Deep insight into dark spots, skin problems. That can treat if understood correctly.
Although “dark spots” are not a disease, they are one of the skin problems that affect the confidence and quality of life of many people, especially in a tropical climate like Thailand where UV rays are a major factor that stimulates the production of excessive pigments under the skin. And as we age or get inflammation from acne, our skin becomes more susceptible to dark spots. Today, will take you to understand dark spots in a deep and comprehensive way, from types, causes, prevention methods and treatments, referring to information from medical research and the direct experience of dermatologists.
How many types of dark spots are there?
Dark spots can divide into 4 main types.
- Melasma is a common dark skin condition, especially in women aged 25–45. It is caused by an imbalance of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, along with UV stimulation. Which causes more melanin to be created in the dermis and epidermis. Melasma appears as brown or light gray patches on the cheekbones, forehead, or above the lip.
- Freckles and Lentigines
- Freckles (Ephelides) are genetic, usually appear in children or adolescents, and tend to fade in the winter.
- Lentigines or sun spots are dark เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา brown spots that appear with age and do not fade on their own.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is common in people with medium to dark skin tones and occurs after acne, wounds, allergies, or harsh treatments. Pigmentation is produce more frequently in areas of inflammation.
- Solar lentigines, also known as “age spots” or “liver spots,” cause by long-term exposure to UV rays, which causes the skin to produce more melanin. Especially in areas that frequently expose to the sun, such as the cheekbones, hands, and arms.
What causes dark spots?
The production of melanin in the skin is controll by the enzyme tyrosinase. Which converts the amino acid tyrosine into melanin. Factors that can cause this system to malfunction include:
- Sunlight (UV-A and UV-B) directly stimulates melanin production through the activation of Tyrosinase and α-MSH (Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone).
- Hormones, especially in pregnant women or those using birth control pills, where high levels of estrogen and progesterone stimulate melanocytes to work more.
- Skin inflammation (inflammation) from acne, rashes, or even from lasers or harsh skin scrubs, which stimulate the production of excessive melanin.
- Certain medications, such as phenytoin, minocycline, or some cancer medications, have the side effect of causing abnormal pigmentation.
- Genetics: People with dark skin or a family history of freckles or melasma are more likely to develop dark spots than normal.