What causes dark spots all over your body? Age spots are caused by overactive pigment cells. Ultraviolet (UV) light speeds up the production of melanin, a natural pigment that gives skin its color. On skin
What causes dark spots all over your body?
Age spots are caused by overactive pigment cells. Ultraviolet (UV) light speeds up the production of melanin, a natural pigment that gives skin its color. On skin that has had years of sun exposure, age spots appear when melanin becomes clumped or is produced in high concentrations.
What disease causes black spots on skin?
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.
What does brown patches on your skin mean?
Hyperpigmentation is a common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding skin. This darkening occurs when an excess of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color, forms deposits in the skin.
What does melasma mean?
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots. It’s often called the “mask of pregnancy.” Melasma happens because of overproduction of the cells that make the color of your skin.
Do dark spots go away?
Once you stop what’s causing the dark spots or patches, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years.
What do black spots on your skin mean?
Dark spots on the face can result from hyperpigmentation, which is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin produces too much melanin. Hyperpigmentation can be due to sun exposure, scarring, aging, and more. Many dark spots are harmless.
How do I get rid of brown spots on my skin?
Age spot treatments include:
- Medications. Applying prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid might gradually fade the spots over several months.
- Laser and intense pulsed light.
- Freezing (cryotherapy).
- Dermabrasion.
- Microdermabrasion.
- Chemical peel.
How can I get rid of melasma permanently?
Hydroquinone: This medication is a common first treatment for melasma. Tretinoin and corticosteroids: To enhance skin lightening, your dermatologist may prescribe a second medicine. Other topical (applied to the skin) medicines: Your dermatologist may prescribe azelaic acid or kojic acid to help reduce melasma.