Pigmented spots on the skin of the face are one of the signs of skin aging, but they can also be caused by other factors of different origin and nature. In this article, we will briefly analyze the main types of spots that can appear on the face.
What are the reasons?
Dark spots on the skin of the face in most cases, but not always, are the result of changes in the work of melanocytes - the cells involved in the production of pigment. Thus, the distribution of melanin becomes uneven and the skin becomes mottled.
As mentioned above, age is not the only reason that determines the appearance of age spots. Among other factors responsible for the occurrence of these imperfections, we should mention: infectious and non-infectious processes (pityriasis versicolor, rosacea , vitiligo, etc.), genetic predisposition, hormonal influences ( melasma and chloasma ), taking certain medications, contact with chemicals.
Senile lentigo is a typical example of age spots caused by the aging process. Skin aging is a natural biological phenomenon that cannot be avoided. Of course, solar radiation, cigarette smoke, wind and smog can accelerate skin aging: free radicals damage the skin, making it more delicate and vulnerable. The mechanisms that regulate melanin production are weakened, and as a result, age spots appear, very noticeable on the face and hands. Usually they are dark brown in color, round in shape, and are caused by hyperpigmentation, which affects not only the surface layer of the skin, but also deeper. In addition, when the action of ultraviolet is added, keratin is oxidized, and the epidermis becomes thicker.
Solar lentigo is a result of excessive exposure to sunlight. It appears on the face and areas most exposed to the sun and UV sources , including artificial sources such as tanning lamps. These are spots of dark yellow or hazel color.
Melasma and chloasma . Brown spots often occur in patients taking estrogen-based drugs, such as birth control pills or drugs used in hormone replacement therapy. Hormonal changes in the body affect the rhythm of pigment production. It is because of the hormonal shift in pregnant women that spots on the face of gray or brown may appear . This phenomenon is also known as " chloasma " or "pregnancy mask". The condition is reversible, the disappearance of spots almost always coincides with the postpartum period. Likewise, women entering menopause are more likely to develop age spots due to hormonal changes associated with this stage of life.
Spots and pathologies
Our skin is able after a while to express the presence of disorders in the body. For example, it has been recorded that in patients suffering from adrenal dysfunction, the pathology is also manifested by the appearance of spots on the skin. The same applies to diseases of the liver or blood.
How to get rid?
Of course, the therapeutic approach to the problem depends on the cause that caused it. In the event that the spots are associated with temporary disorders - as happens, for example, with chloasma - no treatment is needed, such pigmentation disappears over time. If hyperpigmentation is caused by concomitant diseases, it is necessary to treat the latter . In some cases, spots on the skin remain even with adequate treatment of the provoking disease.
On the cosmetic market there are many products designed to reduce age spots. However, before resorting to the use of such products , we remind you of the importance of contacting a dermatologist. The doctor will determine the exact cause of the spots and assess the presence of any contraindications to the use of funds. To combat hyperpigmentation, the specialists of the MC " Bogolyuby " successfully use the photosystem of the Italian company Deca .
