Sun Spots: How to Prevent and Treat Them in Punta Cana
Dark spots are the most common concern at our clinic. Learn the causes, the difference between types of spots, and the most effective treatments at Med Luxe.
The 3 Most Common Types of Dark Spots in the Caribbean
Sun spots (lentigines): They appear on sun-exposed areas (face, hands, décolletage). They are flat, uniform in color from light to dark brown. They respond very well to treatment.
Melasma: More diffuse, symmetrical patches, typically on the forehead, cheekbones, and upper lip. Very common in women with hormonal changes (birth control, pregnancy). It is more complex to treat and tends to recur if sun protection is not maintained.
Post-inflammatory: Appears after acne, wounds, or procedures. More common in darker skin and warm climates.
The Most Effective Treatments at Med Luxe
Chemical peels: The most versatile treatment. Acids such as kojic, azelaic, mandelic, and TCA act on hyperpigmentation at different depths of action. They require strict sun protection.
Brightening mesotherapy: Microinjections of vitamin C, glutathione, and tranexamic acid directly into the dermis to inhibit melanin from within.
Transdermotherapy: Needle-free brightening actives, using electroporation technology for deep, comfortable absorption.
The Most Common Mistake: Treating Without Protecting
The biggest mistake I see in patients who come in with dark spots is that they invest in treatments but do not use sunscreen daily. The sun re-creates the spots faster than any treatment removes them.
At our clinic in Bávaro, every patient treating dark spots receives a mandatory sun protection protocol as part of the treatment plan. Without this foundation, results are temporary.
Expected Results and Maintenance
Superficial peels show visible results in 2-4 weeks. For established spots, a complete protocol of 4-6 sessions can achieve a 60-80% improvement in the intensity of the spots.
Maintenance includes: daily SPF 50+ sunscreen, nightly retinol, and maintenance sessions every 3-4 months. Melasma requires special attention since it can return with sun exposure.