lentigines on face - #15829
I am a bit worried about these lentigines on my face that seem to be popping up more and more often. Like, just last month, I noticed one on my cheek that looked harmless but then it started to darken, and now there are a couple more around my forehead. I don't remember them being there before. They kinda look like freckles but... not really? My friends mentioned they could be lentigines on my face, which totally freaked me out! I've been trying to figure out if these lentigines on my face are something I should be concerned about. I mean, they don’t itch or hurt or anything, but sometimes I feel like they make me look older than I am. I heard that excessive sun exposure can lead to lentigines on face, and I do spend a lot of time outside, especially during the summer. Just last week a family member suggested I see a dermatologist, but I'm not sure if it’s worth it, yknow? Like, are lentigines on face common? Could they be a sign of something worse? I just really wanna know what my options are here, like do I need any special creams or treatments? Thanks for any thoughts!
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Doctors’ responses
Lentigines, commonly referred to as age spots or liver spots, are indeed quite common and often develop due to long-term sun exposure, particularly on areas frequently exposed like the face. They tend to occur as we age and are generally harmless, but they can certainly be of cosmetic concern for many. It’s reassuring that they don’t itch or cause pain, which often aligns with benign lentigines. However, if you’re seeing changes in size, color, or number quite rapidly, this can sometimes warrant a closer examination by a dermatologist, especially to differentiate them from other lesions like moles or early signs of skin cancer such as melanoma. It’s always better to err on the side of caution with skin changes. Your concern about sun exposure is valid — UV radiation is a primary risk factor for developing new lentigines or darkening them further. To prevent further development, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is highly recommended. Look for one with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it every two hours when you’re outside. In terms of treatments, while over-the-counter brightening creams containing ingredients like hydroquinone, retinols, or vitamin C may help lighten existing spots, these should be used with caution and potentially under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as they can be irritating for some skin types. Dermatologists also offer treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy for more immediate results, but these options come with costs and might not always be covered by insurance. Ultimately, whether or not you find it worthwhile to see a dermatologist depends on the level of concern you have for the appearance of these lentigines and whether you’d like professional confirmation they’re benign. They can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss the suitability of various treatment options based on your skin type and personal preferences.
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