Overview of the formation, care, laser treatment, and cosmetic surgery of dark spots and moles

Dark spots, moles

Causes of dark spots and moles

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is harmful to the skin, so it's important to avoid it as it causes melanin production. Prolonged sun exposure can darken the skin, which is a direct result of increased melanin production.

Sun-tanned skin usually returns to its original state after about a month. This is because skin cells that produced a large amount of melanin will continuously shed dead cells and generate new cells during metabolism.

However, in some cases, the melanin produced is not expelled from the skin and forms pigment deposits, which are known as dark spots or moles.

skin care

Sunscreen

The most important thing to prevent the production of melanin is sun protection.

Cosmetic particles can offer some protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays, so wearing light makeup regularly can help block UV rays. However, it's essential to use sunscreen during the summer when UV radiation is particularly strong.

Sunscreen can be applied before makeup or used in place of foundation.

Use whitening face mask

Vitamin C can be used to prevent the production of melanin and to lighten existing melanin. You can use whitening masks made from cucumber, lemon, strawberry, etc., once or twice a week, but you need to be persistent to see results.

Treatment of dark spots and moles

Once dark spots or moles appear, they are difficult to remove with masks or ointments because they cannot reach the deeper layers of the skin. The most effective way to treat pigmentation in a short time without leaving scars is through laser treatment at a dermatology clinic. Lasers that only react to black or brown pigment can break down melanin deep within the skin. After the procedure, the wound will scab over, and it is important to avoid sun exposure for 2-3 months.

Freckles and laser surgery

Freckles are spots that are normally distributed on the face and are caused by simple hyperpigmentation of the skin. They are more common before the age of 20 and then gradually disappear.

The most effective way to remove freckles is laser treatment, which has the advantage of eliminating freckles without damaging other areas. However, some laser treatments may not completely remove freckles, or may even produce side effects, leading to consequences more serious than being unable to touch the freckles.

Therefore, before going to the hospital for treatment, you should first determine whether the facilities there are complete and advanced, and whether the doctors have experience in this area.

Cosmetic surgery

Although the cost and side effects of surgery are issues, cosmetic surgery of the eyes, nose, and facial contours is the most practical way to improve one's appearance.

double eyelid

Single eyelids, often associated with Eastern aesthetics, are increasingly seen as a new kind of charm. However, many women still desire large, defined eyes, and the most effective way to achieve this is through double eyelid surgery.

Surgical methods

Suturing

No incision is needed. Instead, the skin and muscle are connected by suturing and knotting along the desired double eyelid line. Swelling is expected for three days post-surgery, but it will look natural after a week. The short recovery time makes it a top choice for busy working women.

However, this surgery also has the weakness of being prone to sutures coming undone, so it is not suitable for people who need to have a lot of upper eyelid fat removed.

Cutting method

The procedure involves making an incision in the eyelid, removing appropriate amounts of fat and muscle, and then connecting the eyelid to the muscle to create a double eyelid. Swelling is expected for five days after surgery, and it will look natural after about a month.

The disadvantage of this surgery is the long recovery time, but its advantage is that it can create very clear and obvious double eyelids that will not lose their shape and will not require rework.

Hybrid

This is not a commonly used method. A portion is cut open, fat is removed, and then the double eyelid crease is created using sutures. Surgical methods vary between different dermatology clinics, so it is essential to discuss this with your doctor beforehand.

double eyelid shape

① Fan shape (basic shape)

The inner corner of the eye is narrow, widening towards the outer corner. This shape is most suitable for East Asians with relatively flat faces. Compared to a parallel line double eyelid, the outline is less defined, but more natural, and it can be corrected to a parallel line shape if desired.

② Parallel lines

The double eyelids form parallel lines from the inner corner to the outer corner. This shape gives the eyes a deep, Western appearance. Such double eyelids are very noticeable even from a distance, making them a popular choice for many entertainers. However, they appear somewhat unnatural up close, and once surgically corrected to a fan shape, they cannot be fully restored.

Postoperative care

Applying ice packs for a day or two after surgery can help reduce swelling. You can resume applying makeup about a week after the stitches are removed. If the swelling doesn't appear to have subsided several months later, it's because insufficient fat or muscle was removed, and a corrective procedure should be performed.