What are age spots and what causes them. How can you identify age spots on your skin. What are the most effective treatments for age spots. Are there natural remedies for reducing the appearance of age spots. Can age spots be prevented. When should you see a doctor about age spots. How do age spots differ from other types of skin discoloration.

What Are Age Spots and How Do They Form?

Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are small dark areas on the skin that vary in size and can appear on different parts of the body. These spots are flat and usually tan, brown, or black in color. They typically occur on sun-exposed areas of the skin and are very common in adults over 50, though they can affect younger people as well.

Age spots form when melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, becomes clumped or is produced in high concentrations. This is often triggered by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which accelerates the production of melanin. Over time, especially with repeated sun exposure, melanin can become concentrated in certain areas, forming age spots.

Common Locations for Age Spots

• Face and forehead
• Back of hands
• Shoulders
• Upper back
• Forearms

Are age spots harmful? Generally, age spots are harmless and don’t require medical treatment. However, they can be cosmetically concerning for some individuals. It’s important to note that while age spots themselves are benign, their appearance can sometimes be similar to certain types of skin cancer. Therefore, any new or changing spots should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out more serious conditions.

Causes and Risk Factors for Developing Age Spots

Understanding the causes of age spots can help in prevention and management. While the primary cause is sun exposure, several factors contribute to their development:

1. UV light exposure: Both natural sunlight and artificial UV light (such as from tanning beds) can lead to age spots.
2. Aging: As we get older, our skin becomes more susceptible to UV damage.
3. Skin type: People with fair skin are more prone to developing age spots.
4. Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to developing age spots.
5. Certain medications: Some drugs can increase skin sensitivity to UV light.

Can age spots be prevented? While it’s not always possible to prevent age spots entirely, there are steps you can take to minimize their development:

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30
• Wear protective clothing when outdoors
• Avoid peak sun hours (usually between 10 am and 4 pm)
• Use hats and sunglasses for additional protection
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps

Identifying Age Spots: Characteristics and Differentiation

Recognizing age spots is crucial for proper skin care and early detection of potential skin issues. Age spots typically have the following characteristics:

• Flat, oval areas of pigmentation
• Tan to dark brown in color
• Occur on sun-exposed skin
• Can range from freckle-size to about 1/2 inch across
• Can group together, making them more noticeable

How can you differentiate age spots from other skin conditions? While age spots are generally harmless, it’s important to distinguish them from more serious skin conditions. Here are some key differences:

• Age spots have a consistent color throughout
• They don’t change in appearance over time
• Age spots are not raised and have the same texture as surrounding skin
• They’re not painful or itchy

When should you be concerned about a spot on your skin? Consult a dermatologist if you notice any of the following:

• Darkly pigmented growth
• Rapid increase in size
• Irregular border
• Unusual combination of colors
• Accompanied by itching, redness, tenderness, or bleeding

Treatment Options for Age Spots: Medical and Cosmetic Approaches

While age spots don’t require treatment for medical reasons, many people choose to lighten or remove them for cosmetic purposes. There are several treatment options available, ranging from over-the-counter products to professional medical procedures.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

These products are widely available and can be effective for mild cases:

• Skin-lightening creams containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, or glycolic acid
• Retinoid creams (derivatives of vitamin A)
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) for gentle exfoliation
• Vitamin C serums to brighten skin and fade dark spots

Professional Treatments

For more stubborn or extensive age spots, professional treatments may be more effective:

• Laser therapy: Uses focused light to target melanin-producing cells
• Chemical peels: Remove the top layer of skin to promote new growth
• Cryotherapy: Freezes the age spots with liquid nitrogen
• Microdermabrasion: Gently sands down the outer layer of skin
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment: Uses light energy to target pigmented areas

How effective are these treatments for age spots? The effectiveness of treatments can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the age spots. Professional treatments tend to show faster and more dramatic results, but they may require multiple sessions and can be more expensive. Over-the-counter treatments are generally less expensive and have fewer side effects, but they may take longer to show results.

Natural Remedies and Home Treatments for Age Spots

For those preferring natural approaches, several home remedies may help fade age spots over time. While these methods are generally safe, it’s important to note that their effectiveness can vary, and results may take longer to appear compared to medical treatments.

Popular Natural Remedies for Age Spots

• Lemon juice: Contains citric acid that may help lighten dark spots
• Aloe vera: Has natural healing and lightening properties
• Apple cider vinegar: May help exfoliate and lighten skin
• Green tea extract: Contains antioxidants that may help with skin cell repair
• Buttermilk: Contains lactic acid, which may help exfoliate the skin
• Papaya: Contains enzymes that may help exfoliate and lighten skin

Do natural remedies really work for age spots? While some people report success with natural remedies, scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited. These treatments are generally safe to try, but results can be subtle and may take several weeks or months to become noticeable. It’s important to be patient and consistent with application.

Are there any precautions to take when using natural remedies? Yes, consider the following:

• Always do a patch test before applying any new substance to your skin
• Be cautious with citrus-based remedies as they can increase sun sensitivity
• Don’t expect overnight results; natural remedies take time
• Consult a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or other skin conditions

Prevention Strategies: Protecting Your Skin from Age Spots

Preventing age spots is often easier and more effective than treating them after they’ve appeared. By incorporating some simple habits into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing age spots.

Key Prevention Strategies

1. Sun Protection: This is the most crucial step in preventing age spots.
   • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily
   • Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if swimming or sweating
   • Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts
2. Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Limit sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm when UV rays are strongest
3. Use Protective Accessories: Sunglasses and umbrellas can provide additional protection
4. Boost Skin Health: Consume a diet rich in antioxidants and stay hydrated
5. Regular Skin Checks: Monitor your skin for any changes and consult a dermatologist if needed

Is it ever too late to start protecting your skin from age spots? It’s never too late to start a sun protection routine. While you can’t undo past damage, you can prevent further damage and slow the development of new age spots. Even if you already have age spots, protecting your skin can help prevent them from darkening and reduce the likelihood of developing more.

When to Consult a Dermatologist About Age Spots

While age spots are generally harmless, there are situations where it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. Professional evaluation can help ensure that what you’re seeing is indeed an age spot and not a more serious skin condition.

Reasons to See a Dermatologist

• Rapid changes in the size, shape, or color of a spot
• Spots that are very dark or have an unusual color
• Spots with irregular borders
• Spots that are accompanied by itching, redness, or bleeding
• A spot that stands out as being different from others (the “ugly duckling” sign)
• You have a history of skin cancer or are at high risk

What can you expect during a dermatologist visit for age spots? During your appointment, the dermatologist will likely:

1. Perform a visual examination of your skin
2. Use a dermatoscope to look more closely at suspicious spots
3. Ask about your medical history and sun exposure habits
4. Possibly perform a biopsy if a spot looks suspicious
5. Discuss treatment options if desired for cosmetic reasons

How often should you have your skin checked by a professional? For most people, an annual skin check is sufficient. However, if you have a history of skin cancer or many moles, your dermatologist may recommend more frequent checks.

Age Spots vs. Other Types of Skin Discoloration

Age spots are just one type of skin discoloration. Understanding the differences between various types of pigmentation issues can help you better care for your skin and know when to seek medical advice.

Common Types of Skin Discoloration

1. Age Spots (Solar Lentigines):
   • Flat, tan to dark brown spots
   • Caused by sun exposure
   • Common in older adults
2. Freckles:
   • Small, light brown spots
   • Often genetic, but darken with sun exposure
   • Common in fair-skinned individuals
3. Melasma:
   • Larger patches of darkened skin
   • Often triggered by hormonal changes
   • More common in women
4. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation:
   • Dark spots left after injury or inflammation
   • Can occur after acne, eczema, or other skin conditions
5. Skin Cancer:
   • Can appear as dark spots or patches
   • Often has irregular borders or changing appearance
   • Requires immediate medical attention

How can you tell the difference between age spots and more serious skin conditions? While a definitive diagnosis should always come from a healthcare professional, here are some general guidelines:

• Age spots typically have a consistent color and don’t change over time
• They are flat and don’t cause any symptoms like itching or pain
• Age spots usually appear on sun-exposed areas
• They often occur in groups

In contrast, potentially serious skin conditions might:

• Have irregular borders
• Change in size, shape, or color
• Be raised or have a different texture from surrounding skin
• Cause symptoms like itching, bleeding, or pain

When in doubt, it’s always best to have any new or changing skin spots evaluated by a dermatologist. Early detection is key in treating many skin conditions, including skin cancer.

Dark spots on the skin: Causes, treatments, and remedies

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, occur when some areas of the skin produce more melanin than usual. Melanin gives the eyes, skin, and hair their color.

Dark spots on the skin are not a cause for concern and do not need treatment, though people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Depending on the cause, people may call some types of dark spots on the skin age spots or sunspots.

In this article, we look at what causes dark spots on the skin and how people can remove them using dermatological treatments and home remedies.

Dark spots on the skin can range from light brown to dark brown. The color of dark spots may depend on the tone of a person’s skin. The spots are the same texture as the skin and are not painful.

Dark spots also vary in size and can develop on any part of the body but are most common in areas often exposed to the sun.

Dark spots are common in the following areas:

• back of the hands
• face
• back
• shoulders

In people with darker skin, a spot that is a few shades darker than the skin usually fades away within 6 to 12 months. Deeper coloration can take years to fade. Deep color changes often appear blue or gray, though a spot may also be a much darker brown than a person’s natural skin color.

There are several different causes of dark spots, as we describe here:

Sun damage

Also called sunspots, solar lentigines, or liver spots, people can develop dark spots on their skin after being exposed to the sun or tanning beds.

Areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, hands, or arms, are most likely to develop sun spots.

Hormonal changes

Melasma is a skin condition that leads to small patches of skin discoloration. The condition is more common in women, especially during pregnancy.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hormones may trigger melasma.

Medication side effects

Certain medications can increase skin pigmentation and lead to dark spots. The most common culprits are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tetracyclines, and psychotropic drugs.

Inflammation

Dark spots can develop after a bout of inflammation on the skin. Inflammation may occur for various reasons that include eczema, psoriasis, injury to the skin, and acne.

Wound healing

Dark spots may remain after an insect bite, burn, or cut heals. These may fade with time.

Irritation

Cosmetic skin or hair products can irritate the skin, causing dark patches to form.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause areas of the skin to become darker.

Conditions associated with diabetes include acanthosis nigricans, which causes darkened, velvety skin, and shin spots or diabetic dermopathy, which people may confuse with age spots.

Dark spots on the skin do not require treatment, but some people may want to remove the spots for cosmetic reasons.

A dermatologist can offer creams or procedures to lighten dark spots, or in some cases, remove them. Procedures are more expensive than creams and are more likely to cause side effects, though they tend to work faster.

The best treatment option may depend on the cause, the size of the dark spot, and the area of the body.

A dermatologist may recommend one of the following treatments for dark spots on the skin:

Laser treatment

Different types of lasers are available. The most common laser to treat dark spots on the skin uses an intense pulse light laser. The light targets melanin and breaks up the dark spots.

Microdermabrasion

During microdermabrasion, a dermatologist uses a special device that has an abrasive surface to remove the outer layer of the skin. This treatment promotes new collagen growth, which may help reduce spots.

Chemical peels

A chemical peel involves applying a solution to the skin, which exfoliates the surface, leading to new skin growth. It may gradually fade dark spots on the skin.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a procedure that involves applying liquid nitrogen to the dark patches to freeze them, which injures the skin cells. The skin often heals lighter afterward.

Prescription skin-lightening cream

Prescription-lightening cream works by bleaching the skin. It typically works gradually and takes several months to decrease the appearance of dark spots.

Hydroquinone, which is the active ingredient in the creams, prevents the skin from producing melanin. Prescription products tend to have a strength of 3–4 percent.

Injectable skin lightening products are available, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not recommend them. There is not enough evidence to suggest that they work, and there may be associated health risks.

In addition to dermatological procedures and prescription medications, people may find that some home remedies might fade dark spots on the skin, as the following sections discuss.

Over-the-counter creams

Over-the-counter skin creams to lighten skin are not as strong as prescription medications, but they may also work.

Creams and serums contain various ingredients, including retinol or alpha hydroxy acid, which may speed up the exfoliation of the skin and promote new skin growth.

When looking for a skin-lightening cream, always choose one recommended by a dermatologist, as some products can be harmful.

Natural remedies

Products with certain natural ingredients may help treat dark spots on the skin.

Researchers published a systematic review of clinical studies that used natural products to treat dark spots on the skin. They looked at several ingredients including niacinamide (a form of vitamin B-3), soy, licorice extracts, and mulberry.

Although studies were limited, the researchers said that these natural treatments showed promise in lightening hyperpigmentation.

Results of a small-scale 2017 study suggest that applying an aloe vera gel to the skin could help reduce melasma during pregnancy after 5 weeks.

Cosmetics

Although cosmetics do not lighten dark spots, they might cover them up. People can consider using a cream-based concealer to decrease the appearance of spots.

People may wish to keep in mind that many of the home remedies that webpages recommend may have side effects or no evidence of effectiveness. Examples include lemon and apple cider vinegar. No studies back the claims that these treatments work.

In some cases, unproven treatments may aggravate the skin. For example, the American Society for Dermatological Surgery do not recommend lemon juice or abrasive scrubs, as these methods could make dark spots worse.

Some skin lightening products can do more harm than good. Many contain ingredients that can harm the skin or overall health, such as mercury or steroids. Applying these can cause pimples, rashes, and fragile skin over time.

Share on PinterestA doctor or dermatologist may use a Wood’s lamp skin exam to diagnose dark spots on the skin.

A doctor or dermatologist can often work out the cause of dark spots on the skin by examining them and taking a medical history.

During a physical exam, the healthcare professional might perform a Wood’s lamp skin exam, where they view the spots through a special device that emits black light.

In some instances, specific characteristics of a spot might require more tests to make sure skin cancer is not causing the spot.

Anyone can develop dark spots on the skin. Certain risk factors appear to increase a person’s chances including:

• sun exposure
• pregnancy
• skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis
• trauma or injury to the skin
• medications that increase pigmentation
• liver disease
• diabetes

It may not always be possible to prevent dark spots on the skin from developing. For example, hormonal changes during pregnancy that may lead to melasma are not preventable.

There are, however, a few things people can do to decrease the chances of dark spots and prevent them from getting darker:

• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even when the sun is not bright.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the skin further.
• Treat skin conditions, such as acne, which may lead to inflammation.
• Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when it tends to be strongest.

In most cases, dark spots on the skin are not harmful. But in some instances, it might be hard to tell the difference between a dark spot and other skin changes, such as melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer.

People who are unsure what a dark spot is or have not been able to get rid of it can see a doctor to find out more.

It is important to talk to a doctor if any dark spot on the skin:

• appears suddenly
• itches
• tingles
• bleeds
• changes color or size

Learn about how to identify melanoma and other forms of skin cancer here.

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, can have a range of causes. They are usually harmless and do not need treatment. If a person wants to get rid of dark spots, they can try a range of treatments, including working with a dermatologist for cosmetic procedures or using over-the-counter products.

The effectiveness of treatment may depend on the cause of the dark spots and their extent. Dark spots on the skin may not completely fade. It may take a while to see a difference, but treatment often lightens the spots.

Dark spots on the skin: Causes, treatments, and remedies

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, occur when some areas of the skin produce more melanin than usual. Melanin gives the eyes, skin, and hair their color.

Dark spots on the skin are not a cause for concern and do not need treatment, though people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Depending on the cause, people may call some types of dark spots on the skin age spots or sunspots.

In this article, we look at what causes dark spots on the skin and how people can remove them using dermatological treatments and home remedies.

Dark spots on the skin can range from light brown to dark brown. The color of dark spots may depend on the tone of a person’s skin. The spots are the same texture as the skin and are not painful.

Dark spots also vary in size and can develop on any part of the body but are most common in areas often exposed to the sun.

Dark spots are common in the following areas:

• back of the hands
• face
• back
• shoulders

In people with darker skin, a spot that is a few shades darker than the skin usually fades away within 6 to 12 months. Deeper coloration can take years to fade. Deep color changes often appear blue or gray, though a spot may also be a much darker brown than a person’s natural skin color.

There are several different causes of dark spots, as we describe here:

Sun damage

Also called sunspots, solar lentigines, or liver spots, people can develop dark spots on their skin after being exposed to the sun or tanning beds.

Areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, hands, or arms, are most likely to develop sun spots.

Hormonal changes

Melasma is a skin condition that leads to small patches of skin discoloration. The condition is more common in women, especially during pregnancy.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hormones may trigger melasma.

Medication side effects

Certain medications can increase skin pigmentation and lead to dark spots. The most common culprits are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tetracyclines, and psychotropic drugs.

Inflammation

Dark spots can develop after a bout of inflammation on the skin. Inflammation may occur for various reasons that include eczema, psoriasis, injury to the skin, and acne.

Wound healing

Dark spots may remain after an insect bite, burn, or cut heals. These may fade with time.

Irritation

Cosmetic skin or hair products can irritate the skin, causing dark patches to form.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause areas of the skin to become darker.

Conditions associated with diabetes include acanthosis nigricans, which causes darkened, velvety skin, and shin spots or diabetic dermopathy, which people may confuse with age spots.

Dark spots on the skin do not require treatment, but some people may want to remove the spots for cosmetic reasons.

A dermatologist can offer creams or procedures to lighten dark spots, or in some cases, remove them. Procedures are more expensive than creams and are more likely to cause side effects, though they tend to work faster.

The best treatment option may depend on the cause, the size of the dark spot, and the area of the body.

A dermatologist may recommend one of the following treatments for dark spots on the skin:

Laser treatment

Different types of lasers are available. The most common laser to treat dark spots on the skin uses an intense pulse light laser. The light targets melanin and breaks up the dark spots.

Microdermabrasion

During microdermabrasion, a dermatologist uses a special device that has an abrasive surface to remove the outer layer of the skin. This treatment promotes new collagen growth, which may help reduce spots.

Chemical peels

A chemical peel involves applying a solution to the skin, which exfoliates the surface, leading to new skin growth. It may gradually fade dark spots on the skin.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a procedure that involves applying liquid nitrogen to the dark patches to freeze them, which injures the skin cells. The skin often heals lighter afterward.

Prescription skin-lightening cream

Prescription-lightening cream works by bleaching the skin. It typically works gradually and takes several months to decrease the appearance of dark spots.

Hydroquinone, which is the active ingredient in the creams, prevents the skin from producing melanin. Prescription products tend to have a strength of 3–4 percent.

Injectable skin lightening products are available, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not recommend them. There is not enough evidence to suggest that they work, and there may be associated health risks.

In addition to dermatological procedures and prescription medications, people may find that some home remedies might fade dark spots on the skin, as the following sections discuss.

Over-the-counter creams

Over-the-counter skin creams to lighten skin are not as strong as prescription medications, but they may also work.

Creams and serums contain various ingredients, including retinol or alpha hydroxy acid, which may speed up the exfoliation of the skin and promote new skin growth.

When looking for a skin-lightening cream, always choose one recommended by a dermatologist, as some products can be harmful.

Natural remedies

Products with certain natural ingredients may help treat dark spots on the skin.

Researchers published a systematic review of clinical studies that used natural products to treat dark spots on the skin. They looked at several ingredients including niacinamide (a form of vitamin B-3), soy, licorice extracts, and mulberry.

Although studies were limited, the researchers said that these natural treatments showed promise in lightening hyperpigmentation.

Results of a small-scale 2017 study suggest that applying an aloe vera gel to the skin could help reduce melasma during pregnancy after 5 weeks.

Cosmetics

Although cosmetics do not lighten dark spots, they might cover them up. People can consider using a cream-based concealer to decrease the appearance of spots.

People may wish to keep in mind that many of the home remedies that webpages recommend may have side effects or no evidence of effectiveness. Examples include lemon and apple cider vinegar. No studies back the claims that these treatments work.

In some cases, unproven treatments may aggravate the skin. For example, the American Society for Dermatological Surgery do not recommend lemon juice or abrasive scrubs, as these methods could make dark spots worse.

Some skin lightening products can do more harm than good. Many contain ingredients that can harm the skin or overall health, such as mercury or steroids. Applying these can cause pimples, rashes, and fragile skin over time.

Share on PinterestA doctor or dermatologist may use a Wood’s lamp skin exam to diagnose dark spots on the skin.

A doctor or dermatologist can often work out the cause of dark spots on the skin by examining them and taking a medical history.

During a physical exam, the healthcare professional might perform a Wood’s lamp skin exam, where they view the spots through a special device that emits black light.

In some instances, specific characteristics of a spot might require more tests to make sure skin cancer is not causing the spot.

Anyone can develop dark spots on the skin. Certain risk factors appear to increase a person’s chances including:

• sun exposure
• pregnancy
• skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis
• trauma or injury to the skin
• medications that increase pigmentation
• liver disease
• diabetes

It may not always be possible to prevent dark spots on the skin from developing. For example, hormonal changes during pregnancy that may lead to melasma are not preventable.

There are, however, a few things people can do to decrease the chances of dark spots and prevent them from getting darker:

• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even when the sun is not bright.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the skin further.
• Treat skin conditions, such as acne, which may lead to inflammation.
• Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when it tends to be strongest.

In most cases, dark spots on the skin are not harmful. But in some instances, it might be hard to tell the difference between a dark spot and other skin changes, such as melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer.

People who are unsure what a dark spot is or have not been able to get rid of it can see a doctor to find out more.

It is important to talk to a doctor if any dark spot on the skin:

• appears suddenly
• itches
• tingles
• bleeds
• changes color or size

Learn about how to identify melanoma and other forms of skin cancer here.

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, can have a range of causes. They are usually harmless and do not need treatment. If a person wants to get rid of dark spots, they can try a range of treatments, including working with a dermatologist for cosmetic procedures or using over-the-counter products.

The effectiveness of treatment may depend on the cause of the dark spots and their extent. Dark spots on the skin may not completely fade. It may take a while to see a difference, but treatment often lightens the spots.

Melanoma Skin Cancer | Cedars-Sinai

Overview

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. Between 40 to 50% of all cancer cases diagnosed every year are skin cancer.

There are two main types of skin cancer: malignant melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer

Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer – The the most common types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma forms in the thin, upper layer of the skin (epidermis). It is usually found on the sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the neck and head. About 75% of all skin cancers are of this type.

They are slow growing and do not usually spread. After treatment, basal cell carcinoma may grow again on the same spot or appear elsewhere on the skin. Between 35 to 50% of people who develop one basal cell carcinoma will grow a new skin cancer within five years of diagnosis.

Accounting for about 20% of all skin cancers, squamous cell carcinomas also form on the top, thin layer of the skin and are commonly seen on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, lips, neck or back of the hand. However, it can also develop in other locations, including the genital area. Squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and more likely to spread to other parts of the body.

Less common nonmelanomas (e.g., Kaposi’s sarcoma and cutaneous lymphoma) make up less than one percent of nonmelanoma cancers.

Melanoma – Melanomas account for only four percent of all skin cancer cases but are far more dangerous. Of all skin cancer-related deaths, 79% are from melanoma. In this disease, cancer develops in cells (melanocytes) that produce skin pigmentation. A black or brown spot appears, typically, on the torso of males and lower legs of females. It may also form on the palm of the hands, soles of the feet and under the nails. Very rarely it appears in parts of the body not covered by skin, such as the mouth, eyes, vagina and internal organs. Melanoma is more likely than nonmelanoma skin cancer to spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body.

Symptoms

Nonmelanoma skin cancer may cause the following symptoms:

• Spots or bumps that grow over time (a few months to a year or two) or that appear as a sore that does not heal within three months.
• Basal cell carcinomas may appear as flat, firm, pale areas or small, raised, translucent, pink or red, shiny, waxy areas with visible blood vessels or depressed center areas that bleed when slightly injured.
• Large basal cell carcinomas have oozing, crusty areas.
• Squamous cell carcinomas may look like small lumps with an uneven, rough surface or flat reddish patch that slowly grows.

Melanoma skin cancer may appear as

• Spots, sores, lumps, blemishes or markings on the skin that change in shape, size or color.
• Skin may become reddish, crusty or scaly.
• Skin may ooze, bleed or swell or may feel painful, scratchy or tender.

Causes and Risk Factors

The following factors increase your risk of getting skin cancer:

• Frequent exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunlight is the main source of this exposure. Tanning lamps and tanning booths are other sources of UV radiation.
• Fair skin. Caucasians are 20 times more likely to develop skin cancer than African Americans. Fair-skinned individuals with red or blonde hair and skin that freckles or burns easily are also at greater risk.
• 50 years or older. Half of all melanoma cases occur in this age group. However, some melanoma cases also occur in people age 20 to 30 years. In fact, the most common cancer among people under 30 years old is melanoma.
• Family history. Individuals whose immediate relatives (mother, father, sister, brother, child) have been diagnosed with melanoma are considered at high risk. About 10% of melanoma cases show a family history of the disease.
• Reduced immunity. Individuals who have received medications that suppress the immune system, such as organ transplant recipients, are more likely to develop melanoma.
• Male gender. Men are two times more likely than women to develop basal cell carcinoma and three times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma.
• Exposure to chemicals. Arsenic (an ingredient in pesticides), paraffin, industrial tar, coal and certain types of oil may increase risk.
• Exposure to radiation. Individuals who have undergone radiation treatment are at risk to develop nonmelanoma skin cancer in the irradiated area.
• Severe skin injury. Scarring from burns, bone infections and other severe inflammatory skin diseases are risk factors.
• Psoriasis treatment. Patients receiving psoralen and UV light treatments (PUVA) may be at risk.
• Most people have moles, which are generally harmless. However, certain types can change in appearance, color or size and develop into melanoma. To distinguish between a normal mole and a melanoma, use the ABCD rule:
• Asymmetry – Half the mole looks different from the other half
• Border – The edges of the mole are irregular or ragged
• Color – Moles are non-uniform in color, and
• Diameter – Normal moles are typically smaller than six millimeters (a quarter inch) in diameter. Melanomas are generally bigger, although recently doctors have seen melanomas between three and six millimeters in diameter.

Diagnosis

A doctor will take a complete medical history and perform a physical exam. If abnormal markings are found, the doctor will perform additional tests. One such test is the biopsy, in which a skin sample is taken and examined in the lab. If lymph nodes are too large or too firm, a lymph node biopsy will also be done using a fine needle to remove a small piece of tissue from the suspected tumor. If this procedure does not indicate a clear result, a surgeon may remove the lymph node for further examination, usually in a doctor’s office or at an outpatient clinic.

Treatment

Skin cancer may be treated with:

• Surgery to remove the malignant area
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy or
• A combination of all of these.

The specific treatment will depend on the type of skin cancer, how advanced it is, how aggressive it is, where it is located and the general health of the patient.

Prevention

Skin cancer can be cured if detected early. The American Cancer Society recommends a cancer-related checkup with skin examination every three years for people 20 to 40 years old and annual exams for persons over 40.

Doctors suggest that patients perform monthly self-examinations in front of a full-length mirror. All areas of the body must be checked, including palms and soles, back of the torso and back of the legs. One out of three melanomas in men are on the back.

Other simple precautions are:

• Avoid being outdoors too long in intense sunlight. Peak hours to avoid are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wear protective clothing when outdoors. You can protect yourself by simply wearing a shirt and a broad-rimmed hat.
• Use sunscreen. Sunscreen with SPF factor of 15 or higher should be applied to sun-exposed skin. Many sunscreens wear off from sweating or swimming and should be re-applied. Use sunscreen even on a hazy or cloudy day. Ultraviolet rays can still penetrate the atmosphere.
• Wear sunglasses. UV absorption of 99 to 100% is recommended to provide good protection for the eyes and the surrounding skin.
• Avoid other sources of UV light. Tanning beds and sun lamps can deliver damaging amounts of UV light to the skin and should be avoided or used lightly.
• Provide sun protection for children. Children should be cautioned about the harmful effects of excessive sun exposure. Parents should instill in their children the habit of using sunscreen and protective clothing for outdoor activities.
• Learn more about skin cancer. Many organizations, including the National Institutes of Health and the American Cancer Society, provide public service and information materials.

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional’s instructions.

Why Do I Have These Brown Spots on My Face? | Denver Health

I get a lot of questions in the Denver Health Dermatology clinic about brown spots appearing on skin and more importantly how to get rid of them. This is an especially important topic as the weather gets warmer.

First let’s start with explaining why you have them and how can you prevent them and then we will get into how to treat them. 

Brown spots are caused by the overproduction of melanin in your skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives your skin, hair and eyes their color. It is produced by cells called melanocytes. Think of melanocytes as sponges that soak up sunlight. The more ultraviolet (UV) exposure your skin gets, the more saturated with melanin your sponges will get. Contrary to popular belief dark-skinned individuals do not have more melanocytes. Light and dark-skinned people have similar numbers of melanocytes on our skin. The difference is in the pigment-containing organelles, called melanosomes, which are larger, more numerous and more pigmented in dark compared to light-skin people.

To make this quite simple, there are four main reasons that you would see brown spots on your skin:

• Sun exposure
• Hormonal changes
• Genetics
• Age

Brown spots, known medically as solar lentigo (lentigines plural), are a common part of the aging process of your skin. Many people call them “age spots” or “liver spots” but dermatologists prefer to call them “wisdom spots” because we collect more of them the older/wiser we get. Roughly 75 percent of Caucasian people over the age of 60 are likely to have one or more of these lesions. These spots develop in response to sun damage. Somewhere in your life, you must have not used sunscreen regularly, may have enjoyed tanning out in the sun a bit too much or you used tanning beds.

For us women, some other reasons for brown spots or darkening of the skin on the face are hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy. Yes, we women have yet another reason to stress when pregnant. Don’t worry, the pregnancy glow is still real but while your acne may clear during pregnancy and your hair may start growing like weeds, the skin on your face may start to experience a hormone-related darkening called melasma. It is known as “the mask of pregnancy” and it appears as brown patches on the upper lip, forehead and cheeks. Suddenly, you have a brown mustache! It is very common in moms-to-be but also in women who take birth control pills. It can simply be due to changes in the estrogen and progesterone levels that happen during the regular menstrual cycle too.

Is There Anything I Can Do to Prevent Getting More Brown Spots?

Of course! Sun exposure is the biggest factor that can contribute to darkening of the skin. Good UV protection includes:

• Wearing Sunscreen daily with an SPF 30 or higher
• Wearing sun protective clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF)
• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella to block the sun
• Re-applying sunscreen every two hours when out in the sun

I’ve heard patients say, “I do not like how sunscreen makes me look,” or “I am allergic to all sunscreens,” or “I do not like how it makes my skin feel” – yes, we have heard it all. Let me give you the news, the right sunscreen for you does already exist but you will need to find it through trial and error. I always tell my patients the best sunscreen is the one you will use!

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to UV radiation from the sun in your zip code. You can track it on your smartphone through the SunWise UV Index App to plan your outdoor adventures responsibly.

Another app I recommend downloading is called Sunface. If you are not convinced yet that sun protection is worth the effort, take a selfie with the Sunface App and find out what your face will look like in five, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years if you use tanning beds or if you do not use sun protection. It is rather scary.

Additionally, make sure to moisturize your skin well and use a gentle facial cleanser such as Cerave or Vanicream wash because trauma to the skin, dryness or irritation can also worsen the darkening of your skin.

How Can I Treat the Brown Spots That I Already Have on My Face?

Brown spots are not dangerous. The only reason to have them treated is cosmetic – because we feel it will improve our appearance, make us look younger and ultimately enhance our self-esteem. Treating existing hyperpigmentation is harder than preventing it and is much more expensive.

• Lightening creams: These are easily accessible but are they safe? There are over-the-counter skin-lightening creams such as kojic acid serums, vitamin C serums, lactic, azelaic and glycolic acid preparations, which are relatively safe. There are also over-the-counter and prescription strength hydroquinone creams, which are rather controversial because they increase the risk for developing a skin condition called ochronosis. This is a blue-gray pigmentation caused by the long term use of hydroquinone. It may or may not go away after stopping the use of hydroquinone. My advice is to be super cautious with this one if you do not want more problems.
• Retinoids or Vitamin A derivatives: These are also helpful in the fight for younger and lighter skin. They stimulate the production of collagen and exfoliate the skin gently by speeding up the cell turn over. They may cause irritation to the skin so start using your retinoid slowly – 2-3 times a week at first, then increase frequency of use gradually, moisturize and use excellent sun protection. An over-the-counter Vitamin A derivative called Differin (adapalene) gel used to require a prescription. I recommend that you start by using this product first before moving on to something stronger and more irritating like Tazorac, which does require a prescription.
• Cryotherapy: Your dermatologist or medical provider can perform this procedure in the office but it is not usually covered by insurance because it is considered cosmetic. It also has the potential to leave you with permanent white spots or even more hyperpigmentation.
• Laser treatment: Many options are also available in dermatology facilities or Medical Spas in the community. However, it is important to find the right provider to perform those treatments on you in order to avoid scarring or more complications.  The laser technician also needs to be familiar with settings for your skin color especially if you are a dark-skinned individual or otherwise you are risking permanent skin discoloration.
• Chemical peels and Intense pulse light (IPL) treatments: These can lighten the skin as well. IPL is a pulsed light device that distributes a broad wavelength of energy that is absorbed by the pigment of the brown spot and destroys it. TCL and glycolic acid chemical peels are also very effective with fighting sun spots by exfoliating the skin and getting rid of the top layer of damaged skin.

Is it Just an Age Spot or Skin Cancer?

The potential signs of skin cancer (melanoma) can be identified with the ABCDE acronym:

• A stands for asymmetry. One half looks different than the other.
• B stands for border. If the borders are irregular, jagged or not perfectly round.
• C is for color. Is the color darker, uneven or more than one shade?
• D is for diameter. Is the diameter bigger than a pencil eraser?
• E is for evolving. Have you noticed any changes in size, color or shape over the past few months or weeks? Is it itchy or bleeding?

If you see any of these signs, do not hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or a dermatologist to evaluate it. I always tell my patients better safe than sorry.

Denver Health Dermatology

Advanced treatments from expert skin care specialists. 

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Acanthosis nigricans – NHS

Acanthosis nigricans is the name for dry, dark patches of skin that usually appear in the armpits, neck or groin. It could be a sign of an underlying condition, so it needs to be checked by a GP.

Check if you have acanthosis nigricans

The main symptom of acanthosis nigricans is patches of skin that are darker and thicker than usual.

They can appear anywhere on the body.

The patches are dry and feel similar to velvet.

Credit:

They’re most common in skin folds, such as the armpits, neck or groin.

Credit:

Some people also have tiny growths (skin tags) on the patches.

Credit:

The patches often appear gradually without any other symptoms.

Sometimes the skin may be itchy.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if you have:

• new dark patches on your skin
• any skin changes you’re unsure about

Information:

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update: how to contact a GP

It’s still important to get help from a GP if you need it. To contact your GP surgery:

• visit their website
• use the NHS App
• call them

Find out about using the NHS during COVID-19

What happens at your appointment

Although acanthosis nigricans is usually harmless, it’s best to get any skin changes checked out.

Rarely, it can be a sign of something more serious, such as cancer.

A GP can usually tell if it’s acanthosis nigricans by looking at your skin.

You may need some tests to find out what’s causing the patches.

Causes of acanthosis nigricans

The most common cause of acanthosis nigricans is being very overweight.

Other causes include:

Sometimes healthy people with no other conditions get acanthosis nigricans. This is more common in people with black or brown skin.

Treating acanthosis nigricans

Once a GP knows what’s causing acanthosis nigricans, they can recommend the best treatment.

The patches should fade over time once the cause is treated.

If you’re very overweight, a GP may recommend losing weight.

Depending on the cause, they may also recommend:

• medicine to balance your hormones
• medicine to balance your insulin levels
• changing your medicine to one that does not cause the patches

There’s no specific treatment for the patches themselves. A skin specialist (dermatologist) may be able to suggest treatments to improve their appearance, but finding and treating the cause is usually recommended first.

Page last reviewed: 20 June 2021
Next review due: 20 June 2024

Why Women of Color Get Dark Spots on Their Skin And What You Can Do About It: Skinworks Dermatology: Dermatology

Nothing is more beautiful than a smooth complexion, but if you’re a woman of color, you know that keeping your skin tone clear can be challenging. That’s because dark skin responds differently than lighter skin when it comes to healing from small scratches and blemishes. Men get dark spots and patches, too, but 90% of these blemishes happen to women specifically. 

If you’ve got uneven skin tone, otherwise known as hyperpigmentation, Dr. Javier Zelaya of Skinworks Dermatology can help you get your smooth, youthful skin back. Here in our Brooklyn and Maspeth, New York, offices, we offer the most advanced technology to help you reduce your patchy areas and tone down your spots, including laser treatments. 

What causes uneven skin tone in women of color?

All skin gets its color from melanin, a chemical produced by your skin cells, or melanocytes. Everyone is born with approximately the same amount of these melanocytes, but if you have darker skin, it means yours are larger and more plentiful. 

It also means that your skin is able to process UV rays from the sun more efficiently than lighter-toned people, and it’s better able to avoid skin cancers and sun damage. But when it comes to pigmentation problems, you may face a few more challenges. 

Little scratches, bug bites, and pimples can cause hyperpigmentation when they heal. This simply means that you produce more melanocytes during the healing process, and the result is patchy areas and dark spots.

What is melasma?

Melasma is a pigmentation disorder that generally shows up on your face, although it can appear on your shoulders, neck, and arms as well. While it’s most common in women of color, pregnant women of all skin tones are prone to these patches. In fact, it’s even earned the nickname “the mask of pregnancy.” 

You can blame your melasma on hormonal changes, overexposure to the sun, medications, or injuries, but you’re likely more interested in your treatment options than how you got your pigmentation problem.

What can I do about the hyperpigmentation on my dark skin?

Many options are available to treat hyperpigmentation, but as a woman of color, you need to be careful. Your skin is special and needs the touch of a qualified health professional experienced in treating dark skin tones.

Non-ablative treatments are best for your dark skin if administered by a trained professional. Ablative techniques that cut or scrape your skin cause your melanocytes to kick into high gear and give you hyperpigmentation, the very thing you’re trying to get rid of.

Laser treatments are also a good choice for dark skin, but again, you need to make sure you’ve chosen someone with experience and skill. Dr. Zelaya is the right doctor for the job. 

Intense pulsed light therapy, or IPL, may also give you great results in the right hands. By using higher wavelengths and various filters, Dr. Zelaya can safely administer IPL on your skin and reduce the look of your patches and spots.

If your dark skin is showing signs of blemishes, or even melasma, call us today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online to find out which treatment is right for you.

How to Get Rid of Dark Spots On Your Face: 7 Treatments That Work

After a summer out in the sun, you may be wondering how to get rid of dark spots on the skin due to sun damage. Despite anyone’s best efforts to mind their SPF, any time spent under the sun can take a toll on skin. After months of UV exposure, discolorations in the form of freckles, dark spots, or scars may suddenly be visible, leaving one to wonder how to get rid of dark spots. Once you notice them, New York City-based skin care expert Dangene says, the earlier you seek treatment, the better. In general, even tiny dark spots “will keep growing bigger,” she says—meaning the sooner you tackle the problem, the less intervention will be required.

Start by seeking a professional opinion. “Brown spots are complicated,” says Miami-based dermatologist Dr. Jill Waibel, M.D., who explains the key to successfully treating discoloration is to know what you’re dealing with. “You don’t want to use a laser on melanoma,” she warns—it’s important to get a potentially dangerous dark mark properly diagnosed before taking action.

Once you’ve established that an offending freckle doesn’t present a health risk, it’s time to form a plan of attack. Here, Dangene, Waibel, and more experts share their tried-and-true strategies for how to get rid of dark spots, from the best at-home topical treatments to the most effective in-office lasers.

1. Stock Up on Sunscreen

If you’re careful about limiting your sun exposure, “you will never have a brown spot [to begin with],” says Dangene. Regular sunscreen application and reasonable skin coverage in strong sunlight will help ward off future discoloration, too. Naana Boakye, MD—owner of Bergen Dermatology and co-owner of Karité Shea Butter—suggests a preventative daily routine that includes applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen in SPF 50 or higher in the morning. Boakye says it’s also important to look for sunscreens that are mineral-based (equipped with zinc and titanium). “The key to sunscreen is to apply 30 minutes prior to going outdoors, wearing an ample amount of sunscreen, and to reapply every two hours on sun exposed areas. Sun protective clothing such as wide brim hats, sunglasses and ultraviolet protective clothing are key to mitigate sun damage,” Boakye says. 

Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30

Supergoop! Zincscreen 100% Mineral Lotion SPF 40

CeraVe Sunscreen Lotion with Zinc Oxide

2. Plan Ahead with Retin A

Both Waibel and Dangene agree: The sooner you start using prescription-strength Retin A the better. In addition to exfoliating away minor discolorations, the derm-approved ingredient also helps to prevent future dark spots through a photoprotective antioxidant. Essentially, says Waibel, “the sooner you start using Retin-A, the better.” Apply it at night, since it may induce heightened sun sensitivity.

Osmosis Beauty Advanced Retinal Serum

3. Go for a Power Peel

For up to medium-depth spot removal, chemical peels including trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or glycolic acid superficially injure the skin to provoke a wound-healing response that expels dark pigment. For newish sun spots on very pale complexions, says Dangene, who offers the treatments at her Institute of Skinovation clinic in Manhattan, “we can eliminate the whole problem in a single TCA treatment.” Most clients, however, can expect to schedule an initial series of three to four appointments, and one to two follow-ups each year for maintenance, she says.

At home, milder daily peels can supplement doctor-administered treatments by way of glycolic acid pads such as Bluemercury’s M-61 Powerful Skincare Power Glow Peel. Each single-use pad contains 10% glycolic acid, as well as salicylic acid, vitamin K, bilberry and chamomile. If you go the at-home route, staying consistent in your regimen is key. “It’s like exercising at the gym. You can’t use them once a year and expect results,” says Waibel. To start, use glycolic acid pads three times a week and work up to daily application.

Renée Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel

Algenist Blue Algae Vitamin C Dark Spot Correcting Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

$88

DR. DENNIS GROSS SKINCARE

Peter Thomas Roth Firmx Exfoliating Peel Gel

Skin Inc Pure Revival Peel

4. Invest in a Laser Series

With “the right doctor and the right treatment,” Waibel says lasers can be extremely effective in treating even the most difficult of discolorations. With their far-reaching wave-lengths, they penetrate the skin, heat up targeted brown spots and destroy them by causing the darkened skin to flake and fall off following the treatment.

90,000 How to remove age spots? – clinic “Cosmetomed”

from 9 February 2020

Pigmented spots, or hyperpigmentation, or dyschromia is an uneven excess accumulation of pigment (melanin) in the skin, which causes fragmentary darkening of the skin.

Melanin and its properties

The more melanin there is in the skin, the darker it is. The natural color of the skin depends on the combination of different types of melanin:

• Zumelanin – gives the skin a black tint
• pheomelanin – gives the skin a tint from yellowish to reddish brown.

A disease in which there is no melanin synthesis, which is responsible for the presence of pigment in the hair, skin and iris of the eyes, is called albinism.

Other pigments also play an important role in the “coloring” of the skin: reduced hemoglobin , which gives the skin a bluish-bluish tint, oxygenated hemoglobin – a reddish tint and carotene – gives the skin a yellowish tint.

Melanin plays a major role in regulating the penetration of UV radiation into the skin. Melanin is a natural filter that protects the skin from the damaging effects of UV radiation.

With pigment dysfunctions, there is an increase or, on the contrary, a decrease in the normal skin color.

Types of hyperpigmentation

Pigmentation is of two types: constitutional and optional . Constitutional type pigmentation is hereditary and does not depend on external factors. This type of pigmentation can be called irreversible.

The optional type of pigmentation depends on external factors such as ultraviolet radiation, hormonal dysfunctions, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and endocrine system, nervous disorders, lack of vitamin C, trauma and burns.In addition, hyperigmentation is observed in tuberculosis, worms, and malaria. Often, hyperpigmentation appears when working with chemicals. The optional type of pigmentation is reversible and can disappear after the causes of its appearance are eliminated.

The following types of age spots are distinguished:

Freckles , or ephelids. Most often they annoy redheads and blondes, and appear in the spring, along with the first rays of the sun. The reason for their occurrence is the presence of a specific gene in melanocytes.When meeting with the sun’s rays, melanocytes begin to produce melanin more intensively. The brightest freckles appear at the age of 20-25. Up to 35 years of age, their number can increase, but with age they turn pale. Freckles are usually found on exposed areas of the face and body.

Senile (“coffee”) spots appear after 40 years, due to an increase in the number of melanocytes in the skin. Most often, they are localized in open areas of the body that were maximally exposed to solar radiation: on the chest, shoulders and hands.

Lentigo appears as small oval, flat or convex spots in large numbers and look like moles. Their color varies from light beige to dark brown. They appear at any age, including in children (juvenile lentigo) and represent a benign neoplasm. (Treatment – see section on removal of skin neoplasms)

Sunshine pigment spots are formed as a result of intense solar irradiation.Most often, such spots are localized on the face, décolleté, shoulders and back.

Pigmented spots of pregnancy (chloasma or “pregnancy mask”) appear in the first months of pregnancy and usually disappear with the first postpartum menstruation (within 3-4 months after childbirth). Sometimes age spots remain longer and have to be dealt with.

Spots of photosensitization (local pigmentation) – the reaction of the skin to the interaction of sunlight and substances that increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight.Such substances include: alcohol-containing products (perfume, eau de toilette, deodorant, etc.), some essential oils (the entire citrus group), hormonal contraceptives, etc. These substances act as small magnifiers through which sunlight is focused on the skin.

Modern cosmetology is rich in ways and methods to eliminate age spots.

Our clinic is equipped with modern professional equipment, trendy, effective drugs that allow to radically treat various manifestations of hyperpigmentation.As a rule, our doctors develop individual complex programs of exposure. Their advantages are moderate treatment times, noticeable results after the first procedures, a short recovery period, and the absence of post-traumatic complications.

Among the methods of treatment, the following can be distinguished

• Removal of age spots with laser – today it is the most effective and radical way in the fight against hyperpigmentation of any etiology.Among the devices that we use for dyschromia correction, it is worth highlighting the high-intensity light IPL lasers – Quantum SR and Palomar MaxG . The presence of these two professional lasers and their combined use makes it possible to almost completely correct the manifestations of even the most common forms of hyperpigmentation.
• Chemical peeling – carrying out chemical peeling procedures is very often included in the complex treatment of age spots on the face, neck, décolleté.As a result of the action of the active ingredients of acids, exfoliation and lightening of the skin is observed. Particularly effective in this regard should be canceled when using retinoic peels.
• Bioreparation and Mesotherapy – injection methods used in the complex correction of various manifestations of hyperpigmentation. The procedures consist in the introduction of subcutaneous injections with a pronounced whitening effect. It is a fairly effective technique in the fight for an even skin tone.

In our clinic, we solve the problem of age spots as quickly as possible and guarantee the safety of the procedures.

Federal State Budgetary Institution National Medical
Research Center for Endocrinology
of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation

Did not find an answer to your question?
Call and ask the specialists by phone +7 (495) 500 00 97 or write +7 (910) 455 34 97

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90,000 Skin pigmentation – causes, diseases, diagnosis, prevention and treatment – Likar24

Skin pigmentation occurs under the influence of melanocytes – pigment cells that color.With pigment dysfunctions, an increase or decrease in the normal skin color occurs.

Pigmentation is not harmful and usually does not indicate a serious illness. In some cases, darkened areas of the skin disappear on their own. In others, the dark spots disappear with treatment. It is not always possible to prevent hyperpigmentation. However, using an SPF 30 sunscreen can help, as well as wearing hats or clothing that blocks sunlight from reaching your skin.

Pigmented disorders:

Pigmentation disorders can be widespread and affect many areas of the skin, or they can be localized and affect only certain areas of the skin.

• Depigmentation: complete loss of pigment. The skin is white. Depigmentation in vitiligo is widespread.
• Hypopigmentation: Abnormally low amount of melanin. The skin is lighter than normal. Hypopigmentation of the skin with albinism is common.
• Hyperpigmentation: Caused by an abnormally high amount of melanin, but sometimes it is caused by the deposition of other pigment substances that are not normally present in the skin. The skin is darker in color than normal skin.

Types of hyperpigmentation:

• Melasma: Caused by hormonal changes and develops during pregnancy. Areas of hyperpigmentation may appear anywhere on the body. They most often appear on the abdomen and face.
• Sunspots, also called liver spots or solar lentigines.They are associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the result of skin damage.

Darkened areas of the skin are the only symptoms of hyperpigmentation. Spots can vary in size and can develop anywhere on the body.

Overproduction of melanin is a common cause of hyperpigmentation. Melanin is the pigment that gives the skin its color. And it is produced by skin cells called melanocytes.

Several different conditions or factors can alter the production of melanin in the body.

• Certain drugs can cause hyperpigmentation. In addition, some drugs can cause hyperpigmentation as a side effect.
• Pregnancy changes hormone levels and may affect melanin production in some women.
• Endocrine diseases such as Addison’s disease that disrupt hormone levels can increase melanin production.
• Excessive sun exposure can also cause an increase in melanin.

The following methods are also used for diagnostics:

• general blood test;
• biochemical blood test;
• biopsy.

Acanthosis

It is a skin condition characterized by areas of dark, velvety color in the folds and folds of the body. The affected skin may thicken. Most often, acanthosis nigricaniv affects the armpits, groin and neck.

Acanthosis skin changes usually occur in obese or diabetic people. Children who develop this condition have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Rarely, this disease can be a warning sign of a cancerous tumor in an internal organ, such as the stomach or liver.

Aging

When the aging process occurs, unsightly spots – commonly called age spots – can appear on the face and back of the hands.Sharply defined, rounded, brown or black, flat patches of skin.

Albinism

Albinism generally refers to an oculocutaneous group of hereditary diseases characterized by little or no production of the pigment melanin. Melanin also plays an important role in the development of the optic nerves, which is why people with albinism have vision problems.

Signs of albinism usually appear in a person’s skin, hair, and eye color, but sometimes the differences are subtle.People with albinism are also sensitive to sun exposure, so they have an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common, often harmless condition in which patches of skin appear darker than normal skin. This darkening occurs when excess melanin, a brown pigment that produces normal skin color, forms deposits in the skin. Hyperpigmentation can affect skin color in people of any race.

Hippopigmentation

This disorder is an inherited skin pigmentation disorder, also associated with disorders of the teeth, muscular system, eyes and central nervous system. It is one of a group of genetically related diseases known as neuromuscular disorders. In most cases, it is caused by mutations in a gene called NEMO (NF-kappaB – modulator). Men are more likely to fail than women. Discolored skin is caused by excessive deposits of melanin (normal skin pigment).

Freckles

Lentigines, or liver spots, are benign lesions that occur on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun for a long time. This is usually the skin of the back, arms and face. The lesion tends to increase with age. They range in size from 0.2 to 2 cm. These flat lesions are usually discrete, dark in color, and irregular in shape.

Melasma

Melasma is a common skin problem that causes brown spots, usually on the face.In most people, they appear on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, chin, and above the upper lip. Melasma can also appear on other parts of the body that are affected by sunlight, such as the forearms and neck.

Progressive pigment purpura

Progressive pigmentary purpura is a group of similar diseases (Schemberg’s disease, Gurzherot-Blum lichenoid dermatitis, purpura ring-shaped telangiotekdoses of T-shirts and lichen). The Shamberg type is the most common.This condition leads to discoloration of brown skin. Brown spots are scattered unevenly on both sides and may be few in number. There are tiny red dots in the patches. The area is flat, smooth and not scaly. There are no internal symptoms or effects.

Oral melanose waste

Oral melanosis waste is a noncancerous (benign), dark spot that appears on the lips or inside the mouth. Orally melanotic macula is sometimes referred to as labial melanotic macula.

Chloasma

These are brown, uneven pigmentation spots, most often formed in people with a dark complexion on the face and other open areas of the body during increased pigmentation. Its appearance can provoke the use of certain medications, for example, contraceptives, pregnancy, and prolonged exposure to the sun. Chloasma passes after childbirth or drug withdrawal.

Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition in which white patches develop on the skin.Any place on the body can be aroused, and most people with vitiligo have white patches in many areas of the body. Vitiligo is caused by the loss of pigment in the skin due to the destruction of pigment-forming cells known as melanocytes. Although vitiligo affects all races in the same way, it is more noticeable in dark-skinned people. Vitiligo can cause cosmetic problems.

Only a dermatologist can diagnose hyperpigmentation. In some cases, a skin biopsy will be needed, which can rule out possible skin cancer.

Although hyperpigmentation is harmless, some people want to get rid of it. There are a number of possible treatments and home remedies that people can try.

To prevent or stop hyperpigmentation:

• Avoid sun exposure. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin and stop the darkening of hyperpigmentation.
• Avoid collecting skin. To prevent post-injury hyperpigmentation, avoid bumping blemishes, scabs and acne.

You can try these treatments to try to eliminate pigmentation:

Creams

Many people use topical treatments to treat pigmentation. Topical treatments contain ingredients that lighten the skin, such as:

• azelaic acid
• Kojic acid
• corticosteroids;
• hydroquinone;
• retinoids;
• vitamin C;
• cosmetic procedures

Certain cosmetic procedures can also lighten skin areas to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation:

• laser therapy;
• chemical peeling;
• microdermabrasion;

People who wish to have one of these procedures should discuss the process and possible side effects with a skin care professional or dermatologist.

Other home treatments such as jojoba oil, lemon juice, or a sugar-free diet are believed to be effective in treating hyperpigmentation as well. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these facts.

90,000 What is the difference between pigmentation and hyperpigmentation?

Is there a fundamental difference between pigmentation and hyperpigmentation and what to do if you notice age spots on your face and body?

Evolution over hundreds of thousands of years is responsible for the diverse palette of human skin tones that we see around the world today.It is believed that our ancestors developed a dark, persistent pigment called melanin in their skin as a form of natural sun protection. Melanin is produced in cells called melanocytes that live in our epidermis (the outer layer of our skin).

Melanin is magic because it is our kind of protection against ultraviolet radiation from Mother Nature. The amount of melanin in our skin determines the color of our skin, and there are two different types in the human body: eumelanin and pheomelanin.Eumelanin is the melanin behind blemishes and therefore more pigmented skin is less likely to sunburn and age earlier, as is lighter skin. Phaeomelanin is a yellowish-red pigment that is present in all skin types, but it is especially abundant in people with fair skin. It lacks sun protection and can actually increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, resulting in lighter skin tones fading quickly and accumulating more sun damage over time.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is when your melanocytes, your little pigment factories, decide it’s time to work overtime. And they produce more melanin. They do this when they feel threatened or when prompted to do so. Therefore, it is important to protect your skin every day so that your melanocytes are not overloaded.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
There are several things that can make melanocytes feel like they need to work really, really hard.
The biggest cause of hyperpigmentation is the sun. When our skin is exposed to sunlight, melanocytes are naturally stimulated to produce more melanin to protect the skin from burns. This sun-induced overproduction of melanin causes dark spots on our body that we recognize as sunspots. Freckles, which are usually genetic and develop during childhood, are just childhood sunspots. They are dark in summer and dull in winter (as opposed to sunspots) and are generally quite small.Surprisingly, age spots – which people often think are caused solely by aging – are the same as sun spots. They just accumulated all my life. If you were 100 years old and never went out in the sun, you would not have any of these spots.

Artificial light

Similar to ultraviolet light from the sun, visible light (yes, from bulbs) can also cause an overproduction of pigment, especially on darker skin types. Blue light from smartphones and computers can also cause hyperpigmentation in some people.
High temperature
One of the most unknown causes of hyperpigmentation is fever. Heat – whether it’s hot yoga, working as a cook in a hot workshop, or sitting by the fireplace – can be another trigger for melanocytes. These pigment factories respond to trauma, and heat is a form of trauma.
Hormones
Increased estrogen levels – often due to pregnancy or birth control pills – can also cause cloudy spots on the forehead, cheeks, or chin.This spotting known as melasma differs from normal hyperpigmentation as it is primarily caused by hormonal influences. This condition is often referred to as the “pregnancy mask” because it often occurs in pregnant women who are experiencing drastic hormonal changes. Melasma may appear on its own, but exposure to the sun can make it worse.
Acne
Finally, another cause of dark spots is acne. When you think you’ve officially won the battle with a particularly tough pimple, a brown spot may appear in its place.This type of hyperpigmentation, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, occurs due to skin trauma caused by acne, especially if you like to squeeze pimples. This injury from a squeezed pimple can lead to localized production of melanin, which can take much longer than a pimple.
How to prevent hyperpigmentation?
Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide Mineral Sunscreens are the best protection against full spectrum light including blue light, which we now know can cause pigmentation.Avoid mechanical exfoliators (such as granular scrubs), irritating skin care ingredients (such as alcohol, propylene glycol, and lanolin), intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, and ablative lasers, all of which can cause hyperpigmentation.

Brown spots on the legs causes and treatment in St. Petersburg

Dark spots on the skin of the legs can be signs of various diseases.If brown spots appear on your feet, it’s time to see a doctor right away. Consult a phlebologist at the First Family Clinic in St. Petersburg.

Brown spots on the skin of the legs: causes and treatment

One of the reasons that brown spots appear on the skin of the legs is varicose veins. Initially, light brown, subtle pigment spots may appear, and in most cases, brown spots are localized on the ankles and legs. Subsequently, they acquire a pronounced dark brown color and become dense to the touch.You can quickly and effectively remove brown spots on your legs at the First Family Clinic in St. Petersburg.

Indications for treatment

Darkening of the skin on the legs is rarely the only symptom of varicose veins. This is usually accompanied by the appearance of other signs of the disease, in particular:

• pain and swelling of the lower extremities;
• discomfort when walking;
• itching and burning;
• the formation of nodes and vascular network;
• The appearance of dark areas on the nails.

In such situations, it is imperative to make an appointment with a phlebologist in order to thoroughly understand the reasons why spots appeared on the ankles, itch and cause discomfort, as well as to receive recommendations for the treatment of the detected pathologies. Otherwise, varicose veins will progress and will be able to provoke the development of complications, including the formation of non-healing trophic ulcers, thrombosis, etc.

Make an appointment with a highly qualified phlebologist at the First Family Clinic of St. Petersburg in the Primorsky District to remove a stain on the skin of the ankle.We are waiting for you at Kolomyazhsky prospect, 36/2 (metro Udelnaya and Pionerskaya).

Hyperpigmentation | Thermal water Aven

The amount and distribution of melanin in the uppermost layers of the skin affects how light or dark it is. There is a “natural” degree of pigmentation determined by genetics, and additional factors are sunburn (hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure) and pigmentation disorders (excess – hyperpigmentation; deficiency – hypopigmentation).According to this distribution, pigmentation disorders are usually divided into diffuse or localized.

EXTRA PIGMENT?

The term “hyperpigmentation” is used to define various pigmentation problems. Hyperpigmentation of the skin can be caused by excess melanin in the upper layers of the skin. But it can also be an abnormal melanin distribution that causes what is commonly referred to as “age spots”.

Hyperpigmentation is often the reason for consulting a dermatologist, especially when it comes to prominent parts of the body (eg the face).But before starting treatment, it is very important to determine the exact cause of the appearance of the age spot.

Melasma and lentigo are the two most common forms of hyperpigmentation.

MELASMA, GREATLY NOTICEABLE PIGMENTATION DISTURBANCE

Melasma, also called “maternity mask”, is a form of hypermelanosis that usually appears symmetrically along sun-exposed areas (in particular on the face, but also on the arms and neck). What’s more, sun exposure is a major deterioration factor.

The onset of melasma is directly related to hormonal changes that occur when taking birth control pills or during pregnancy, but can also be the result of a certain genetic predisposition. Thus, certain nations and people with dark skin (phototype IV or more) suffer from melasma more often than people with clear phototypes.

LENTIGINOSIS: A SIGN OF AGING SKIN, BUT MOSTLY A SIGN OF SUN EXPOSURE

We’ve all seen those little black dots that appear on the face, neck and arms of older people.These “aging spots”, also called lentiginosis or solar lentigines, are a direct result of sun exposure and are one of the first signs of skin aging. The first lentiginosis usually appears when a person crosses the 40-year-old threshold, and it is especially common in people with fair skin. It does not pose a health hazard, but lentiginosis must be monitored and protected from sun exposure so that it does not develop into a malignant focus.
These hyperpigmentation was once thought to be an inherent consequence of aging, but it can now be alleviated with a variety of dermatological techniques.Therapeutic demand is high because these blemishes are contrary to common beauty ideals that emphasize an even skin tone.

Treatment of age spots in Kiev

Hyperpigmentation appears on the face as brown areas of various sizes and shapes. If neat freckles can be turned into your zest, then solid, spreading dark spots over time do not add beauty at all. The most effective treatment for age spots today is carried out using high-intensity pulsed light.IPL technology is non-invasive, does not disturb the skin surface, at the same time, the device very gently and precisely destroys excess epidermal melanin, evening out the patient’s complexion.

Indications for the treatment of age spots

A patient who needs treatment for facial pigmentation is immediately visible. On his face, in the decollete area, on his hands, large or small spots with clear edges, light or dark brown, are clearly visible. They do not bring any harm, but the skin looks unaesthetic – as if stained and dirty.

Indications for phototherapy of age spots:

• Small flat yellowish-brown spots on the face (ephelids or freckles)
• Brown or grayish dyschromias (melasma)
• Face mask of greenish-yellow or brown spots on the forehead, temples, bridge of the nose, upper lip (chloasma)
• Solar or age-related lentiginosis (so-called liver spots)
• Hyperpigmentation
• Dark spots protruding above the rest of the surface

Advantages of the hardware treatment of age spots

No other method in cosmetology can brighten the skin on the face as quickly, efficiently and safely as hardware removal of pigmentation.For a light beam, it does not matter how excess melanin has accumulated in the skin, whether as a result of sunburn, or because of hormonal changes, it eliminates any darkening. Benefits of the procedure:

1. No skin trauma
2. 100% effective
3. Safe for the body
4. Doesn’t hurt
5. Suitable for all phototypes
6. Conducted year-round
7. No rehabilitation needed
8. Does not cause allergies or side effects

* Discount -10% on all services at the first visit to the SandyTime Clinic in Pechersk (Kiev) ** Promotions and discounts are not cumulative

How is the procedure for the treatment of skin pigmentation, the basic principles of the method

Principle of treatment of age spots on the IPL machine:

1. Wavelength flashes are absorbed exclusively by target cells – melanocytes.Light is converted into heat energy. Melanin breaks down into small particles, then rises to the surface of the epidermis, and exfoliates. The patient observes peeling in the treated area, leaving clean and smooth, new skin.
2. Thanks to the ability to adjust the wavelength, the action of the light beam is strictly selective and does not affect adjacent tissues. The process is safe for the patient and does not cause discomfort.
3. Simultaneously with the removal of age spots, a decrease in inflammation is observed, the formation of collagen is stimulated, the texture and tone of the skin is improved.

Restrictions after the procedure, treatment of age spots

During the session, impulses can be felt as light clicks. The cosmetologist completely regulates the process so as not to cause discomfort to the client. After the procedure, the skin turns slightly red and swollen, but the symptoms disappear in a couple of hours, and the patient can go about his usual activities. Thus, as such, no rehabilitation is required. To maintain the effect for 1-4 weeks, it is important to follow these recommendations:

• Do not go to the sauna, steam bath, swimming pool
• Do not sunbathe – in the solarium or on the beach
• Use sunscreen Do not injure the skin again: exclude massages, peels, rubbing
• Avoid heavy physical exercise
• Do not injure the skin again: exclude massages, peels, rubbing
• Suffer with alcohol and follow a healthy diet
• Avoid any factors causing excessive pigmentation

What apparatus for treating age spots does SandyTime use

We guarantee the safety and effectiveness of all our dermatological treatments.Equipment for the treatment of hyperpigmentation – certified Israeli device Viora 20 – IPL technology (phototherapy). For decades, with its help, many patients around the world get rid of skin dyschromia, now the procedure is available in Kiev. Our clinic has a conclusion of the Ministry of Health on all types of cosmetic services. The session is carried out not just by cosmetologists, but by certified doctors with a license.

Result of hardware pigmentation treatment

The first effect of fractional photopulse resurfacing is an even greater darkening of age spots.You should not be afraid of this, on the contrary, it indicates the success of the procedure. After a few days, the skin will begin to peel off, and when the stratum corneum completely exfoliates, renewed skin appears under it – light, uniform, radiant. Throughout the course, which is up to 4-6 procedures with a break of 1-2 weeks, the effect grows, delighting the patient.

Results of the course of procedures:

• Smooth, healthy complexion
• Skin is uniform, smooth
• There are no age spots from acne, inflammation, redness
• Skin is tightened and more elastic
• Wrinkles are less pronounced
• The texture of the dermis has improved

Duration of the effect of the treatment of age spots

According to patients, the most effective removal of age spots is with IPL.High-intensity pulsed light spots no longer appear. The only point is that no one guarantees that hyperpigmentation will not reappear on the face or body. To prevent this from happening, experts recommend avoiding provoking factors as much as possible, not staying in the sun for a long time, and forgetting about the solarium. If, nevertheless, the problem returned, no one bothers to undergo IPL again – it is safe and does not leave any traces for the body.

Cost of procedures Treatment of age spots in Kiev

You can see the cost in the price list or immediately make an appointment.

• Treatment of age spots

  from 1 200

  • Treatment of age spots Technolonia IPL

    forehead / cheeks / nose

    1 200

  • Phototherapy

    900 hands

    1 5005 9000 spots

    to / above the elbow

    1 700

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Contraindications to the procedure

Doctors do not recommend phototherapy, that is, to remove age spots on the skin, with especially complex pathologies of the body, as well as in some special conditions.Contraindications can be either temporary or permanent. These include:

• Period of childbearing and breastfeeding
• Atrophic age spots in diabetes
• Malignant oncology
• Blood clotting
• Tuberculosis
• Tendency to keloid scars
• Skin trauma, exacerbation of herpes on the face

HIV

• ARI
• Certain serious diseases of the skin or eyes

Areas of cosmetology that can also achieve the effect

For patients who have accumulated a whole bunch of problems, along with IPL-therapy, other cosmetological hardware or injection techniques can be offered.Lifting, photorejuvenation, facial and men’s hair removal, as well, are very popular. We suggest looking at the following areas if you are concerned about one or more of these symptoms:

90,000 “Strawberry” skin: why red spots appear after shaving, and how to get rid of them at home?

Have you ever noticed small dark spots on your skin after shaving? In fact, they have nothing to do with black dots, although the mechanism of their formation is very similar.The scattering of these points is very similar to the seeds on the peel of a strawberry, hence the unofficial term “strawberry skin” originated. Let’s see what it really is, why it occurs and what type of skin is most prone to them.

Contents:

What is Strawberry Skin?

According to dermatologist and MD Blair Murphy-Rose, “strawberry” skin is the appearance of dark spots in a pattern that corresponds to hair follicles or pores.The most common reason is the situation when the hair itself is darker than the skin color and simply shines through the epidermis. But it’s not all that simple, which is why this list also includes enlarged hair follicles, clogged pores, and hair keratosis.

Why does keratosis appear?

According to dermatologists, keratosis pilaris is a safe condition due to the accumulation of keratin around the hair follicles. But why does keratin accumulate?

1.Genetic factor;
2. Excess vitamin A;
3. Violation of the exfoliation process;
4. Atopic dermatitis;
5. Tendency to acne;
6. Propensity to allergic reactions.

It should be noted that adolescents have such skin much more often than adults. The period of hormonal changes provokes unstable sebum secretion, and this directly affects the behavior of the skin and its function.

How to get rid of strawberry skin?

There is a myth that leads people to use abrasive scrubs and sunbathe uncontrollably in the sun.These manipulations “promise” to get rid of “keratin plugs” and hide their presence due to intense tanning. You shouldn’t do this! Skin with imperfections is much more susceptible to the action of AHA and BHA acids, and the intense exposure to ultraviolet radiation without the use of SPF causes exceptional harm, no matter who says what.

How to care for strawberry skin?

1. Use only sharp quality razors;
2. Prepare the skin for shaving 1-2 days before the procedure: use a dry brush massage and apply acids according to skin type;
3.Cleanse the skin with products with mild surfactants so as not to weaken the hydrolipid barrier;
4. Regularly moisturize the skin and do not neglect the use of UV protection;
5. Lactic and glycolic acids are now your best friends;
6. It is advisable to avoid dry cold air and more often to place yourself in conditions of high humidity with moderate heat.

Top 5 Regular Preventive Care Products

1. Dermalogica Thermafoliant Body Scrub. Scrub with lactic acid and sea salt, brightens, exfoliates and stimulates the regeneration process.