A Decade-Long Journey to Fix Sun Spots – The Cut

🔍 Summary:

Lisa, a 41-year-old who grew up idolizing the tanned look popular during the “Britney Spears era,” learned the hard way about the consequences of neglecting daily sunscreen and frequenting tanning salons. After years of minimal sunscreen use and exposure to the sun during her summers in Italy, Lisa noticed her skin was developing what she initially thought were freckles but were actually sun spots caused by sun damage. This realization came after visiting Dr. Shereene Idriss, a highly sought-after dermatologist in New York City, who Lisa consulted initially for Botox and fillers around 2015.

Dr. Idriss recommended a comprehensive treatment plan starting with Fraxel laser treatments, which Lisa underwent twice over eight months, and intense-pulse-light (IPL) treatments every six weeks. These procedures, costing $7,800, significantly reduced her sun spots, though not completely. Dr. Idriss also introduced Lisa to a strict skincare routine involving hydroquinone pads and gel, combined with tretinoin at night, and diligent daily sunscreen application. This routine gradually improved her skin’s appearance and health.

Today, Lisa maintains her skin’s health with regular IPL or Clear + Brilliant treatments and a consistent skincare regimen that includes products like Dr. Idriss’s gel cleanser, Valmont mist, Major Fade mask, and serums designed for sensitive and hyperpigmented skin. She also uses a high-SPF sunscreen developed by Dr. Idriss that treats and protects the skin. The total annual cost for her treatments and skincare products is $4,644, but Lisa finds the investment worthwhile as it has significantly improved her skin and confidence, to the point where she no longer feels the need to wear foundation.

📌 Source: http://www.thecut.com/article/how-much-does-fixing-sun-spots-cost.html