawless skin; it is a more even, brighter and healthier-looking skin tone. Hormonal factors, medications and lifestyle are also considered together throughout the process.
Fulya Koç
Frequently asked questions
Melasma is a chronic condition that can come back. Treatment can bring noticeable lightening, but it may become more visible again with triggers such as sun, hormones and heat. This is why maintenance care and sun protection are important.
These marks often fade over time; brightening skin care products, chemical peels and sun protection may speed up the process. First, new breakouts need to be brought under control.
Home care and some gentle procedures can continue in summer. Procedures such as laser and deep peels are usually planned for the months when the sun is less intense.
The information on this page is general. Whether the treatment suits you, its possible risks and the results you can expect are assessed individually at your consultation. Results vary from person to person. Image is illustrative.
