PIGMENT SPOTS

Pigment spots are small patches of skin that darken and can generally appear anywhere on the body. They very often appear on the hands and forearms, as well as on the face, because these areas are most often exposed to the sun. Pigment spots are of different intensity and appear not only in older people, but also in young people. Sun protection is the best way to prevent the appearance of pigment spots.

What are pigment spots?

In practical terms, age spots are not an age-related phenomenon, but rather the result of uncontrolled sun exposure. The sun's rays can increase the concentration of melanin - the dark pigment in spots. Other factors that determine the appearance of pigment spots are a person's genetic predisposition and sensitivity to sunlight. Pigment spots can appear on any skin type - from fair to dark skin.

Symptoms

Color changes

Pigment spots can be of various shades - from brown to black, yellow or even red. They can be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

Form

Pigment spots are usually uneven in shape, they can be round or even vague in shape.

Size

The size of pigment spots can vary from small dots to large spots.

Body parts

Pigment spots usually appear on the face, arms, shoulders and chest, but can also appear on other parts of the body.

Pain or itching

Most pigment spots do not cause any discomfort, but sometimes they can be sensitive or itchy.

What helps to eliminate / prevent the appearance of pigment spots?

Removal of pigment spots may depend on the cause, type and individual characteristics of their appearance. A few possible methods that can increase the reduction of pigment spots or eliminate them altogether:

1. Sun protection. Use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, as sun exposure can increase pigmentation.
2. Means. Use skin care products that contain ingredients designed to reduce pigmentation.
3. Laser therapy .
4. Microdermabrasion. This method can help reduce the appearance of pigment spots by removing the top layers of the skin.

Prevention. What really works?

To reduce the risk of pigmentation spots, you can apply the following preventive measures:

1. Sun protection. Use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV rays that promote pigmentation.
2. Avoid excessive sun exposure. Try to avoid excessive sun exposure, especially when the sun is at its strongest (usually between 10am and 4pm). Seek shade or use a parasol.
3. Protect vulnerable areas of the body. Protect skin areas that are more prone to pigmentation, such as the face, neck, hands and décolletage.
4. Proper skin care. Cleanse, moisturize and use skin protectants regularly to help maintain a healthy skin barrier and reduce irritation.
5. Choose gentle skin care products. Avoid aggressive active ingredients that can irritate the skin and increase pigmentation. Instead, choose gentle, natural ingredients.
6. Hormone balancing. Talk to your doctor if you think hormonal changes may be involved in your pigmentation. Sometimes hormone therapy or changing contraceptives can help.
7. Healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet, adequate hydration levels, adequate sleep, and stress reduction techniques can contribute to overall skin health and reduce the risk of age spots.

Remember that prevention is an important step in avoiding pigment spots.

Are pigment spots dangerous?

Most pigment spots are harmless to health. This is only a cosmetic issue that usually does not have any negative consequences. However, there are some situations where pigment spots may be associated with a higher risk:

Melanoma

Although most pigment spots are non-cancerous, some changes can indicate the development of skin cancer - melanoma. It is important to monitor the pigmentation and consult a dermatologist if you notice any changes such as color, shape, size or symmetry.

Atypical pigment spots

Some pigmented spots may have a strange appearance, which may make a dermatologist want to observe them and take a sample (biopsy) to make sure they are not melanoma.

Infection

Sometimes pigmented spots can be irritated or damaged by trauma to the skin, which can lead to inflammation or infection. In such cases, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Psychological impact

Pigment spots can cause dissatisfaction with oneself or tension in personal relationships. In these cases, consult a psychologist or psychotherapist to help you manage your emotions and help you accept yourself.

Although most pigmentation marks are harmless, it is important to regularly monitor skin changes and consult a dermatologist or other healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your skin condition.

Prepared from online sources.