The areas of the skin that are uneven in color, typically darker than the surrounding skin are called dark spots. It is most commonly found in the middle of the forehead, chin, or cheeks. These dark spots can be inherited, but they can also be caused by excessive sun exposure. Before attempting to treat the skin discoloration, it is critical to first identify the type of dark spot you have.
What are dark spots?
Dark spots are a form of hyperpigmentation, which is usually caused by an excess of melanin. They can appear on the skin in many different ways and sometimes look like freckles. Dark spots are also called hyperpigmentation, melasma, or lentigo senilis. These dark patches occur when there's too much melanin in the top layer of your skin (the epidermis). This makes the area darker than it should be.
What causes dark spots?
Dark spots can be caused by a number of factors, and depending on what the cause is, you might need to get medical treatment. Some common causes are:
- UV damage: This is one of the most common causes of dark spots. UV rays from the sun and tanning beds can damage your skin’s pigment-producing cells, causing discolored patches that may not go away without medical intervention.
- Genetics: If someone in your family has dark spots on their face or body, then you may be more prone to getting them as well.
- Hormonal changes: Certain hormonal changes can lead to increased oil production in your skin, which leads to clogged pores that form blackheads, whiteheads, and acne that leave behind a mark when they heal.
- Sunburns: A burn from overexposure to sunlight can leave behind brown or red marks that fade with time but don’t disappear entirely unless treated by a dermatologist or other specialist.
To conclude, dark spots are a common condition that many people suffer from. A variety of factors can contribute to them. While there are no quick fixes, there are some ways to prevent dark spots from developing or worsening, which is why it is critical to understand the root cause of this condition.
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Source: Dr Usama Syed | What causes dark spots on skin?