Sun spots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation are terms that describe different forms of skin discoloration, each with its own causes and characteristics.
Sun spots
Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines or liver spots, are flat, brown, gray, or black spots that appear on the skin due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. They are most commonly found on areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, chest, hands, shoulders, and arms. The primary cause is overexposure to UV light, which accelerates the production of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin color, and excessive production leads to the formation of these dark spots. They are more common in older adults, hence the alternative name “age spots.”
Lentigines
Lentigines are similar to solar lentigines but can appear on non-sun-exposed areas of the skin. They are usually larger and darker than freckles and do not fade with reduced sun exposure. They are due to genetics and aging.
Freckles
Freckles are small, flat, tan or light brown spots that appear on the sun-exposed areas the skin especially the face and arms. They are more common in people with lighter skin tones and red or blond hair. A strong genetic component determines susceptibility to freckles. UV radiation triggers melanin production, leading to freckles.
Age spots
Age spots are similar to sun spots and are often used interchangeably. These are pigmented areas that appear on the skin as one ages, typically starting from middle age onwards. They are usually found on sun-exposed areas of the body. Age spots are caused by cumulative sun exposure over the years. The UV radiation stimulates melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) to produce more pigment. Over time, this results in the development of age spots. While they are benign and pose no health risks, their appearance can be cosmetically concerning for some people
Hyperpigmentation is a broad term that refers to any condition where areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This can result from various causes and appears in different forms.
- Sun Exposure: As with sun spots, UV radiation can lead to increased melanin production, causing hyperpigmentation.
- Inflammation: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs when a skin injury or inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis, triggers an increase in melanin production as the skin heals. PIH is the discoloration left after acne or other inflammation heals. PIH can be pink, red, purple, brown or black flat discolored areas.
Acne breakouts often result in PIH. Acne scars may also be discolored. Over exposure to the sun, and drugs that cause hypersensitivity to the sun, such as some antibiotics, can cause PIH. PIH discolorations take a long time to fade with some studies reporting that it can take 24 months or longer to fade superficial spots, and longer to treat deeper discolorations that may not fade on their own. People with medium to dark complexions are more prone to PIH.
- Allergic reactions: Hyperpigmentation can occur as a result of allergic reactions, adding another dimension to the various types of skin discoloration. An allergic reactions can manifest as inflammation that stimulates melanin production leavings behind dark patches of skin. Contact dermatitis caused by an allergen like chemicals, plants like poison ivy or metals like nickel can cause redness, itching and blistering followed by dark patches. Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can be triggered by allergens including pet dander and certain foods, can cause inflamed skin and leave behind hyperpigmented areas as the skin heals.
- Skin trauma: Cuts, burns and other skin injuries such as bug bites that cause inflammation can leave behind skin discolorations.
- Hormone Changes: Conditions like melasma (often referred to as “the mask of pregnancy”) are caused by hormonal fluctuations, commonly during pregnancy or due to the use of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy.
- Medications: Drug-induced hyperpigmentation is a side effect of certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, some antibiotics, and antipsychotics.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Disorders like Addison’s disease and hemochromatosis can lead to hyperpigmentation as part of their symptomatology.
When you have a skin discoloration or a trigger that irritates the skin and creates hyperpigmentation or when you don’t know what is causing your problem, contact Ironwood Dermatology in Oro Valley and Tucson, Arizona to schedule a consultation.
Your Ironwood dermatologist will listen to your concerns and symptoms, and carefully examine your skin to determine the nature of your skin condition which will determine your treatment plan. A personalized skin care regime may also be prescribed. The goal is to identify and treat the cause of the hyperpigmentation and improve the appearance of your skin.
Our office offers many great options to eliminate dark spots. Sometimes a combination of options will be most beneficial for many patients. Most importantly, the consistent use of sun protection to the treated areas remains a staple to ensure lasting results. We look forward to seeing you!
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