Age Spots & Pigmentation
Sun damage, ageing, pregnancy and acne are just some of the things that can predispose to discolouration of the skin. Darker skin typess are more prone to pigmentation after trauma such as acne and need to be treated with expert care.
What Are Age Spots
The most common colour is brown, but they can also be red or almost black. These usually occur in adults over 40, but younger people can also get them if they spend a lot of time in the sun. Age spots are completely harmless.
How Can I Prevent Age Spots?
You can prevent age spots from developing on your skin by following these tips:
- Wear SPF (Sun Protection Factor) sunscreen. Use a SPF of 30 or higher when you are outdoors, whether in the sun or not, as UVA light levels can cause damage throughout the year. Reapply every two hours if you are swimming or perspiring.
- Avoid the sun between 10am and 2pm. The sun’s rays are most intense during this time.
- Eating antioxidant food which can be found in fruit – especially intensely coloured fruit such as berries or blackcurrants – and vegetables.
What Causes Age Spots?
The most common causes as to why you develop age spots on your skin are:
- Skin aging
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Sun damage
- Tanning beds
Signs & Symptoms of Age Spots
You may have age spots if you detect a spot that has the following conditions:
- Range from light brown to black in color
- Have the same texture as the rest of your skin
- Range from freckle size to about half inch
- They can group together, making them more noticeable
- Are usually on sun-exposed areas of your skin
Frequently Asked Questions
They may appear and disappear, fading in the winter and darkening in the summer.
Although they are common and can appear anywhere, they are not linked to skin cancer.
In opposition to age spots, melanoma are: Asymmetrical, as one side is typically bigger. Borders look very irregular. Really dark. The darker the lesion, the greater your concern should be. Tend to be larger in diameter than a pencil eraser. If you are unsure, don’t hesitate to contact a dermatologist immediately.
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