Why dark spots on face? - #11959
I am really freaking out about these dark spots on my face. They just appeared out of nowhere, and I can't even pinpoint when it started. I remember going on vacation to a sunny beach last month, and I was super careful with sunscreen, but maybe I wasn't careful enough? At first, it was just one tiny spot on my cheek, but now there’s like three or four more. Why dark spots on face suddenly like this? I read online that they can be from sun exposure or even hormonal changes, which totally freaks me out. I’ve been stressing out a lot about work lately, and I’m just wondering if that could be a factor too. Like, could anxiety even contribute to why dark spots on face appear? I went to a dermatologist last week, and they suggested some creams, but I feel like I need to know more about what these dark spots really are before I start applying anything. Why dark spots on face? Is it something serious? Will they go away on their own, or do I have to worry about them getting worse? Thanks for any advice, I'm just feeling kinda lost here!
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Doctors’ responses
Dark spots on the face, often referred to as hyperpigmentation or melasma, can be a common reaction to various triggers. One of the primary causes of these spots is indeed sun exposure, even if sunscreen was used. Sunscreen can reduce risk but not entirely prevent sun-induced pigmentation. Prolonged UV exposure without reapplying sunscreen every couple of hours, especially at beaches where sun reflection is high, might have contributed to the situation. Another potential cause could be hormonal changes, which can make skin more sensitive to pigment changes and that’s why spots may develop. Pregnant women or those using hormonal contraceptives sometimes notice these changes because of hormonal fluctuations.
Stress, while it may not directly cause dark spots, can influence behaviors that might exacerbate them. Stress might lead to insufficient sleep or reduced effectiveness in self-care routines, including skincare. Additionally, skin inflammation or certain medications can cause or worsen hyperpigmentation. Anxiety alone doesn’t directly cause dark spots, but its effects on your overall health may play a role. In terms of treatment, topical creams containing ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or ascorbic acid can help lighten these spots, but it’s crucial to stick to dermatological guidance to avoid skin irritation or adverse reactions.
These spots, unfortunately, may not disappear on their own and while they aren’t typically a sign of something serious, they can become more pronounced if not properly managed. It’s wise to follow up with the dermatologist’s recommendation, maintain a diligent skincare routine, and continue protecting your skin from further UV exposure by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, reapplying every two hours when outdoors. If the spots change rapidly or significantly, consult your dermatologist promptly to rule out other potential concerns.
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