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dark spots on skin reason
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #18067
73 days ago
119

dark spots on skin reason - #18067

Janvi

I am really confused about these dark spots on my skin. A month ago, I noticed a small dark spot just above my eyebrow and I thought it was just a pimple or something, you know? But then other spots started showing up on my cheeks and even on my arms! They don’t hurt or itch and they’re not red, just these weird brownish marks that kind of make me self-conscious. I did some research, and I keep coming across stuff about dark spots on skin reason like sun damage, age spots, and even hormonal changes, but it’s super overwhelming! I haven’t changed my skincare routine or anything, but I've been stressed with work lately and wondering if that could affect my skin too. I’m 32, so I didn’t think I’d be dealing with things like dark spots on skin reason yet! Is it something serious or just another sign of aging? Should I be concerned? I haven’t seen a doc yet because I thought they’d just dismiss it, but now I think I should! Are there specific tests I need to ask for to figure out the dark spots on skin reason? I’m just really unsure what to do next. Please help!

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Doctors' responses

Dark spots appearing on the skin can be concerning, especially when you notice them spreading from one area to others like your cheeks and arms. Several factors might contribute to this, and understanding these could help you determine your next steps. The most common reasons for dark spots include sun exposure, hormonal changes, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and age spots (also called solar lentigines). Since you’re noticing these spots without prior changes in your skincare routine, it’s essential to consider each possibility, especially if sun exposure might have increased lately. Stress, while having many effects on the body, is unlikely the primary cause for pigmentation changes of this nature, though it may play a role indirectly by affecting overall skin health.

At 32, while aging may not be the main player here, skin responds to accumulated sun exposure even if you weren’t expecting changes yet. It’s indeed a good idea to consult with a dermatologist who can evaluate these spots in person. They will assess the characteristics of the spots — their color, size, and distribution — and decide if any tests are necessary, such as a biopsy to rule out skin conditions like melasma or more serious issues. They may also recommend treatments ranging from topical lightening agents like hydroquinone, to procedures like chemical peels or laser treatment, depending on the underlying cause.

Self-diagnosing using internet resources can be overwhelming given the amount of information, much of which varies in reliability. For home care until you see a doctor, focus on sun protection; use a broad-spectrum SPF daily, and consider wearing a hat when out in direct sunlight to protect your face and arms. Over-the-counter products with ingredients such as vitamin C and retinoids can improve pigmentation, but their use should be aligned with professional advice, especially to avoid worsening pigmentation. If you observe any significant rapid changes, such as growth in size, changes in color, or the appearance of new symptoms, don’t delay seeing a healthcare provider, as these are red flags that may require immediate attention.

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