dark spots on hands - #15555
I am really worried about these dark spots on my hands. They started appearing a couple of months ago, and at first, I thought it was just some sun damage because I do spend a lot of time outside gardening and playing with my kids, but now I’m not so sure. Some of my friends say they’re just age spots, but I’m only 35, and that kinda freaks me out. I’ve been using sunscreen religiously now, but the dark spots on my hands don’t seem to be fading, and honestly, they seem to be getting a bit darker in some places. I tried some over-the-counter creams that promised to lighten them, but nothing worked. Ugh, it's frustrating! I had blood work done to check for diabetes because I read that some conditions can cause skin changes, but everything was normal. By the way, I also have a family history of skin issues, which makes me nervous. Can dark spots on hands be anything serious? Should I be seeing a dermatologist, or do I need to be more patient? I just want to know if these dark spots mean something worse or if I should just chill out about them. Anyone else had this issue or know what I should do next?
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Doctors’ responses
Dark spots on the hands can indeed be related to several things, and your friend’s suggestion of age spots—or solar lentigines—isn’t entirely off the mark even for someone who’s 35, especially with significant sun exposure. These spots are typically harmless and are a result of prolonged UV exposure. They’re more common than one might think when people spend lots of time outdoors without protection. You’ve taken a good step with the sunscreen, and it’s important to continue doing so to prevent new spots from forming and to protect your skin from more damage. However, considering your family history of skin issues and the fact that these spots are new and changing, it might be worthwhile seeing a dermatologist to have them examined. They can provide a more definitive diagnosis and potentially rule out other causes like melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, certain rare skin conditions, such as lentigo maligna, need to be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions. As OTC creams haven’t worked for you, a dermatologist might suggest other treatments like prescription creams, laser therapy, or chemical peels which can be more effective for some individuals. It’s always better to err on the side of caution, especially if there’s any change in the appearance or if you notice new symptoms like itching, pain, or bleeding. While skin checks sometimes feel like an overreaction, they provide peace of mind and ensure any necessary action can be taken early. So, scheduling an appointment with a professional could be a good next step.
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