What causes new dark spots to appear on the skin. How can you identify different types of skin discoloration. When should you consult a doctor about changes in skin pigmentation.

Understanding Skin Pigmentation and Melanin

Skin pigmentation is a complex process influenced by various factors, with melanin playing a central role. Melanin is the pigment responsible for giving skin, hair, and eyes their color. The amount of melanin in the skin determines its shade, with higher concentrations resulting in darker skin tones and lower concentrations leading to lighter skin.

Changes in skin pigmentation can occur for numerous reasons, ranging from harmless birthmarks to more serious conditions like skin cancer. These changes often manifest as patches of skin that differ from a person’s normal skin tone, appearing lighter, darker, or even in different colors such as red, gray, or blue.

How does melanin production affect skin color?

Melanin production is regulated by specialized cells called melanocytes. These cells produce melanin in response to various stimuli, including UV radiation from sunlight. When melanocytes increase their melanin production, it can lead to darker patches on the skin. Conversely, a decrease in melanin production or damage to melanocytes can result in lighter patches.

Common Causes of New Dark Spots on Skin

New dark spots on the skin can be attributed to several factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for proper identification and treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons for the appearance of dark spots:

• Sun exposure
• Hormonal changes
• Inflammation or injury to the skin
• Certain medications
• Age-related changes
• Genetic factors

Can sun exposure cause dark spots on the skin?

Yes, sun exposure is one of the primary causes of dark spots on the skin. When the skin is exposed to UV radiation, it triggers melanocytes to produce more melanin as a protective measure. This can lead to the formation of dark spots, also known as sunspots or age spots, particularly in areas that receive frequent sun exposure such as the face, hands, and arms.

Birthmarks: Types and Characteristics

Birthmarks are a common type of skin discoloration present at birth or appearing shortly after. They can be broadly categorized into two types: vascular birthmarks and pigmented birthmarks. Understanding the different types of birthmarks can help in their identification and management.

What are the main types of vascular birthmarks?

Vascular birthmarks result from abnormal blood vessels in the skin and typically appear red or pink. The main types include:

1. Strawberry nevus (hemangioma): A common red patch most often found on the face, scalp, chest, or back.
2. Salmon patch (nevus simplex): A flat red or pink patch usually occurring on the neck or forehead.
3. Port wine stain: A noticeable flat red or purple birthmark that may require treatment.

What characterizes pigmented birthmarks?

Pigmented birthmarks result from issues with melanin in the skin and can be white, brown, blue, or gray. Common types include:

• Mongolian blue spots: Blue or gray patches often present on the back and buttocks at birth.
• Moles: Black or brown spots that are usually harmless but should be monitored for changes.
• Café-au-lait spots: Light brown patches on light skin or dark coffee-colored patches on dark skin.

Skin Pigmentation Disorders: Causes and Symptoms

Skin pigmentation disorders can cause lighter or darker patches of skin and may affect various parts of the body. These disorders can be caused by a range of factors, including genetic predisposition, autoimmune conditions, and environmental influences.

What are the most common skin pigmentation disorders?

Some of the most prevalent skin pigmentation disorders include:

• Melasma: Causes brown patches, typically on facial skin, and is more common in women.
• Vitiligo: Results in patches of lighter skin due to melanocyte dysfunction.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation: Temporary changes in skin pigment following skin trauma.
• Albinism: A genetic disorder characterized by little to no melanin production.

How does vitiligo affect skin pigmentation?

Vitiligo is a condition where melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, stop functioning correctly. This results in patches of lighter skin that can appear anywhere on the body. While the exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, it’s believed to be related to autoimmune factors. In some cases, vitiligo can also affect hair color.

Skin Rashes That Cause Discoloration

Various skin rashes can lead to patches of discolored skin. These rashes may be temporary or chronic and can be caused by different factors, including allergies, autoimmune conditions, and environmental irritants.

What are some common skin rashes that cause discoloration?

Some skin rashes known to cause discoloration include:

• Rosacea: A chronic condition causing raised red patches and pus-filled lesions, typically on the face.
• Psoriasis: Results in silvery-red, crusty, flaky patches that can appear anywhere on the body.
• Contact dermatitis: A rash caused by skin reaction to irritants or allergens.
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Causes red, itchy, dry, and cracked skin patches that may ooze and crust over.

How does psoriasis affect skin appearance?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. This results in the formation of thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches that can be painful. Psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body, but it most commonly affects the elbows, knees, and scalp.

Skin Infections Leading to Discoloration

Certain skin infections can cause changes in skin color, ranging from lighter to darker patches. These infections may be bacterial, fungal, or viral in nature and can affect people of all ages and skin types.

What skin infections can cause discoloration?

Some skin infections known to cause discoloration include:

• Tinea versicolor: A fungal infection that can cause lighter or darker patches of skin.
• Cellulitis: A bacterial infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area.
• Erythrasma: A bacterial infection that causes brown, scaly patches in skin folds.
• Pityriasis rosea: A viral infection that causes a distinctive pattern of skin rashes.

How does tinea versicolor affect skin pigmentation?

Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast naturally present on the skin. This overgrowth interferes with normal skin pigmentation, leading to small, discolored patches of skin. These patches may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin and can be pink, tan, or brown. The condition is more noticeable in the summer or in warm, humid climates when the yeast tends to multiply more rapidly.

When to Consult a Doctor About Skin Discoloration

While many cases of skin discoloration are harmless, some may indicate more serious underlying conditions. It’s important to know when to seek medical attention for changes in skin pigmentation.

What signs indicate a need for medical consultation?

Consider consulting a healthcare professional if you notice:

• Rapid or unexplained changes in the color, size, or shape of existing moles or skin marks
• New growths or lesions on the skin, especially if they’re asymmetrical or have irregular borders
• Skin discoloration accompanied by other symptoms like itching, pain, or bleeding
• Large areas of skin changing color
• Skin discoloration that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments

How can you differentiate between harmless and potentially serious skin discoloration?

While it can be challenging to distinguish between benign and potentially serious skin discoloration without professional expertise, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Symmetry: Benign spots are usually symmetrical, while irregular shapes may be cause for concern.
2. Border: Harmless spots typically have smooth, even borders. Jagged or blurred edges might indicate a problem.
3. Color: Benign spots are usually one color. Multiple colors or changes in color could be a red flag.
4. Diameter: Spots larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) should be checked by a doctor.
5. Evolution: Any changes in size, shape, or color over time warrant medical attention.

Remember, these guidelines are not definitive, and when in doubt, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider for a professional assessment.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Discoloration

Proper diagnosis and treatment of skin discoloration depend on identifying the underlying cause. Healthcare professionals use various methods to diagnose skin conditions and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

How do doctors diagnose the cause of skin discoloration?

Doctors may use several diagnostic tools and techniques to identify the cause of skin discoloration:

• Visual examination: A thorough inspection of the affected area and overall skin condition.
• Medical history: Discussion of symptoms, lifestyle factors, and family history of skin conditions.
• Wood’s lamp examination: Use of ultraviolet light to detect certain skin infections or pigmentation disorders.
• Skin biopsy: Removal and microscopic examination of a small skin sample.
• Blood tests: To check for underlying health conditions that might be causing skin changes.

What treatments are available for skin discoloration?

Treatment options for skin discoloration vary depending on the underlying cause and may include:

1. Topical medications: Creams or ointments containing ingredients like hydroquinone, corticosteroids, or retinoids.
2. Oral medications: Antibiotics for bacterial infections or antifungals for fungal infections.
3. Light therapy: Targeted light treatments to reduce pigmentation or stimulate melanin production.
4. Chemical peels: Application of a chemical solution to remove the top layer of skin and reduce discoloration.
5. Laser therapy: Use of focused light energy to target and break down excess pigment.
6. Cryotherapy: Freezing of affected skin areas to remove excess pigmentation.
7. Cosmetic camouflage: Use of specialized makeup to cover discolored areas.

It’s important to note that treatment effectiveness can vary, and some forms of skin discoloration may be permanent or require ongoing management. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific condition.

Prevention and Management of Skin Discoloration

While not all cases of skin discoloration can be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk and manage existing conditions effectively. Understanding these preventive measures and management strategies is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.

How can you prevent skin discoloration?

To reduce the risk of developing skin discoloration, consider the following preventive measures:

• Sun protection: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
• Avoid skin irritants: Identify and avoid products or substances that may irritate your skin.
• Maintain good skin hygiene: Keep your skin clean and moisturized to prevent infections and maintain overall skin health.
• Manage underlying health conditions: Control diseases like diabetes that can affect skin health.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from within.
• Eat a balanced diet: Consume foods rich in antioxidants and vitamins that promote skin health.

What are some effective strategies for managing existing skin discoloration?

If you’re dealing with skin discoloration, consider these management strategies:

1. Follow prescribed treatments: Adhere to the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare provider.
2. Use gentle skincare products: Choose non-irritating, fragrance-free products suitable for your skin type.
3. Practice sun safety: Protect discolored areas from further sun damage to prevent worsening of the condition.
4. Be patient: Many treatments for skin discoloration take time to show results. Consistency is key.
5. Consider cosmetic options: Use color-correcting makeup or concealers to temporarily cover discolored areas if desired.
6. Monitor changes: Keep track of any changes in your skin’s appearance and report them to your doctor.
7. Manage stress: High stress levels can exacerbate some skin conditions, so practice stress-reduction techniques.

Remember, while these strategies can be helpful, it’s important to work closely with a dermatologist or healthcare provider to develop a personalized management plan tailored to your specific condition and needs.

Pictures, causes, and when to see a doctor

Changes in skin pigmentation can happen for many reasons, including birthmarks, pigmentation disorders, rashes, and infections. An increase in melanin, for example, can cause brown or dark patches to appear.

Skin contains melanin, which is the pigment that gives the skin its color. Having more melanin makes the skin darker, while less of it results in lighter skin. Melanin is also responsible for hair and eye color.

Patches of discolored skin are noticeable because they differ from a person’s normal skin tone. They may be lighter, darker, or a different color, such as red, gray, or blue.

It is important that people with this symptom understand the cause of their discolored skin patches in case treatment is necessary.

This article explores the various causes of discolored skin patches and explains which of them require treatment.

Discolored skin patches have many different causes, including:

• birthmarks
• skin pigmentation disorders
• skin rashes
• skin infections
• skin cancers
• medical conditions

We look at each one of these in more detail below.

Birthmarks

Birthmarks are patches of discoloration that people have when they are born. Some types of birthmark fade over time, while others may be permanent.

Birthmarks are either vascular or pigmented. Vascular birthmarks are red, and they occur due to abnormal blood vessels in the skin.

Types of vascular birthmark include:

• Strawberry nevus. Also called a hemangioma, this is a common type of vascular birthmark. It appears as a red patch and is most common on the face, scalp, chest, and back. A strawberry nevus does not usually require treatment.
• Salmon patch. Also called a nevus simplex, this flat red or pink patch of skin typically occurs on the neck or forehead. Up to 40 percent of all babies are born with this type of birthmark.
• Port wine stain. This is a noticeable flat red or purple birthmark. Some port wine stains may require treatment, which might include laser treatment or cosmetic camouflage.

Pigmented birthmarks are generally white, brown, blue, or gray. They result from a problem with the melanin in the skin.

Types of pigmented birthmark include:

• Mongolian blue spots. These are blue or gray patches that may be present on the back and buttocks at birth. Babies with darker skin are more likely to have these birthmarks. Mongolian blue spots often fade as the child grows.
• Moles. These are black or brown spots that are usually harmless. However, it is best to see a doctor if a mole changes shape, size, or texture.
• Café-au-lait spot. These appear as light brown skin patches on light skin or black coffee-colored patches on dark skin. Café-au-lait spots are often oval-shaped and may fade as the child grows.

Skin pigmentation disorders

If a person has lighter or darker skin patches, this may signify a skin pigmentation disorder. Type of skin pigmentation disorder include:

Melasma. This is a common skin condition that usually affects facial skin and causes brown patches. It affects women more often than men. Triggers of melasma can include sun exposure and hormonal changes.

Vitiligo. This disease can affect any part of the body. It causes the cells that produce melanin, known as melanocytes, to stop working correctly, which results in patches of lighter skin. Sometimes, it will also change a person’s hair color. The exact cause of vitiligo is unknown, but a problem with the immune system may be responsible.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. This is a temporary increase or decrease in skin pigment following skin trauma, such as a blister or burn.

Albinism. People with albinism do not produce enough melanin. This leads to little or no pigment in the skin, hair, or eyes. Albinism is a genetic disorder, meaning that a person inherits a faulty gene from one or both of their parents.

Skin rashes

Some types of skin rash can also cause patches of discolored skin. These include:

• Rosacea. This is a chronic skin condition that can cause raised patches of red skin and pus-filled lesions. It typically affects the forehead, cheeks, and nose.
• Psoriasis. This is a skin condition that causes silvery-red, crusty, flaky patches of skin, which can appear anywhere on the body. Doctors believe that psoriasis may result from a problem with the immune system.
• Contact dermatitis. This rash happens when the skin reacts to an irritant or allergen.
• Eczema. Also known as atopic dermatitis, this condition can cause patches of red skin that is also itchy, dry, and cracked. These patches may sometimes ooze and then form a crust. The cause of eczema is unclear, but it can run in families and is more common in people who have asthma, hay fever, and other allergies.

Skin infections

Certain skin infections may also cause discoloration, such as:

• Tinea versicolor. This is a fungal skin infection that can cause patches of skin to become lighter or darker. These patches usually develop slowly and can sometimes merge to form larger patches. Tinea versicolor tends to affect the trunk, neck, and upper arms.
• Ringworm. Also known as tinea, this is a fungal skin infection that causes red or silver ring-shaped patches of skin. These patches may be scaly, dry, or itchy. Ringworm can appear on most parts of the body, including the scalp, groin, feet, hands, and nails.
• Candidiasis of the skin. This is a fungal skin infection that causes red, itchy skin patches. It often occurs in areas where the skin folds, such as the armpits and groin.

Skin cancers

In rare cases, skin cancer can cause patches of discoloration. Types of skin cancer include:

• Actinic keratosis. These are dry, scaly, pre-cancerous skin patches. Without treatment, they may progress to squamous cell carcinoma.
• Basal cell carcinoma. These are flesh-colored, pearl-like, pink skin patches or bumps. Basal cell carcinomas are the most common form of skin cancer.
• Squamous cell carcinoma. These are red bumps, sores, or scaly patches, which may heal and then re-open. Squamous cell carcinomas are the second most common type of skin cancer.
• Melanoma. This cancer may develop in existing moles or appear as new dark spots. Melanomas are the most severe form of skin cancer, and early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial.

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, including the following, may cause discolored patches of skin:

• Cyanosis. Insufficient oxygen in the blood can cause the skin and lips to appear blue or purple. Cyanosis that occurs suddenly could be a sign of a problem with the heart, lungs, or airways. This is a medical emergency, and a person should seek immediate medical attention.
• Lupus. This is a complex autoimmune condition that may cause a butterfly-shaped rash on the cheeks.

Undiagnosed or untreated diabetes can also cause changes in the skin, such as:

• yellow, reddish, or brown patches of skin
• dark, velvety patches of skin
• thick, hard patches of skin
• blisters
• shin spots

Other causes

If discolored skin patches appear suddenly and then disappear, there may be a simple explanation.

Causes of temporary patches or blotches of red skin include:

• blushing
• exercising
• sunburn

Causes of temporary patches of pale skin include:

• dehydration
• nausea
• low blood sugar
• cold weather conditions

If a new patch of discolored skin appears and does not go away, it is best to see a doctor. It is also important to seek medical attention if a mole changes size, shape, or texture.

To diagnose discolored patches of skin, a doctor may ask the individual about:

• pre-existing medical conditions
• when and how quickly the discolored patch of skin appeared
• whether the discolored patch of skin has changed since it first appeared
• any related symptoms

The doctor may examine the affected skin under a lamp. They may also need to carry out further tests, such as blood tests and a skin biopsy. The skin biopsy will involve the doctor taking a small sample of skin and examining it under a microscope.

The treatment for discolored skin depends on the cause.

If a person has an underlying health condition, the doctor will recommend the best course of treatment for that condition. Treating the underlying condition often resolves any associated skin problems.

If the underlying cause is skin cancer, it is vital that the person has treatment as soon as possible.

Birthmarks and skin pigmentation disorders do not usually require treatment. However, some people may wish to have treatment for cosmetic reasons. Treatment options include laser treatment, chemical peels, and topical creams.

Lemon juice or castor oil may also help to reduce the appearance of discolored skin patches. Alternatively, people can use makeup to camouflage the affected skin.

It is not possible to prevent all causes of discolored patches of skin.

However, sun protection may reduce the risk of melasma, sunburn, and skin cancer. People can protect themselves from the sun by:

• using sunscreen
• staying out of the midday sun
• covering up with loose clothing

There are many possible causes of discolored skin patches. Some causes, such as birthmarks, are not harmful and may not require treatment. Others, such as skin cancer and cyanosis, are likely to require immediate treatment.

It is essential to see a doctor if any new discolored patches of skin appear or if existing moles change in any way. This helps to make early diagnosis and treatment possible, which often leads to a better outlook.

5 skin spots you shouldn’t worry about

Some spots caused by aging and sun exposure are benign, while others need medical attention. Learn the difference.

 If you’ve recently spent any time in the sun, you may have noticed that you have a few more spots—brown or tan or white—on the exposed parts of your body. Even if you always use sun protection now, you can still develop skin changes caused by sun exposure decades ago. The good news is that most of these will not be cancerous. However, distinguishing benign spots from those that warrant medical attention can be somewhat tricky. Though the following are caused by sun exposure, they won’t progress to cancer.

1. Freckles

If you’ve had freckles since you were a kid, you no doubt know how they behave—darkening in the sun and heat and fading in the winter. Freckles themselves are not a cause for worry, but they signal an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

2. Melasma

This condition, marked by irregular dark patches, is more common in women and may appear in one’s 20s and 30s. The patches are often triggered by excessive sun exposure and intensified by changes in hormone levels associated with contraceptives, pregnancy, or postmenopausal hormone therapy. Low levels of thyroid hormone may also contribute. Melasma can affect people with all skin types and become darker with sun exposure. It may disappear during menopause as estrogen and progesterone levels decline.

3. Lentigines

These are commonly called “age spots” or “liver spots.” They are irregular in shape, larger than freckles, and vary from tan to very dark brown. They occur in sun-exposed skin. Some are direct consequences of severe sunburns. They are common in people of all skin types.

4. Seborrheic keratoses

These are usually round, dark, and raised. They are often described as appearing to be stuck on, like a piece of gum. If you’re unsure whether you have a seborrheic keratosis or a melanoma, see a dermatologist.

5. “White spots”

The medical term for these small smooth spots is idiopathic guttate hypo-melanoses. Women are more likely than men to have this condition and usually develop it after age 40, usually on areas of the body exposed to the sun.

What should you do about them?

There is no medical reason to treat any of the above, but scores of over-the-counter products are promoted for reducing the appearance of dark spots or improving skin tone. This is a buyer-beware situation, because these products are cosmetics rather than prescription drugs, their manufacturers don’t have to demonstrate their effectiveness.

However, dermatologists have several proven techniques for treating dark and light skin patches, including chemical peels and prescription ointments containing hydroquinone or retinoic acid. Laser therapy can be effective for dark spots. All of these treatments are considered cosmetic, so your insurance won’t pay for them.

When to see a dermatologist

Check your skin regularly for moles that are new, growing, changing, or irregular in shape and color. They could be a sign of melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, and should be checked by a dermatologist as soon as possible. If melanoma runs in your family or if you have more than 40 moles, have used tanning beds, or have had several sunburns, you’re at increased risk and should have your skin checked regularly by a dermatologist.

Solar, or actinic, keratoses also warrant a trip to the dermatologist because they can progress to a form of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. They are red, pink, tan, or clear bumps that often feel rough or scaly. They may also appear as sandpapery patches that are hard to distinguish from the surrounding skin, except by touch. Although not quite as deadly as melanoma, squamous cell skin cancer can grow deep into surrounding tissue and can occasionally spread to other parts of the body.

You should see a dermatologist if you find any new growths or skin changes that last for more than a couple of weeks. The American Academy of Dermatology’s website has tools to help you spot suspicious growths. Go to www.aad.org and click “Spot skin cancer.”

Image: Goodboy Picture Company/Getty Images

Age spots on the body: treatment, causes, symptoms

Age spots are harmless and do not cause any particular inconvenience, except that they spoil the appearance and contribute to the development of complexes and self-doubt. To understand how to deal with them, in this article we will first find out the reasons for their appearance, and then we will figure out how to get rid of unnecessary pigmentation.

What are age spots?

Age spots are flat, often rounded, areas of the skin that differ in color from the rest of the skin and stand out on it. If you find a spot on your body that differs in color from the rest of the skin, then this is a pigment spot. There may be several such spots.

So why do these spots appear? First of all, this is due to the fact that skin pigmentation is impaired.

Causes of hyperpigmentation.

In men and women, pigmented formations appear for several reasons.

• Exposure to UV rays in a solarium or outdoors. Due to the fact that when exposed to ultraviolet rays, the skin synthesizes melanin, just a tan appears. But, if you abuse the stay in the sun or in the solarium, then there is excessive pigmentation.
• Pigmentation may be caused by hormonal changes. The point is again in melanin, for the production of which, last but not least, the endocrine glands responsible for the synthesis of hormones are responsible.
• Pregnancy can provoke the appearance of spots, in which powerful hormonal changes occur.
• Pigmentation may appear after injury. The integrity of the skin is broken, and post-traumatic hyperpigmentation occurs.
• Some medications cause the side effect of excessive skin pigmentation.
• Liver diseases very often affect the appearance, including the appearance of age spots.
• Poor-quality and incorrectly selected cosmetics contribute to changes in the skin.
• Various inflammations are a concomitant factor for pigmentation.
• Hormonal contraceptive pills provoke unnecessary pigmentation.
• Sometimes there is a hereditary factor.

These are the main reasons, there are others, for example, the performance of cosmetic procedures by people who do not have the appropriate professional skills and specialization.

What are age spots?

Lenitigo is a benign skin growth that is black or dark brown in color.

How to treat age spots?

Today there are several ways to treat hyperpigmentation.

Phototherapy works in a similar way to laser treatment. Only the IPL machine works by flashing light of a wide length, and does not generate a beam of a certain length, like a laser.

There are also folk remedies, but not only do they not give a guaranteed result, but they can also harm the skin.

The best and most reliable way is laser treatment or phototherapy. It’s fast and efficient. In
our clinic of laser cosmetology “Laser Estctic” we use modern laser devices Candela and Lumenis IPL QUANTUM, which are
recognized as the safest in the world, to remove age spots! Call us or leave a request on the website to sign up for
procedure.

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Contents

• Varieties of skin hyperpigmentation
• Causes of age spots
• How to get rid of age spots on the face, hands and body
  • How to lighten age spots on the face or body at home

  900 15 How to remove age spots at a cosmetologist

• Prevention of age spots

Age spots are dark areas on the skin that appear due to the accumulation of melanin pigment. Because of them, the skin color becomes uneven, it looks older. There are many ways to deal with age spots on the face and body, but before choosing one or another method, you need to understand what they are and why they appear.

Varieties of skin hyperpigmentation

Melanin pigment is responsible for the color of eyes, hair and skin. If too much of it accumulates in certain areas of the skin, a pigment spot is formed. There are several types of age spots. The most common of them:

• Freckles, or ephelids – round or oval small reddish, brown or dark areas (up to 2 mm in diameter), often appear on open skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, may turn pale or disappear in winter.
• Moles, or nevi – dark areas, may protrude above the surface of the skin, appear at any age, may become more noticeable over time.
• Solar lentigo – areas of hyperpigmentation up to 2 cm in diameter, as well as freckles associated with exposure to sunlight. Most often formed on mature skin, they can persist throughout the year, even in winter, when the sun is less active.
• Melasma, or chloasma – large dark areas that appear due to changes in hormonal levels. They can occur during pregnancy, due to medication, against the background of certain diseases. Disappear when the hormonal background normalizes.

Hyperpigmentation can also be post-traumatic, post-inflammatory . It occurs if melanin begins to be actively produced under the influence of any factor. This is not always related to the color type of the skin, its aging or exposure to ultraviolet radiation – there are many causes of hyperpigmentation.

Causes of age spots

To understand how to remove age spots from the face, you need to determine the reason why they appeared. Most often, hyperpigmentation occurs under the influence of the following factors:

• Ultraviolet action – when unprotected skin is exposed to the sun for a long time, the cells responsible for the production of melanin are activated, its synthesis is accelerated, which leads to the formation of age spots.
• Injuries, injuries – after cuts, thermal or chemical burns, inflammation, active regeneration starts, which can accelerate the production of melanin. If this happens, hyperpigmentation occurs.
• Hormonal failures – they are provoked by changes in the state of health, many diseases, taking certain medications. If melanin synthesis is accelerated, areas of hyperpigmentation are formed.
• Heredity – the tendency to form age spots is often genetically determined. For example, some people do not have them even after a strong tan, while others immediately appear freckles in the sun.

Age spots can also occur due to certain chronic diseases, allergies, medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight, even due to the use of inappropriate cosmetics. With age, they become more noticeable, appear more often, last longer. Therefore, they are considered one of the signs of aging. To remove age spots, several different methods are used.

How to get rid of age spots on the face, on the hands and on the body

Choosing a way to remove hyperpigmentation from the face or body is necessary, taking into account the size, location, and also the reasons for the appearance of age spots. You can deal with them on your own, with home remedies or by contacting a cosmetology clinic.

How to lighten age spots on the face or body at home

Areas of hyperpigmentation can be removed with the help of special care cosmetics. Its whitening effect is provided by the following components:

• Salicylic acid – gently whitens and at the same time reduces inflammation, helps to remove acne, post-acne.
• Fruit acids – brighten the complexion and make it more even.
• AHA-acids – relieve inflammation, reduce sebum secretion, with regular use give a whitening effect.
• Thiamidol is an active substance that acts against hyperpigmentation.
• Licorice extract – has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, soothing effect, visibly brightens the skin.

It is better to choose how to whiten age spots on the face together with a beautician. It will take into account the type, condition of the skin, as well as the causes of hyperpigmentation. Before using any new cosmetic product, try it on a small area of ​​your skin.

How to remove age spots at a cosmetologist

The most effective cosmetic procedures in the treatment of age spots are hardware, injection, and chemical peels.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels improve skin tone and even out it. They are often used as a way to remove senile, sun, and other age spots. Components with an active action in the composition of peels penetrate to a certain depth, controllably damage skin cells, which triggers its regeneration.

The following types of peelings are effective for fighting age spots:

• Based on mandelic acid – gently exfoliates, does not require restoration. It works gradually, and therefore several procedures are required.
• Yellow, or retinoic – removes hyperpigmentation quickly, but after it the skin needs recovery within 5-7 days.
• Salicylic – exfoliates the surface layer, effective against freckles and age spots that appear due to the sun.

If pigmentation is pronounced, medium peels, such as Jessner or PRX T33, will help to whiten the skin.

Some peels are seasonal treatments. They are not recommended for use in the summer when the sun is active. If age spots appear in the summer months due to ultraviolet radiation, all-weather treatments will be needed to get rid of them. For example, BioRePeel peeling with an additional effect of biorevitalization and moisturizing can be used throughout the year.

Injection treatments

Some injection treatments are good for treating facial pigmentation and improve skin condition. The most commonly used mesotherapy, biorevitalization, bioreparation.

During mesotherapy, preparations containing vitamins or other beneficial substances are injected into the skin. As part of cocktails for whitening, lightening, vitamin C is used. Additionally, the preparation may contain hyaluronic acid for moisturizing, phospholipids that increase elasticity, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, active substances that destroy melanin, anti-inflammatory and other components. Mesotherapy is carried out in courses. Its effect is cumulative. Pigment spots gradually lighten, and the skin condition improves.

Biorevitalization is an injection technique in which preparations based on hyaluronic acid are injected into the skin. Biorevitalizants may contain additional components, including those acting against hyperpigmentation (most often it is vitamin C or succinic acid). Biorevitalization is carried out in courses. It moisturizes the skin, stimulates its renewal, and is often used as a way to restore normal pigmentation.

Bioreparation is a procedure for rejuvenation. For her, cocktails based on hyaluronic acid with active ingredients are used. The beautician introduces them in such a way as to ensure the delivery of nutrients to a certain depth. Bioreparation is used to combat hyperpigmentation. For this, preparations with brightening peptides, cocktails containing vitamin C or other active substances that destroy melanin or slow down its production are used.

Hardware cosmetology

Among the effective ways to permanently get rid of age spots are hardware techniques. They may work in different ways. Some procedures start skin renewal, improve its condition, while others act selectively against age spots.

Most often used:

• photorejuvenation;
• laser techniques: resurfacing or peeling.

Phototherapy, or IPL therapy, uses pulses of light. They focus on target cells that are darker than the surrounding tissue. These are cells that contain melanin and form a pigment spot. Cells absorb light, after which it is converted into thermal energy and destroys them. At the same time, healthy tissues are not damaged. Phototherapy is safe, easily tolerated, and does not cause complications. With its help, you can get rid of both those that have arisen due to the sun, and age or other age spots.

Laser techniques are among the most effective for removing pigmentation. To remove pigmentation and even out skin color, you can use laser resurfacing or peeling.

During laser resurfacing, the laser penetrates the skin to a predetermined depth and precisely destroys target cells (including those containing melanin). The depth of penetration of the rays can be adjusted, and this allows you to remove pigment spots of different types. Fractional CO2 laser peeling works in a complex way. In the deep layers, it destroys old and pigmented cells, starting the regeneration process, and on the surface it evaporates the stratum corneum, removing not only pigmentation, but also wrinkles, post-acne, scars and other imperfections. Laser peeling allows you to cure age spots that have arisen both due to ultraviolet radiation and for other reasons.

It is better to choose how to treat age spots together with a beautician. He will determine the reason why they appeared, assess the condition of the skin, and then decide whether it is possible to remove age spots on the face or body, and how best to do it.

Peelings from 3500 ₽

Facial mesotherapy from 320 ₽

Biorevitalization from 9270 ₽

Photorejuvenation from 9200 ₽

Laser resurfacing of the face from 7000 ₽

CO2 laser peeling from 7000 ₽

Prevention of age spots

If the skin is prone to hyperpigmentation and dark spots often appear on it, it is important to observe the following preventive measures.