Q: I still get dark spots even though I apply sunblock regularly, especially when I am stressed. Am I imagining things or can spots be caused by stress too?

A: According to Karin Boo, technical manager of Leonard Drake Skincare & Health Spa (see www.leonarddrake.com.sg for locations), you are not imagining things.

One of the ways the body responds to stress is by producing more melanin, which is what causes the dark pigmentation of blemishes, she says.

As the largest organ with the primary function of protecting the body, skin responds to stress by either thickening itself (as a callous, if constant pressure is applied) or by producing melanin (which could be anywhere or on specific areas) to prevent further assault by UV radiation.

Stress-related hyper-pigmentation tends to appear on the periphery of your face and affect those in their 20s to 50s, says Boo.

The obvious way to remedy the situation is by reducing the stress level in your life, although heaven knows that can be hard to pull off these days.

The good news: Your excellent habit of applying sunblock will definitely help control your skin's melanin production.

You can try a favourite product of mine, Alchimie Forever's Brightening Moisture Mask ($117, from Sephora at B1-05 Takashimaya Shopping Centre), which you apply once a week.

Its ingredients of blueberries, grapes and oats are rich in antioxidants. It also moisturises and brightens wonderfully and smells delicious to boot. Over-the-counter topical products, however, may not work as fast and lighten spots as thoroughly as salon treatments or medication prescribed by doctors.

So you may want to consider seeking advice from a dermatologist or treatments such as Leonard Drake's Advanced Skin Lightening Treatment ($230), which uses technology such as ultrasound waves to lighten spots and improve skin texture.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.