Sun damage and pigmentation

Years of sun tell the skin to make extra pigment in patches. The result is brown spots on the face, chest, and hands, a blotchy tone, and sometimes fine red vessels. Melasma is different: it is hormonally driven and flares with heat and light, so it needs a gentler and more patient approach.

Light-based treatments such as IPL target pigment and redness directly. Peels and resurfacing lasers lift pigment along with the surface. For melasma Dr. Olivo tends to start with medical-grade skincare and low-heat options because aggressive treatment can make it worse. Daily sunscreen is part of every plan she writes.