Pigment spots are changes in the skin that are usually brownish in color. Especially on the face, they can be a source of distress for those affected. In everyday language, these can include birthmarks, freckles, moles, or age spots. In the vast majority of cases, they are benign, and there is no need to worry about having a serious illness. To help you stay well-informed in the future, we’ve summarized the most important facts about pigment spots on the face.
Causes & General Information
Pigment spots most commonly appear in areas of the body that are particularly exposed to sunlight—namely, the face, hands, arms, and upper body. Women are more likely to develop pigment spots than men. In addition, as you get older, the likelihood of developing pigment spots on your face, hands, and arms increases. However, many types of pigment spots are simply inherited.
Freckles
This primarily affects women and men with red hair. Freckles are usually found on the face. If you are one of these people, make sure to use good sun protection. In general, you should avoid the sun as much as possible and not expose yourself to direct sunlight.
Melasma
The appearance of these dark spots is related to hormones. Possible causes include taking the birth control pill or pregnancy. Melasma also appears on the face—on the forehead and cheeks. Larger dark spots form here when individual melasma patches merge.
White Spot Disease
This condition affects about 2% of the population. Unlike many other types, however, the pigmented spots are not brownish but white or at least light in color. The causes may include thyroid dysfunction or an impaired immune system. The skin’s melanocytes are then attacked, leading to the formation of the pigmented spots.
Age spots
Both women and men begin to experience these pigment spots around the age of 40. Laser therapies and special treatments using bleaching agents are available, through which a dermatologist can provide relief. These pigment spots can be particularly bothersome on the face and hands.
Check and take precautions just to be safe
Go for regular mole checkups and have your dermatologist examine you. This will ensure that the spots are truly harmless and that you don’t have skin cancer. Experts can also give you tips on how best to treat these pigmented spots so that your complexion looks even again.
