Unfortunately, the sun doesn't just conjure up a warm summer complexion or perky freckles on our faces, sometimes the UV radiation also leaves larger pigment spots on the skin. These are called chloasma or melasma and are completely harmless - but are particularly annoying for women. Fortunately for them, there are now good ways to do something about these pigment spots and get rid of them.

Caused by too much melanin

"Pigment spots occur when the skin produces an excessive amount of the body's own pigment melanin in certain areas to protect itself from the sun," explains Dr. Johannes Müller-Steinmann, Medical Director of the Dermatology Center Kiel. "These pigments are deposited on the surface of the skin, where they form the irregular, light to dark brown spots."

Too much sun and age

Pigment spots usually form from around the age of 40 and are the visible signs of many years of sun exposure - which is why they are usually found on the face and hands. However, they can also be genetic. Over the years, pigmentation also becomes more uneven. Sometimes the cause is also hormonal. For example, dark spots can also form under the influence of the pill or during pregnancy.

Laser dissolves skin pigment

Pigment spots are harmless - but not so pretty. Many people want their skin to look more even and are looking for methods to combat pigmentation spots. "We usually treat the spots with the ruby laser or the neodymium YAG laser," says Müller-Steinmann. "Both emit high-energy light that penetrates directly into the skin pigment. There it transforms into heat in a fraction of a second and dissolves the pigments." The laser removes the pigment from the skin without damaging the surrounding tissue. For patients, lasering feels like small pinpricks. Afterwards, you should stay out of the sun for two weeks. The insurance does not cover the costs, which start at around 60 euros and depend on the number and size.