black patches on skin - #17633
I am really worried about these black patches on my skin that just kinda appeared out of nowhere. A few weeks ago, I noticed a couple of these dark spots on my arms, and at first, I thought maybe it was just a bruise or something but then they didn’t go away. Now there’s like, five new black patches on my skin and they’re not itchy or anything, but it’s just weird. They kinda look like little splotches, and I’m trying not to freak out because I don't even know what they are. I've been spending a lot of time outside lately, like more than usual, and I've had some sun exposure but I thought I was being careful with sunscreen. Every time I look in the mirror, I keep thinking could this be something serious? My sister mentioned it could be something like hyperpigmentation, but I don’t know if that’s even a good guess. I mean, is there any way to tell if these black patches on skin are benign, or should I be concerned? Should I see a doctor soon? Any advice or similar experiences would be appreciated!
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Doctors' responses
Noticing new black patches on your skin can certainly raise concerns, and it’s good that you’re paying attention to these changes. While hyperpigmentation is a possibility, such as melasma or sunspots, it’s important to consider various potential causes. Since the patches appeared relatively quickly and you’re uncertain about their nature, it’s prudent to seek a professional evaluation. Conditions like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation might occur after irritation or minor skin injuries, but can also result from sun exposure. Given your increased sun exposure, even with sunscreen, UV-related changes could be a contributing factor. However, it’s crucial not to rule out other possibilities such as nevi (moles), seborrheic keratoses, or even more serious conditions like melanoma without professional assessment. Melanoma, although less common, presents certain red flags—changes in size, shape, color, or borders of a patch or if it’s irregular. Though your patches are not itchy, painless doesn’t necessarily connote benign. Since you’re seeing more patches appearing, that warrants further attention. While your sister mentioned hyperpigmentation, it’s best to consult a dermatologist or your general practitioner for a proper examination. They might conduct a dermatoscopy or even suggest a biopsy to rule out malignancy. Early detection is key in effectively managing any potential skin disorder, so arranging a visit soon is advisable. Avoid self-diagnosing or self-treating with topical medications until you have a clearer understanding. Also, continue protecting your skin from the sun using broad-spectrum sunscreen, covering exposed areas, and reducing peak sun exposure horarios. This care helps prevent further skin changes. Getting a professional opinion would offer clarity, peace of mind, and an appropriate course of action.
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