Aesthetic doctor warns against rushing to remove post-holiday pigmentation

The first mistake people make after returning from holiday may be trying to erase dark spots too quickly, says aesthetic doctor Antonia Alonso. As tans fade, small brown marks on the cheeks or forehead can suddenly look more obvious, prompting a rush toward serums, peels, and other treatments.

But skin may still be recovering from weeks of sun exposure, high temperatures, salt, chlorine, and stronger outdoor exposure than usual. Alonso says people should assess the condition of their skin and wait for intense exposure and recent tanning to subside before beginning intensive treatment.

Some spots that seem to have appeared during the holiday were already present. Ultraviolet radiation stimulates melanin production and can darken existing pigmentation, making it more visible after summer. SPF 50 greatly reduces ultraviolet exposure but does not provide an absolute barrier. Insufficient application, failing to reapply, sweating, swimming, and long periods outdoors can all reduce protection.

“

The mistake when returning from holiday is wanting to erase the spots too quickly.

Melasma is more complicated than a simple ultraviolet reaction. Heat and visible light may also play a role, which is why hats, sunglasses, shade, and sunscreen remain useful together. Alonso says diagnosis must come before treatment because not all brown spots are the same.

Solar lentigines tend to appear as small, clearly defined brown marks on areas exposed to sunlight over many years, such as the face, chest, and hands. Melasma usually forms broader, less defined areas on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip, and often returns. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also follow conditions such as acne. The distinction determines the appropriate approach.

“

Before deciding on a treatment, we need to diagnose what we are treating. We cannot apply the same protocol to every spot.