Pigment spots are skin abnormalities. However, there is no need to worry—these pigment spots are benign and, aside from perhaps being cosmetically bothersome, do not pose a problem. In most cases, they are brownish in color and are referred to in medical terminology as “pigmented nevi.” There are various causes for the appearance of these pigment spots, which we will try to explain as best we can below.
Definition
Freckles, age spots, moles, etc.—there are many types of pigmented spots. They can come in various shapes and sizes. They are considered most bothersome on the arms, hands, and face.
Causes of Pigment Spots
Freckles
Freckles are most common in redheaded women and men. They are usually caused by excessive exposure to sunlight. These types of pigment spots most often appear on the face, upper body, and shoulders. However, freckles can also be caused by genetic predisposition.
Melasma
This type of pigmentation is caused by hormones. It is triggered by taking birth control pills or can be attributed to pregnancy. Melasma appears on the face, particularly on the forehead and cheeks. Individual small patches of pigmentation may merge to form larger patches.
“Vitiligo” is the medical term for the small white patches of depigmentation that are said to affect about 2% of the population. The exact causes of this condition have not yet been clearly established. It may be due to a thyroid dysfunction or an impaired immune system, which attacks the skin’s melanocytes and subsequently causes white or light-colored patches to appear on the skin.
Moles & Sunspots
This is what a dermatologist means by a “lentigo.” Possible causes include an excessive number of melanocytes and increased melanin production. Sunspots often develop as early as childhood when certain areas of the body are exposed to a lot of sun.
Genetic Predisposition as a Cause
In general, pigment spots are often caused by a genetic predisposition. If you have any concerns, it’s best to schedule a consultation with your dermatologist.
