Dark spots on the body is a fairly common aesthetic defect that many women and men are trying to cope with. But you need to understand that you can get rid of such stains only by identifying and eliminating the cause of their appearance.
In some cases, the appearance of pigmented spots on the body can be a symptom of a serious disease, such as skin cancer. Therefore, the treatment of pathological pigmentation should be carried out by a specialist - a dermatologist, since the use folk remedies is not always successful, and sometimes has a negative impact on health.
A dermatologist will conduct a comprehensive examination of the body and, if necessary, refer you to related specialists. Only after the cause of pigmentation on the body is known, the doctor will give medical recommendations or prescribe cosmetic procedures that will help lighten problem areas on the skin.
The most common causes of age spots on the body are:
- prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
- hormonal imbalance;
- diseases of the skin of an inflammatory nature;
- use of low quality cosmetics;
- side effects of certain medications;
- skin aging.
Let's look at each reason in more detail.
Pigment spots are an accumulation of melanin pigment in skin cells, which is synthesized in the body under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, long exposure to direct sunlight leads to excessive formation of melanin, mainly in exposed areas of the body. As a result, pigmented spots appear on the skin.
Pregnancy– this is a period characterized by enormous hormonal changes in the body. Hormones are involved in the regulation of all processes in the human body, including melanin synthesis. Therefore, many women, while carrying a child, develop pigment spots on their bodies, especially in the face and along the midline of the abdomen.
Also pigment spots act as residual effects after acne, injuries or cuts, since these defects are most sensitive to ultraviolet rays.
Some cosmetic ingredients, for example, retinoic acid, bergamot, fragrances or lime essential oil, help increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet rays, causing pigmented spots to appear on the body.
In addition, there are medications, side effects of which manifest themselves in the form of pigmentation on the body. These medications include oral hormonal contraceptives (progestins, estrogens), antimicrobials (Levofloxacin), cytostatics and others.
According to the classification, there are five types of age spots, namely:
- chloasma;
- lentigo;
- post-acne;
- freckles;
- nevi.
Chloasma It is dark or yellow, predominantly irregularly shaped spots that have a smooth surface and clear contours. Such defects are most often observed during pregnancy due to changes in the woman’s hormonal levels. Typical locations for chloasma are the face, torso, abdomen, and thighs.
After childbirth, a woman’s hormonal levels normalize, so chloasma in most cases goes away without a trace. But for some women, such defects can remain for life, and you can get rid of them with the help of medications or salon cosmetic procedures.
Lentigo It is customary to call dark brown or brown spots raised above the skin round or oval shape, which can be of various sizes - from a dot to a five-kopeck coin. In turn, such age spots are divided into juvenile and senile.
Juvenile lentigo appear on the skin of adolescents during a surge of sex hormones, when puberty occurs.
Senile, or whatever they are called age spots, age spots, appear in older people due to aging of skin cells.
Lentigo can also be removed using cosmetics or procedures.
Post-acne– these are pigment spots that remain at the site of pimples, blackheads and other inflammatory skin processes. This type pigmentation is more common in young people who suffer from acne. Post-acne may go away over time without any intervention, but if this does not happen, cosmetic products can easily cope with such a skin problem.
Freckles look like small specks of yellow, copper or Brown. The favorite place for freckles to appear is the face, since it is the most exposed part of the body. But pigmentation can also often be present on the skin of the neck, collar area of the chest, shoulders, back and back of the hands.
During the cold season, freckles lighten, and with the onset of the spring-summer season, their color becomes brighter. Such pigmentation does not bring any subjective sensations. Some people with freckles are ashamed of their appearance because of them, while the other part considers themselves special, turning such cosmetic defects into their dignity.
Nevi, which are popularly called moles, are the same age spots that have different color intensities, shapes and sizes. Moles can have a convex or flat surface. Despite the fact that nevi do not cause any discomfort, you need to carefully monitor any changes that may occur to them. This is explained by the fact that they can transform into a malignant neoplasm - melanoma.
Signs of transition of nevus to melanoma There may be a change in shape, the presence of inflammation, ulcers on its surface, pain, or a change in color. If you detect at least one of the listed signs, you should consult a dermatologist. Early diagnosis of melanoma significantly increases the chances of recovery.
How and with what to treat age spots on the skin?
Unfortunately, not all pigment spots can be treated, but with the help modern means and methods can make them less noticeable. The hardest ones to get rid of are freckles and lentigo.
Also, some stains may disappear on their own without any action on them. This is often observed in the case of chloasma, which disappears without a trace after childbirth.
It is also important to determine the cause of age spots, since eliminating it will lighten the pigmentation or completely remove it.
Can be used in the fight against age spots the following methods:
- drug therapy;
- salon cosmetology procedures;
- cosmetical tools;
- facilities traditional medicine.
Let's take a closer look at each method of treating pigmentation on the body.
Since pigment spots are accumulations of melanin, which is formed in excess quantities in the skin, drugs that inhibit its production are used to treat pigmentation.
Folic, ascorbic, azelaic and koyenoic acids reduce the production of melanin, so you need to select a drug that contains at least one of the listed components.
Quite affordable and effective in the fight against age spots on the body are the following drugs:
- Melanativ cream;
- Achromin cream;
- Clotrimazole ointment;
- syntomycin emulsion;
- salicylic alcohol.
To achieve the desired result, you must regularly use the listed products for 4-8 weeks.
Treatment of age spots using salon procedures
Modern hardware cosmetology is the most effective method getting rid of pigmentation on the body. But, unfortunately, due to the high cost of the procedures, not everyone can afford them. It is also important to entrust your skin only to an experienced cosmetologist who has a higher medical education.
Pigment spots on the skin can be remove using the following salon procedures:
- laser removal;
- removal with liquid nitrogen;
- phototherapy;
- chemical peeling.
Let's talk separately about each method.
Removing pigmentation with laser has a number of advantages, including painlessness, minimal trauma, local impact and high efficiency.
During the laser therapy procedure, a laser is directed at the pigment spot, which destroys melanin, due to which the problem area becomes lighter. After the first procedure, the pigment spot turns red and begins to peel off; when the surface of the defect is cleansed, the skin becomes its normal color.
liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) It is also a highly effective method that removes old epidermal cells and activates skin regeneration. The disadvantage of cryotherapy is that red spots remain at the site of pigmentation, which disappear only after a few weeks.
Phototherapy- This is the destruction of melanin in skin cells using infrared flashes. This procedure is also painless and atraumatic, and the recovery period lasts several days.
Chemical peeling involves applying chemical compounds to problem areas that lighten the skin and eliminate pigmentation. The most popular and effective are peels with salicylic or triacetic acids. In addition, this procedure normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands, tightens pores, prevents the appearance of age spots and acne, and smoothes out wrinkles.
Cosmetics to combat pigmentation on the body
Cosmetics today have proven themselves to be excellent in the fight against pigmentation. various manufacturers, namely:
- Bodyaga and Bodyaga forte;
- Boro plus cream;
- Klivrin cream;
- Idealia Pro serum from Vichy;
- Vitex mask;
- Biocon whitening cream and many others.
The listed cosmetics received a lot of positive reviews both from those who used them and from specialists.
Folk remedies can also lighten age spots on the skin and even completely eliminate them. To prepare masks, compresses or lotions, natural ingredients rich in ascorbic and other acids, which have a whitening effect, are used.
Top effective and simple folk remedies against age spots on the body:
- daily rubbing of problem areas on the body with the juice of parsley, cabbage, lemon, raspberries or viburnum;
- rubbing skin affected by pigmentation with kefir or yogurt;
- mask with cucumber and kefir;
- white clay and chamomile. 100 ml of chamomile decoction is mixed with two tablespoons of white cosmetic clay and apply to the skin for 30 minutes, then wash off warm water no soap;
- bearberry, yarrow or licorice extract, which are added to cream or body lotion;
- compresses and lotions with 0.9% sodium chloride solution.
How to prevent the appearance of age spots on the body?
Preventing the occurrence of such defects is much easier than getting rid of them. The following recommendations will help you with this:
- avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
- use sunscreens with a high degree of protection in the summer;
- wear hats when going out in the sun;
- minimize visits to the solarium, because tanning, of course, is beautiful, but pigment spots are not so much;
- use only high-quality skin cosmetics;
- eat enough foods rich in vitamins (fruits, vegetables, herbs, berries).
Pigment spots on the skin today are not a global problem, since they can be eliminated using modern technologies, supplemented by traditional methods.
Brown spots on the face are a fairly common cosmetic defect that can drive any woman into despair. According to statistics, pigment spots are a typically female problem. And to restore the skin to its flawless appearance, many use anti-pigmentation cosmetics. However, the causes of brown spots on the face are often related to health conditions, so this is what you need to take care of first. In this publication we will talk about the reasons for the appearance of such spots, their types and methods of eliminating them in the salon and using home remedies.
Causes of brown spots on the face
The appearance of a visible cosmetic defect in the form of a brown spot on the face can be caused by various reasons. Common factors that cause dark spots to appear include:
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Dark spots on the skin of the face: types and features
The type of skin pigmentation is determined by its etiology. The appearance of brown moles or warts may indicate the presence of a hereditary disease - seborrheic keratosis.
Dark colored areas on the face are characteristic of melasma arising due to the active production of melanin. The spots can be either very small or quite extensive. This problem is familiar to many women, as well as tanning enthusiasts. During pregnancy and during periods of age-related changes in the body, the formation of pigmented areas increases. Hormonal and contraceptive medications can also lead to increased pigmentation. Increased melanin production is also observed in older people.
The appearance on the face of brown or red skin areas that have a rough and flaky appearance indicates the development of actic keratosis. This disease occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to active ultraviolet radiation. If timely and competent treatment is not started, it is possible that the pigmented areas will degenerate into cancerous tumors.
Emergence black spots on face- not yet a reason to panic. It's more likely due to age-related changes. But still, it doesn’t hurt to undergo an examination and consult a doctor to rule out serious diseases.
Typical sign juvenile melanoma are light brown lumps that arise due to hereditary predisposition and regular trauma to the skin against this background. Freckles or ephelides, which look like brown dots, appear on the face due to the congenital characteristics of a person. This is how light skin reacts to the influence of solar radiation. Most often, freckles “decorate” the cheeks and nose and appear from childhood. Particularly noticeable during warm periods, when solar radiation is most active. .png" alt="Freckles on the face" width="450" height="325" srcset="" data-srcset="https://kozha-lica.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/img-2018-10-21-12-42-46-450x325..png 726w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px">
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If the oblong neoplasms have a convex shape and are dark brown in color, dermatologists in this case diagnose lentigo. The spots are small in size - up to 2-5 mm with clear boundaries, often thickened and protruding above the surface of the skin. There are two main forms of the disease:
- Age spots, also called senile spots, are associated with the aging process and thinning of the skin. The disease is often preceded by excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
- Juvenile lentigo is a genetically determined disease in which pigmentation appears not only on the face, but throughout the body - on the shoulders, chest and limbs.
Lack of drug treatment for lentigo can lead to carcinoma.
How to get rid of pigment spots in the salon
Whether pigmentation treatment is required or not, only a doctor can make a final verdict after finding out the reasons for the appearance of dark spots. Therefore, treatment of pigmentation must necessarily include the following steps:
- Visit a dermatologist and undergo an examination with laboratory tests.
- Visit a cosmetologist to determine the extent of damage to the epidermis and follow the recommendations received. For example, taking a course of vitamin therapy, in particular taking vitamin C.
- If the cause of pigmentation is harmful working conditions, you may need to change jobs.
Basically, the treatment of pigmentation consists of taking prescribed medications and completing a course necessary procedures. If there is no effect of treatment with cosmetic creams with whitening properties, experts can recommend:
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The above procedures are based on removing the upper layers of the epidermis. Thanks to this, new skin cells are formed, clean and healthy.
The biorejuvenation procedure deserves special attention, helping to restore moisture, elasticity of the skin, lightening it and saturating it with nutrients. But the main value of the procedure is that it starts all the processes of self-renewal and self-rejuvenation and helps not only remove existing spots on the skin, but also prevent the appearance of new pigmented areas.
Benefits of cosmetic procedures
The use of cosmetic procedures has a number of advantages:
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If the causes of dark spots are identified and taken into account in a timely manner individual characteristics body, then the effect of the procedures will be maximum.
How can traditional medicine help?
You can remove small spots yourself or lighten them at home. To do this, you will need to prepare whitening products based on natural ingredients. Most of the ingredients for making masks and lotions are available in almost every home. And you can always buy them at your nearest grocery store.
To remove brown spots from the face, traditional medicine recommends:
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With proper preparation and systematic use of whitening products based on natural ingredients, you can get rid of pigmentation on your face, achieve a lasting positive result and eliminate relapses.
The high popularity of traditional medicine to get rid of spots on the face is explained by their undoubted advantages. These recipes have stood the test of time, and thanks to natural composition homemade medications do not expose the skin to harmful effects.
Home Recipes to Get Rid of Face Spots
Pure or diluted in a 1:1 ratio lemon juice will effectively remove pigment spots and whiten the skin. If the stains are treated daily, then after a few months there will be no trace left of them.
Good for removing age spots and Castor oil . Additionally, treating your leather with oil will improve the texture of your leather.
Effectively acts on pigmented areas and onion juice.
To even out your complexion, wipe it with an oil solution. vitamin E And aloe juice..png" alt="Aloe juice for pigmentation" width="328" height="450" srcset="" data-srcset="https://kozha-lica.ru/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/img-2017-01-30-16-42-49-328x450..png 425w" sizes="(max-width: 328px) 100vw, 328px">
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The following will help lighten brown spots well: mask:
- squeeze the juice from a quarter of a lemon;
- take 30 ml of natural apple cider vinegar and aloe;
- mix the ingredients and add 80 ml of natural yogurt;
- apply the mixture to the problem area;
- leave until completely dry;
- rinse with warm water;
- moisturize the skin with cream.
Universal whitening agent - fresh parsley paste. Apply to problem areas and rinse with water after half an hour.
Helps you lighten brown areas parsley and honey paste, taken in equal parts.
Parsley juice and sour cream will also help solve the problem of dark spots. The components are taken in equal parts. Wash off after leaving on face for 30 minutes.
Prepare for wiping pigmented areas simple and effective lemon peel lotion:
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Mask of starch and lemon juice:
- take 0.5 tbsp. spoons of starch;
- add lemon juice to the starch until a paste forms;
- apply to cleansed skin;
- stand for 30 minutes;
- rinse with warm water.
Preparation homemade mask from age spots from starch, salt and honey watch in the video:
Preventing brown spots
To prevent brown spots from appearing, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Be sure to wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Use it special creams, oils and liquids with UF filters. Do not forget to consult a doctor promptly if you have problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Get rid of bad habits, spend more time in the fresh air, eat a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Most brown spots on the skin are not dangerous, but you should definitely pay attention to their appearance. It is advisable to consult a specialist about the cause of increased skin pigmentation. If everything is in order with your health, you can use numerous methods to eliminate brown spots on the face and other areas of the skin.
Do you work in the beauty industry?.
DNA damage
In those forms of pigmentation that are caused by DNA damage, violations of cellular memory lead to the fact that new cells are reproduced damaged and turn out to be the same as their predecessors. As with cellular aging of melanocytes, cells with damaged DNA are difficult to treat. However, this problem is easier to prevent.
The main cause of DNA damage is (what would you think?) ultraviolet radiation. However, a genetic predisposition to damage is also common - in the form of the presence of the Mc1r gene (red hair gene). This gene is more sensitive than others to the effects of free radicals, so preventive measures are extremely important.
To correct this type of pigmentation, a triple action can be taken: antioxidants (for prevention), vitamin A (for damaged DNA) and tyrosinase inhibitors (to slow down melanin production).
Pigmentation as a consequence of hormonal imbalance
This type of pigmentation is caused by melanocytes receiving chemical signals that stimulate melanogenesis.
In this case, the pituitary gland is influenced by pregnancy or increased drug intake, which causes a prolonged flow of melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH, melanotropin). Melanocytes receive excess MSH and continuously produce pigment-containing melanosomes, not knowing when to stop.
Less than one minimum erythemal dose of ultraviolet irradiation is required to provoke the flow of hormones.
In cases of hormonal imbalance, incorrect signals can cause overactive melanin production by melanocytes, creating a characteristic butterfly-shaped pigmentation lesion.
In this situation, the only solution to the problem with a long-lasting effect is to counteract the signals that cause cells to produce excess melanin. As soon as the work of melanocytes normalizes, the pigment becomes less noticeable. The first stage of stopping the “chemical waterfall” occurs when the cause of the failure disappears, that is, the medication is stopped or the pregnancy ends.
Techniques that chemically interrupt the chain of instructions for the production of melanosomes are the best solution in this situation. Tyrosinase inhibitors play an important role in the volume of melanosome production.
Essential fatty acid deficiency (dendritic shortening)
Forms of pigmentation caused by cellular starvation are easier to treat. Typical development: due to a lack of essential fatty acids, melanocyte dendrites become shorter and lose flexibility.
Shortening of dendrites leads to disruption of melanin transport to keratinocytes. Even if melanocytes produce the required amount of melanin, its distribution is severely limited.
This causes melanin to be deposited in close proximity to the melanocyte instead of being more evenly distributed among the thirty or so surrounding keratinocytes. A typical consequence is darkening of the skin. The size of the darkening zone varies from a small spot to larger areas, depending on the condition of the melanocytes.
Cosmetologists should be well aware that essential fatty acids (EFAs) are essential for the health of dendritic cells. And since EFAs are not produced by the body during metabolism, their supply must be ensured through topical application or presence in consumed foods and nutritional supplements.
It is clear that in this case, pigmentation will respond better to treatment methods based on an appropriate diet and nutritional supplements, and EFAs should be included in preparatory stage treatment of pigmentation of any type. In this case, we take steps to normalize the behavior of melanocytes, thereby providing a long-term solution to the problem.
A typical example of pigmentation,
caused by EFA deficiency
Structure of the epidermis
Another factor that, like shortened dendrites, causes melanin deposition is the thickness of the stratum spinosum of the epidermis. The stratum spinosum is the thickest zone of the epidermis. In Caucasian people, it is in this layer that the most active interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes occurs. If the stratum spinosum becomes depleted, the area where melanin deposition occurs is consequently reduced and uneven pigment distribution may occur.
This situation needs to be approached comprehensively and before starting a treatment program, focus on increasing the number of keratinocytes and the thickness of the epidermis.
Keratinocyte stem cells
Keratinocytes- these are hydrophobic cells that make up 80% of all epidermal cells. The supply of these cells is almost endless because keratinocyte stem cells lie deep in the epidermal strands and around the thickening of the hair follicle near the attachment of the hair muscle.
A recent study notes that melanocytes can affect keratinocyte stem cells. In this situation, the melanocyte can shed pigment-containing melanosomes onto the keratinocyte stem cell source, and if this happens, stem cell becomes pigmented even before it enters the basal layer of the epidermis. Traveling through the spinous layer, the keratinocyte receives additional pigment - that is, it ultimately receives a double dose. Another place where melanosome deposition occurs is at the boundary between the dermis and epidermis.
Obviously, treatments other than tyrosinase inhibitors will not have a significant effect in this case.
The main source of problems is again the habit of melanocytes to deposit melanin, so an effective approach to treatment should be to slow down the formation of new portions of pigment. Attempts to deal with already deposited melanin will, at best, give incomplete and short-term results.
conclusions
We have identified the following main causes of pigmentation:
Cellular senescence associated with cell age
DNA damage caused by free radicals and the Mc1r gene
Shortening of dendrites and damage to cell membranes as a consequence of EFA deficiency
Insufficient thickness of the spinous layer of the epidermis
However, knowing the cause of pigmentation does not provide a complete answer to the question of treatment. Once treatment begins, understanding what is happening to the cells will help ensure that the treatment is chosen. correct technique(if the specific disease responds positively to the chosen treatment). When studying pigmentation, the process of the emergence of new cells and the role of stem cells become clear, which should be taken into account when searching for the causes of the disease.
Treatment options
Effective treatments include:
Use of tyrosinase inhibitors
UV blockers
Antioxidants
Inhibition of melanosome maturation
Denaturation of melanin granules
Slowing intercellular communication
Forced exfoliation
Increasing the content of independent fatty acids in the skin
Understanding the causes of pigmentation leads us to the inevitable conclusion that there is no single solution, and a treatment program may require the use of all of these methods to achieve any result.
Before drawing up a treatment program, it is important to analyze the skin condition and interview the patient. The result of the analysis, which determines the cause of pigmentation and its effect on the cells and systems of the skin, the client’s skin type and its Fitzpatrick phototype, the client’s age and lifestyle - this is what dictates the treatment protocols, which must always be followed. The approach must be differentiated: what suits one client may not suit another.
It also requires the client to understand that without their input into lifestyle changes, self-care and salon treatments, long-term improvement cannot be achieved.
The following sequence of preparation and treatment produces the best long-term results because it meets the specific needs of all affected cells and systems.
Preparatory phase: restoration of the cell membrane of melanocytes ( home care for at least two weeks)
Cream-gels based on antioxidants, with protection against ultraviolet rays.
Omega-3 fatty acids, 3000 mg daily. Vitamin C, 1000 mg/day and a cream based on magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate - to prepare the skin and allow it to get used to vitamin C.
Preparatory phase: first procedure (preparing the skin for the penetration of active substances)
Light peeling at the level of the stratum corneum with lactic acid or microdermabrasion. Suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types. Lactic acid does not cause inflammatory reactions and has a moisturizing effect. There are many peeling acid mixtures available today. Do not forget that this is a preparatory phase of treatment, and not a solution to the problem. Depending on the condition of the skin, it may be necessary to repeat the course several times.
Preparatory phase: after exfoliation, home care should be strengthened
We introduce vitamin A-based creams and continue to use vitamin C-based creams or serums with antioxidants and UV protection. We continue taking nutritional supplements.
Treatment phase: primary treatment (course of at least 10 procedures)
A skin lightening program of your choice, containing tyrosinase inhibitors, antioxidants and vitamin A. Very effective in the fight against pigmentation.
As a result of the color relationship, human skin acquires a certain shade. The main color participants include:
- the blue color represents reduced hemoglobin in the human venous system (after it gives oxygen to the tissues);
- the red color is formed by oxidized hemoglobin in the blood in small arterial blood vessels;
- It is the carotenoids found in the stratum corneum and epidermis that give the skin its yellow color;
- black color is determined by melanin.
The main reasons that provoke pigmentation disorders are:
- Ultraviolet radiation. This includes not only sun exposure, but also visits to the solarium.
- Skin injury. As a rule, at the site of damage (especially deep), there is an increase in the concentration of pigment, resulting in darkening of the skin.
- Disruptions in the hormonal system. This can occur as a result of taking certain drugs that provoke disruption of the endocrine organs, during the onset of menopausal changes in the body or during pregnancy.
- Liver diseases. The onset of pigmentation can be triggered by hepatitis virus infections.
- Natural aging of the skin. In the human body, with age, certain changes in biochemical reactions begin to occur, which in turn affects changes in the concentration of pigments, therefore, pigmentation begins.
- Improper skin care. As a result of the use of low-quality or inappropriate cosmetics or improper hygiene procedures, the threshold of sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet rays increases.
- Consequences of acne. The formation of local increased pigmentation often occurs after recent acne or other skin diseases.
- Genetic disorders. For example, if there is no proper production of melanin, not only the skin, but also the iris of the eyes become completely defenseless under the influence of ultraviolet rays. People suffering from this disease are called albinos.
- Long-term use of medications. Certain medications can cause increased sensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet rays. This phenomenon is called photosensitization. This must be indicated in the instructions attached to the medications.
Types of age spots
Today, dermatologists identify a fairly large number of skin pigmentation disorders. The main difference is the amount of melanin content, origin, depth of pigment, and time of appearance. But the most common types of age spots are:
Chloasma
These spots are yellowish-brown in color, have clear boundaries, but are irregular in shape and can be of different sizes. As a rule, chloasma forms on the face, but it can also appear on the inner thighs and abdomen.
The formation of chloasma occurs as a result of changes in hormonal levels in women, often observed in girls during puberty, during pregnancy, with the development of certain gynecological diseases, under the condition of long-term use of oral contraceptives as a result of increased sensitivity to the female sex hormone estrogen of melanocytes.
But most often, solar radiation provokes the development of chloasma. Pigmentation disappears after childbirth, the first menstruation, stopping taking contraceptives, or eliminating the causes of gynecological problems. Separately, hepatic chloasma is distinguished, the formation of which occurs in the presence of liver diseases that occur in a chronic form. In this case, pigmentation appears in the neck and cheeks.
Local pigmentation above the upper lip
This type of pigmentation occurs when there is a change in hormonal levels. This phenomenon may be associated with diseases of the thyroid gland, pregnancy, menopause, malfunction of the adrenal glands and the gastrointestinal tract.
Lentigo
This type of hyperpigmentation can appear as a single spot or multiple foci of brown or black-brown color, which slightly rise above the level of the skin.
The spots will have an oval or round shape, clear boundaries, located in the décolleté area, on the arms and face:
- Juvenile lentigo. As a rule, its appearance is due to genetic factors, so it appears before the age of 10 years. Outwardly it looks like abundant pinpoint pigment spots located on the body, much less often on the face.
- Senile lentigo. It appears in old age and is located in areas of the body that are most often exposed to prolonged sun exposure. Unlike juvenile lentigo, senile lentigo is characterized by larger sizes (spots in diameter can reach 2 cm).
Moles
This type of pigmentation may also be called birthmarks or nevi. They can be both congenital and acquired, that is, they appear throughout a person’s life.
This group is one of the most diverse pigment spots that differ in appearance, structure, size and color. For example, if the formation of a mole was caused by an accumulation of melanocytes, it will have a dark brown tint, however, if blood vessel structures also took part in the process of its formation, the color will be reddish.
Nevi occur in almost all people, and they cause almost no concern. But in some cases, moles can degenerate into malignant tumors. That is why it is necessary to closely monitor moles. If there is a change in their outline, shape, shade, or if they cause severe discomfort, you should be examined by a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Freckles
This type of age spots is much less common than moles. As a rule, freckles occur in people with blond or red hair. Freckles can also be called ephelides, which translated means “sun spots.”
They are characterized by relatively small sizes, golden color, and can appear both on the body and face, subject to prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Freckles tend to be symmetrical and large in clusters, and in winter they can become much paler or disappear altogether.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is considered one of the types of hypopigmentation - in a certain area of the skin there is a complete disappearance or decrease in pigment. Not only hereditary factors, but also certain medications or chemicals can trigger the onset of vitiligo.
Treatment and prevention of age spots
If you strictly adhere to certain preventive measures, there is a chance to avoid the appearance of certain types of pigmentation:
- it is necessary to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during the period of its highest activity (from 11 to 17 hours);
- It is recommended to eat as many foods as possible that contain vitamin PP, C, A, including antioxidants;
- Before going outside, special sunscreens must be used without fail, and SPF must be designed for a specific skin type;
- in sunny weather should not be applied to exposed areas of the body essential oils, colognes and perfumes;
- while taking certain medications that have photosensitizing properties, you should avoid ultraviolet rays or change the medication (only after consulting your doctor);
- It is not recommended to stay in the sun for a long time while taking hormonal contraceptives, as well as during pregnancy.
In cases where the cause that provoked this condition has been completely eliminated, but unsightly spots remain on the skin, the following methods and means can be used to remove them.
Chemical peeling
This method is based on the use of special chemical agents (retinoic, trichloroacetic and other acids), due to which the processes of changing cells that were affected during hyperpigmentation are stimulated with new ones that have a normal color. Today there are several types of peeling:
- superficial peeling is used to lighten age spots that are not too deep;
- Medium peeling is used to target pigment spots located in the deeper layers of the skin.
Mesotherapy
Using this method allows you to lighten the pigmented area. This effect is achieved thanks to the introduction hyaluronic acid containing whitening complexes into the middle layers of the skin. As a result, mesotherapy allows not only to lighten age spots, but also to rejuvenate the skin.
Mechanical dermabrasion
This procedure has proven itself in the process of removing pigment spots of a post-traumatic nature. A professional dermacosmetologist will help you choose the right type of dermabrasion - diamond, manual grinding, microcrystalline.
In each case, the type of procedure is determined on a strictly individual basis. After it is carried out, tissue restoration processes are launched, cell renewal begins, and as a result, skin hyperpigmentation disappears.
Laser peeling
This cosmetic procedure can only be performed in specialized medical institutions by experienced doctors. Lasers differ in their mechanism of action and wavelength.
Laser peeling is based on the destruction of melanin in the affected areas of the skin, thereby removing excess pigmentation without affecting completely healthy skin.
As a rule, to obtain the desired result, 2-3 procedures are required, with a break of at least 30 days between each one.
Phototherapy
This technique is based on the use of light wave energy. As a result of exposure to high-energy light, the process of thermal destruction of the pigment occurs. The process of elastin and collagen production also begins to activate.
Immediately after the procedure, pigment spots are not completely removed, since this method helps to start the processes of destruction of melanin in the treated area. It is necessary to undergo a full course of phototherapy, which consists of 3-4 procedures, depending on the severity of the problem and the extent of the damage.
Whitening cream
To remove pigmentation, experienced cosmetologists recommend using special whitening creams. In almost all cases, this product contains a toxic substance such as hydroquinone, as well as its derivatives.
After applying the cream to problem areas, the activity of melanocytes slows down and lightening of pigmented areas begins. It is strictly forbidden to use this product during breastfeeding and pregnancy.
Despite the fact that this cream is one of the most effective means against pigmentation, it should not be used for too long, as it is highly toxic.
A popular cream is one that contains azelaic acid. The remedy is most effective if the pigmentation problem began after acne. The cream has not only a brightening effect, but also an anti-inflammatory effect.
Natural masks
Natural remedies should include ingredients such as cucumber, lemon, dandelion, parsley and currants. Such masks have a gentle effect, unlike chemical whitening creams, but they are no less effective.
Whitening masks should be applied directly to pigmented areas. You can use fresh juice or gruel formulations. The exposure time is approximately 20–30 minutes, after which any nourishing cream must be applied to the skin.
Today there is no universal method for treating pigmentation. But with an integrated approach, you can quickly get rid of this problem and restore the skin.
How to treat pigmentation on the face, see more here:
Each person has their own skin tone, which is determined genetically. Normally, human skin pigmentation is determined by the following four main components:
- epidermal;
- carotenoids;
- oxygenated hemoglobin;
- deoxygenated hemoglobin.
It is melanin, located between the keratinocytes surrounding melanocytes, that is the main factor that determines skin color. In fair-skinned people, the skin most typically contains the light brown type of melanin (pheomelanin) in small quantities. And dark-skinned people have dark brown melanin (eumelanin) in large quantities. It is the ratio between pheomelanin and eumelanin that determines skin tone.
Most people experience pigmentation disorders during their lifetime. In most cases they are benign, limited and reversible. A striking example of such temporary disorders can be hyper- or hypopigmentation of the skin in inflammatory dermatoses. They exist for several months, but then completely disappear on their own. But some pigmentation disorders may be irreversible, can only be corrected with surgery, or cannot be cured.
In our article we will introduce you to the main types of skin pigmentation disorders and those diseases that are characteristic of this or that pathology.
Main types of skin pigmentation disorders
Dermatologists distinguish three main types of pigmentation disorders:
- Leucoderma. This disorder is accompanied by hypopigmentation and is caused by a decrease or complete absence of melanin.
- Melasma. This pigmentation is accompanied by hyperpigmentation and is caused by excess melanin deposition.
- Gray-blue dispigmentation. This disorder occurs against the background of the presence of melanin in the skin and is accompanied by the deposition of melanin or non-melanin changes in the color of the skin.
Each of these pigmentation disorders is not an independent disease. These terms refer to those characteristic signs that can be observed on the skin of patients with various diseases, accompanied by changes in the color of the skin, hair or eyes.
Leucoderma
Depending on the causes of development, several types of leukoderma are distinguished.
Infectious leucoderma
Such pigmentation disorders are caused by various infectious diseases:
- leprosy;
- pityriasis versicolor;
- pityriasis alba;
- lichen planus.
Syphilitic leucoderma
At the secondary stage of syphilis, the patient develops skin symptoms of syphilitic leukoderma. White spots are most often localized in the form of a necklace around the neck (necklace of Venus), less often - on the arms and torso. Changes in skin pigmentation do not cause discomfort, but may not disappear for several years.
The following types of syphilitic leukoderma are distinguished:
- lace (or mesh) - white spots appear on the skin, which merge with each other and form a mesh pattern reminiscent of lace;
- marbled - characterized by weak pigmentation around the white spots;
- spotted - characterized by the appearance of multiple round or oval white spots of the same size against the background of hyperpigmentation.
Leprosy leukoderma
Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by mycobacteria Mycobacterium leprae or lepromatosis and is accompanied by lesions nervous system, skin and some other organs. Sharply defined spots appear on the patient’s skin white, which may be surrounded by a reddish rim. In the area of pigmentation disorders, there is a loss of sensitivity or changes in it. Areas of compaction appear under the spots, which lead to the formation of folds.
Leucoderma in lichen versicolor
Tinea versicolor can be caused by the fungi Malassezia furfur or Pityriasis orbicularis. They affect the skin or scalp. Pathogens produce special enzymes that act on melanocytes and cause the cessation of melanin production. Because of this, white spots appear on the skin, which are especially clearly visible after tanning (these areas of the skin remain completely white). Most often, such symptoms are observed in the upper torso.
Leucoderma with lichen alba
So far, scientists have not established the reasons for the development of white lichen. With this disease, which is most often observed in children from 3 to 16 years of age (mainly in boys), white rounded areas of depigmentation appear on the skin of the cheeks, shoulders and sides of the thighs. They rise slightly above its surface and peel off almost imperceptibly. White spots become especially noticeable after sunbathing. Areas of dyspigmentation do not cause unpleasant sensations (sometimes they can itch and burn slightly). After a few months or a year, the white spots disappear on their own. In rare cases, with the chronic form of lichen alba, they can persist into adulthood.
Leukoderma in lichen planus
The reasons for the development of lichen planus are still unknown. It is assumed that this disease, accompanied by damage to the skin and mucous membranes (sometimes nails), can be caused by viruses, nervous stress or toxins. Lichen planus is more common in adults. Small shiny nodules of a dense red, brownish or bluish color appear on the patient’s skin. They are sharply limited from the surrounding areas of the skin or mucous membranes; they can merge and form plaques with a peculiar mesh pattern.
On some nodules, an umbilical indentation may be detected. Rash with red lichen is accompanied by itching, pigmentation disorders and skin atrophy. More often, such nodules appear on the inner surface of the thighs, wrist joints, popliteal fossae, elbow bends or in the ankle area. Can be observed on the genitals and oral mucosa. The rash goes away on its own after a few weeks or months and recurs over many years.
Medicinal leucoderma
This pigmentation disorder develops due to toxic poisoning with certain drugs (for example, steroids or furatsilin).
Professional leucoderma
In people of certain professions, a disorder of skin pigmentation occurs, which is provoked by constant contact with certain toxic substances. Such toxic compounds can act directly on the skin or be ingested.
Congenital leukoderma
Such pigmentation disorders are caused by hereditary diseases (Ziprowski-Margolis, Wulff, Waardenburg syndromes). TO congenital forms leukoderma is also classified as a disease, but so far scientists have not identified the carrier gene for this disease, and this pathology is considered as immune leukoderma.
Albinism
A group of these hereditary diseases of the melanin pigment system is accompanied by a decrease in the number of melanocytes and low level melanin. There are 10 forms of albinism. In some types of such pigmentation disorders, the skin, hair and eyes are involved in the pathological process, while in others - only the eyes. All forms of albinism cannot be treated, and symptoms remain localized throughout the patient's life.
The main symptoms of these diseases are the following:
- hypo- or depigmentation of the skin, hair and eyes;
- vulnerability of the skin to ultraviolet rays;
- photophobia;
- decreased visual acuity;
- nystagmus.
Tuberous sclerosis
This disease is inherited according to an autosomal dominant pattern and is accompanied by the formation of plaques and tumors on the skin and internal organs (including the brain). On the skin of such patients (usually in the buttocks and torso) there are light spots, the shape of which resembles confetti or leaves. They can be observed already at the time of birth or appear up to a year (or up to 2-3 years). With age, their number increases.
Already in infancy or childhood, white strands of hair, eyebrows or eyelashes appear. Next, the patient develops tumors: angiofibromas, fibrous plaques, periungual fibromas “shagreen skin”. When the brain is damaged, cortical tubera and subependymal nodes develop, and in the internal organs, renal cysts, renal and liver hematomas, retinal tumors and cardiac rhabdomyomas can be found. Tuberous sclerosis is accompanied by mental retardation and epilepsy.
Immune leucoderma
These pigmentation disorders are caused when the immune system, for unknown reasons, attacks an area of skin and destroys melanocytes.
Vitiligo
This disease can occur in people of any age and gender. Such patients develop milky white or light pink spots on the skin, which in most cases are localized on the hands, knees or face. They can increase in size and merge. The hair in the spot area becomes discolored. White spots do not cause any discomfort and do not peel off.
Halo nevus
These nevi are most often observed in children or adolescents and are pinkish or brown round spots that are slightly raised above the skin and surrounded by a border of white skin. Their sizes reach 4-5 mm, and the size of the depigmented rim can be 2-3 times larger than the formation itself. Most often, Halo nevi are located on the arms or torso, less often on the face. Similar formations can be observed in patients with vitiligo. The spots may disappear on their own and in most cases do not require treatment.
Post-inflammatory leucoderma
This pigmentation disorder can develop after skin rashes, which are observed in some inflammatory skin diseases (burns, psoriasis, etc.). The appearance of white spots is explained by the fact that less melanin accumulates in areas of the skin covered with crusts and scales, and more accumulates in the healthy tissues surrounding them.
Melasma
Depending on the causes of development, several types of melasma (melanoses) are distinguished.
Melasnderemia in diseases of internal organs
Severe chronic diseases can lead to the development of the following melasma:
- uremic melanosis - develops with;
- endocrine melanosis – develops with dysfunction of the pituitary gland, adrenal glands and other endocrine glands;
- hepatic melanosis – develops with severe liver pathologies (cirrhosis, liver failure, etc.);
- cachectic melanosis – develops in severe forms of tuberculosis.
Toxic reticular melanosis
This pathology develops with frequent contact with machine oil, resins, tar, coal, oil and lubricants. As a result of chronic poisoning, the following symptoms appear:
- redness of the face, forearms and neck, accompanied by mild itching or fever;
- the appearance of reticular hyperpigmentation of a red or bluish-slate color with clear boundaries;
- the intensity of pigmentation increases and they become diffuse;
- hyperkeratosis develops in the area of pigmentation, and areas of skin folding, telangiectasia and areas of peeling appear.
In addition to skin manifestations, patients complain of a disturbance in their general well-being: loss of appetite, weight loss, malaise, etc.
Dubreuil's precancerous melanosis
This hyperpigmentation is more common in women over 50 years of age. The patient develops the following symptoms:
- an irregularly shaped pigment spot with a diameter of 2-6 cm appears on the face, chest or hands;
- the spot is unevenly colored with areas of brown, gray, black and bluish color;
- the skin in the area of the spot is less elastic, and the skin pattern on it is rougher.
Becker's melanosis
This disease is more often observed in men 20-30 years old. A brown spot of irregular shape, 10-50 cm in size, appears on the patient’s body. More often it is located on the torso, less often in the face, neck or pelvis. Many patients experience significant hair growth in the area of the spot. The skin becomes rough, thickened and wrinkled.
Papillary pigmentary dystrophy of the skin (acanthosis nigricans)
This hyperpigmentation is accompanied by the appearance of brown, velvety spots in the armpits or other parts of the body. Acanthosis nigricans can accompany some cancers or be congenital and benign (with pituitary adenoma, Addison's disease, etc.).
Mastocytosis (urticaria pigmentosa)
This hyperpigmentation is accompanied by the appearance of multiple rounded papules and irregularly shaped spots of red or yellow-brown color. Their size reaches 3-8 mm. The spots may merge. The rash is sometimes accompanied by itching. When scratched or rubbed they become swollen. This hereditary disease is benign in most cases and first appears in early childhood. After a few years it may disappear spontaneously.
Coffee stain (or Nevus spilus)
With such hyperpigmentation, brown single or multiple spots with clear boundaries and uniform color appear on the skin. Their shade can vary from light to dark. The spots can be located on any part of the skin, but never appear on the mucous membranes. Nevus spilus is detected immediately after birth or in early childhood, and its size increases as the child grows.
Chloasma
Such hyperpigmentation is more common in women and is caused by hormonal imbalances or changes during pregnancy and menopause. They most often appear on the face as irregularly shaped yellowish-brown spots and may fade or disappear in the winter.
Lentigo
Such pigmentation disorders are observed in some hereditary syndromes. Limited small and flat hyperpigmented elements are formed on the skin.
Moynahan syndrome (LEOPARD)
This pigmentation disorder is observed in young people. It is accompanied by the rapid appearance of hundreds of lentigo spots on the skin of the face, torso and limbs.
Freckles
Such pigmentation disorders are more often observed in fair-haired people. They appear in childhood or adolescence and are irregularly shaped pigment spots that do not rise above the skin and are located symmetrically. The color of freckles can range from yellowish to brown, and the color intensifies after exposure to ultraviolet rays.
Poikiloderma
Such pigmentation disorders manifest themselves in the form of dystrophic changes in the skin, manifested by reticular brown hyperpigmentation, which alternates with areas of telangiectasia and skin atrophy. The disease can be congenital or acquired.
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
With this disorder of pigmentation, common lentigines appear on the lips, mucous membranes of the mouth and eyelids. Polyps appear in the intestinal lumen (usually the small intestine) and manifest as bleeding, diarrhea, intussusception, or obstruction. Over time, they can degenerate into cancerous tumors.
Recklinghausen's disease
With such pigmentation disorders, which are observed with neurophyromatosis, coffee spots and freckle-like elements of a brown tint appear in the axillary and groin areas. Their diameter can reach several millimeters or centimeters. The spots are present from birth or appear in the first year of life.
Blue-gray dispigmentation
Depending on the causes of development, there are several types of gray-blue dispigmentation:
- Caused by an increase in the number of melanocytes. Such pigmentation disorders include: nevus of Ota, nevus of Ito and Mongolian spot. Nevus of Ota is located on the face and is a patch of rich brown, violet-brown or blue-black color, which often extends to the periorbital area and extends to the temples, forehead, structures of the eye, nose and periorbital areas of the cheeks. Nevus is more often observed in women and appears in childhood or young age. More typical for Asians. Nevus of Ito differs from nevus of Ota only in location. It is localized in the neck and shoulders. The Mongolian spot is observed from birth and manifests itself in the form of gray-blue pigmentation of the skin in the sacrum and lumbar region. By 4-5 years, the spot disappears on its own. This pathology is more common among people of the Mongoloid and Negroid races.
- Non-melanin dyspigmentation caused by metabolic disorders. Such pigmentation disorders include ochronosis. This rare hereditary pathology is accompanied by deficiency and accumulation of homogentisic acid oxidase in the connective tissue. Such disorders lead to a change in skin color, and it acquires a dark brown or bluish-gray tint. Pigmentation disorders are most often observed in the area of the ears, nail plates of the fingers, tip of the nose, sclera and dorsum of the hands. The disease is accompanied by damage to the joints.
- Caused by thermal effects. Such pigmentation disorders include thermal erythema. The disease is usually triggered by frequent use of heating mattresses, mats and blankets. The affected areas of the skin acquire a gray-blue tint and subsequently scars and persistent areas of hyperpigmentation may appear on them. Patients experience a burning sensation. The lesion may be accompanied by erythema and desquamation.
- For fixed drug rashes. Such disorders are caused by taking medications and are accompanied by the appearance of red-brown or gray-blue spots that appear every time the drug is taken and are localized in the same place. Initially, the spot is swollen and inflamed. It peels off and may form a blister. After the inflammation is eliminated, an area of hyperpigmentation appears on the skin. Fixed drug rashes are most often caused by taking salicylates, barbiturates, tetracyclines, or phenolphthalein. After discontinuation of the drugs, dyspigmentation disappears.
- Conditioned by accumulation heavy metals. Such pigmentation disorders are caused by deposits of gold, silver, arsenic, mercury or bismuth in the layers of the skin. With the toxic effects of silver, mercury or bismuth, the skin, nails and mucous membranes turn gray-blue. Chrysoderma develops with the introduction of gold-containing drugs and is accompanied by brown coloring of the skin. Such dyspigmentation can be caused by taking the following drugs: chloroquine, clofazimine, amiadrone, busulfan, chlorpromazine, bleomycin, trifluoroperazine, zidovudine, minocycline and thioridazine.
The manifestations of pigmentation disorders are extremely varied and can be caused by various reasons. Only an experienced dermatologist can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment for such skin pathologies. To eliminate them, therapeutic and surgical techniques can be used, and some of them do not require treatment or go away on their own.
