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hyperpigmentation on back
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #18111
73 days ago
159

hyperpigmentation on back - #18111

Rhea

I am really worried about this patch of skin on my back that’s been getting darker, like, out of nowhere. I first noticed the hyperpigmentation on back a few months ago, just a small spot, but now it’s spreading! I thought maybe I had just been out in the sun too much or something, but I always use sunscreen. I’m freaking out because my sister said hyperpigmentation on back can be a sign of something more serious, which got me all anxious. I went to the derm last week and they just said it’s likely due to hormonal changes or some sort of irritation. But I mean, why is it only on my back? I don’t have any other spots like this anywhere else! I did mention I had some mild acne in that area like ages ago, but isn’t that just normal? And honestly, what’s really weird is that I don’t remember doing anything different in my skincare routine that could cause this hyperpigmentation on back thing. Are any of you guys familiar with this? Should I be looking into more serious underlying issues, or is it just a cosmetic concern? I really don’t wanna end up with this on my back for life!

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Doctors' responses

Hyperpigmentation on the back can, indeed, be concerning, but there are often several benign causes for these changes. Since you’ve mentioned previous mild acne in the area, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation could be a likely culprit. This often occurs when the skin darkens as a result of healing, which aligns with your past acne concerns. Your dermatologist may have considered hormonal factors or irritation, which can also lead to localized skin changes. However, it’s crucial to consider a few things: persistent sun exposure, even with sunscreen, can still contribute to hyperpigmentation if not completely blocked or if not applied consistently. Make sure you’re using a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapplying it every two hours. If sun exposure is ruled out and the pigmentation continues to spread or change rapidly, seeking a second opinion or following up with your dermatologist could be beneficial for peace of mind and further evaluation. They might consider a biopsy if there’s any uncertainity. Since it’s only on your back, and you haven’t changed your skincare routine, it might simply be the result of past irritation or an ongoing skin reaction. Systemic causes are less likely in localized hyperpigmentation but can include hormonal imbalances or certain medications. It’s unlikely something serious is underlying given the input from your dermatologist, but monitoring the area for any rapid changes in size, shape, or color is important. Should any of these occur, revisit the dermatologist. Meanwhile, avoid picking or scrubbing the area too harshly, as this can exacerbate pigment changes.

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