Black marks on cheeks - #12141
I am really worried about these black marks on cheeks that appeared outta nowhere. Like, 2 weeks ago I noticed a small dark spot, thought maybe it was a pimple or something, but it’s turned into this weird patch, and now there are a couple more around that area. It started just being annoying, but now I freak out every time I look in the mirror! I’ve tried all the usual stuff like scrubs and lotions, but they don’t seem to help at all. I mean, what the heck could cause these black marks on cheeks? I'm not really into heavy makeup, so I don't think it's a reaction to that, and my skin was never really sensitive or anything. I’ve been stressed with work lately, but honestly, don’t know if that could be linked? I thought maybe sun exposure, but I always wear sunscreen! Has anyone else experienced these black marks on cheeks? Like, what can I even do? A friend mentioned it could be a sign of something more serious, which makes me kinda paranoid. Should I see a dermatologist, or is there something simple I can try at home? Just feeling a bit lost here.
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Doctors’ responses
Black marks on your cheeks can be concerning, and while there are several potential causes, it’s crucial to investigate further to understand what’s happening. One common cause of dark spots or patches on the skin is hyperpigmentation, often triggered by factors like sun exposure, hormonal changes, or even inflammation following acne or injury. Even if you’re diligent with sun protection, cumulative exposure over time could contribute. Stress doesn’t directly cause hyperpigmentation, but it might exacerbate certain skin conditions like melasma, which is hormonally driven, potentially leading to dark patches. If these marks are new and changing, seeing a dermatologist is a wise step. They can evaluate them properly to rule out any serious conditions, like melanoma or other skin cancers, which are always less common but important to differentiate from benign causes. At home, avoid scrubs that might irritate the skin and focus on gentle, hypoallergenic skincare products. Ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C can help lighten hyperpigmented areas but work gradually. For now, continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, aim for an SPF of 30 or more, and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors. Avoid any irritation by picking or rubbing the affected areas, as this could worsen the pigmentation. A professional assessment will clarify the diagnosis and offer targeted treatment options like topical retinoids, professional peels, or laser therapy if needed. Keep in mind any new or rapidly changing skin lesions should be checked out sooner to ensure it’s nothing serious.
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