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black dark spots on skin
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #15758
45 days ago
64

black dark spots on skin - #15758

Vedant

I am really worried about these black dark spots on skin I’ve been noticing. Like, a few months ago I realized there were some tiny black dark spots on skin around my arms, and they’ve kinda been getting larger and multiplying. At first, I thought meh, maybe it’s nothing, but now it looks like I have some weird freckles or something. They don’t itch or hurt but they’re freaking me out because I don’t remember getting any sunburns or anything that could cause this! My friend mentioned something about, you know, skin issues from aging but I’m only 33! I went to a derm and they said it could be a type of benign mole, but said I should keep an eye on them. Now, they’re saying the black dark spots on skin could be hyperpigmentation or something like that. I’ve tried some creams but they don’t seem to work, and honestly, I don't know if I'm just being paranoid or if I really should be taking them more seriously. Has anyone else dealt with black dark spots on skin that turned out to be nothing? Should I get a second opinion? I’m just... like, confused and a little anxious about all this.

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Doctors’ responses

Black or dark spots on the skin can have various causes and while they are often benign, it’s wise to be aware of any changes. What you’re describing could potentially be what are known as lentigines or age spots, which can appear due to sun exposure over time and not necessarily from recent sunburns. Hyperpigmentation, often caused by several factors including hormonal changes or skin injury, could also be a culprit. Moles are another possibility, but if they’ve been increasing in size or number, it’s crucial to keep monitoring them. It’s good that you’ve seen a dermatologist already. If the spots are new or evolving, and your current creams have not shown effective results, getting a second opinion can provide peace of mind and further exploration into treatments. Changes in the appearance of skin spots should be evaluated based on the ABCDEs—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving shape or size. If you notice any of these signs, or if a spot appears drastically different from others, contacting a specialist promptly is important to rule out melanoma, which is a rare but serious type of skin cancer. Although at 33, developing skin cancer is less common, it is not impossible, so vigilance helps. If these spots are purely cosmetic, dermatologists can often offer topical treatments, laser therapy, or other cosmetic procedures to reduce their appearance, but always ensure their safety and appropriateness. Evaluating your broader health habits, like sun protection, is also beneficial. Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen can help prevent further development of dark spots. A healthy diet and hydration support skin health as well. If you’re unsure or feel uneasy, advocating for your health is important—seek out medical advice when it concerns persistent worries.

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