When you look in the mirror, have you noticed that you have brown or black spots on your face, hands, or other parts of your body? Sometimes these spots seem to be increasing little by little, which can be a bit disturbing. But don't worry, this is a very common condition. In medicine, we call this Hyperpigmentation. So today, let's talk about everything in simple terms.
Simply put, what is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a very simple thing. It means that some areas of your skin become darker than the surrounding skin. As the name suggests, “Hyper” means “more” and “Pigment” means “pigment.” It means an increase in color .
These spots can be brown, black, gray, red, or pink. Some people also call them "age spots" or "sun spots." These spots can appear in just one area of the body, or they can spread all over the body. Anyone can get this condition, at any age.
Why do spots like this appear on our skin? What are the causes?
Our skin gets its color from cells that produce a pigment called melanin . Think of these cells as little factories that make our skin color. If for some reason these cells are damaged or their function is disrupted, they start producing more melanin than necessary. This excess melanin accumulates in one place, which is what we see as a dark spot.
There are several main causes of hyperpigmentation. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Cause | A Simple Explanation |
|---|---|
| Sun Exposure (Sun Damage) | This is the main and most common cause. When exposed to the sun, the skin produces more melanin to protect itself. We call the spots that occur as a result (solar lentigines) . |
| Hormonal Changes | Melasma can occur due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, or when taking birth control pills. We call this condition (Melasma) . |
| Skin Injury | Acne, scrapes, cuts, and burns can leave dark spots after they heal. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation . |
| Some medical conditions | Skin spots can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and Addison's disease . |
| Some medications | These spots can also occur as a side effect of certain medications (especially those that make the skin sensitive to sunlight). |
| Vitamin deficiencies | This condition can also occur if certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12 and folic acid, are lacking in the body. |
How exactly does a doctor diagnose this condition?
When you go to see a doctor to talk about these spots, he will follow several steps to find out exactly what the condition is.
- You will be asked for details: First, you will be asked how long these spots have been present, what medications you are taking, and whether anyone in your family has this condition.
- Skin examination: Next, your skin will be carefully examined.
- Viewed with a special light: Sometimes a special ultraviolet (UV) light called a Wood lamp is used to see how deep the spots are in the skin.
- Blood tests: You may also have blood tests to check things like your hormone levels, vitamin levels, and thyroid function.
- A small piece of skin is tested: Very rarely, and only if there is any doubt about the mole, a very small piece of skin is taken from the area and sent to a laboratory for testing. We call this a biopsy .
What are the treatments for hyperpigmentation?
The best thing is that there are many treatments for this condition. But the choice of treatment depends on what is causing your spots.
1. Lifestyle Changes
- Sun protection: This is the most important and number one thing. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every time you go outside. Wear a hat, carry an umbrella. Limit your time outside during strong sunlight.
- Stopping medication: Sometimes these spots are caused by a medication you are taking, so talk to your doctor to see if you can change the medication. Never stop taking medication without your doctor's advice.
- Taking vitamins: If it is due to a vitamin deficiency, the doctor will advise you to take the necessary vitamins.
2. Topical Creams
There are many types of creams on the market that claim to reduce these spots. Some of these need to be prescribed by a doctor.
- Hydroquinone: This is a powerful cream that reduces melanin production.
- Azelaic acid: This is very good for spots caused by acne.
- Kojic acid: This also helps control melanin production.
- Vitamin C and Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide): These help brighten the skin.
- Tretinoin: This increases the rate of skin cell renewal.
Most importantly: Do not buy these types of cosmetics from the pharmacy and use them at your own discretion. Some cosmetics are strong and can damage the skin if used incorrectly. Be sure to see a dermatologist and get advice on what is best for your skin.
3. Specialized Medical Treatments
If regular cosmetics do not reduce the spots, there are special treatments performed by dermatologists.
- Chemical peels: This involves removing the top layer of skin using a special chemical.
- Laser skin resurfacing: Laser rays are used to target and remove skin cells that have dark spots.
- Cryotherapy: Using extreme cold (such as liquid nitrogen) to destroy dark cells.
How can you not be depressed with these spots?
Sometimes, you may feel embarrassed or ashamed because of the spots on your face. That's very normal. But remember, this is not something that only happens to you.
- Be patient: Treatment can take several months, possibly up to a year, to see results. So be patient with your treatment.
- Don't pop pimples: Squeezing or popping pimples or other lesions increases the risk of scarring.
- You are not alone: this condition affects millions of people around the world. So don't be ashamed of it.
- Take good care of your skin: Keep your skin healthy by cleansing it daily and applying a moisturizer.
When should you see a doctor immediately?
Hyperpigmentation is usually not harmful. However, if you have any of the following symptoms along with your skin spots, you should definitely see a doctor.
| Feature to pay attention to |
|---|
| If the spot is red |
| If it feels hot to the touch |
| If you scratch hard |
| If there is pain |
| If something like blood or pus is draining from that area |
Having symptoms like these could be a sign of a skin infection or other serious condition.
Take-Home Message
- Hyperpigmentation is a very common and usually harmless condition that causes dark spots to appear on the skin.
- The main reason for this is exposure to sunlight . Therefore, it is very important to protect yourself from the sun.
- Although there are treatments, they take time to show results. So be patient.
- Do not use any over-the-counter cosmetics without medical advice. Always consult a dermatologist.
- If your spots are accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, itching, or redness, see a doctor immediately.
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