hyperpigmentation men - #20212
I am really worried about this dark spots that have started to show up on my face and neck. I’m a 35-year-old guy, and I never thought I’d be dealing with hyperpigmentation men at this age. I've always taken care of my skin pretty well, but like a few months ago, I noticed some patches just wouldn't go away, especially on my cheeks and forehead. I thought maybe it was from too much sun exposure while jogging outside, but it seems like they’re getting darker. A friend mentioned that hyperpigmentation men can be caused by different stuff like shaving irritation or hormonal changes. I did switch up my razor a couple of months ago and started to get some irritation — could that be it? I went to a dermatologist, and they gave me some creams, but I haven’t really noticed a huge difference. I keep reading about how hyperpigmentation men can often relate to underlying issues, but I feel like I'm missing something. Is there something I should try that works better? And should I change my skincare routine entirely? Any advice would be super helpful!
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Doctors' responses
It’s understandable to feel concerned about the sudden appearance of dark spots on your skin, especially when they’re persistent. Hyperpigmentation in men can indeed result from several factors, including excessive sun exposure, irritation from shaving, or hormonal shifts, though the latter is less common at your age. Since you mention you’ve switched razors and have experienced irritation, it’s possible that shaving-related irritation could be a contributing factor. The friction and potential razor burn might cause localized inflammation, which can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
First, ensure you’re minimizing further irritation. Consider switching to a razor with fewer blades, shave in the direction of hair growth, and make use of a good shave gel to reduce friction. After shaving, a soothing moisturizer or an aftershave balm without alcohol may calm any inflammation. Sunscreen is a must, especially if you’re outdoors frequently — a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher can really help prevent worsening as UV exposure can darken existing spots.
Regarding creams, if the ones prescribed by your dermatologist aren’t effective, revisit this with them. They may include hydroquinone, retinoids, or other agents like azelaic acid or kojic acid that target pigmentation. However, these treatments require consistent, long-term application beyond a few months for noticeable results.
Continue to avoid any harsh exfoliants or skin products that might further irritate or damage your skin. Also, pay attention to any other new skincare routines or products that might coincide with these changes. Lastly, if you are concerned about underlying systemic issues, it’s worth discussing this with your dermatologist for further evaluation or testing. They can ensure there are no other contributing factors, like nutritional deficiencies or less common dermal conditions. Adjustments to your skincare regimen and the safe introduction of certain treatments are feasible steps alongside medical advice, but not a full skincare overhaul unless it’s directly warranted.
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