Pigment spots, similar to birthmarks, are caused by increased melanin production in certain areas of the skin. Although the spots themselves are not dangerous, they are often considered visually disturbing. In such cases, the pigment spots can be removed by a dermatologist. He has various methods at his disposal with laser, peeling and bleaching cream. Read more about the causes as well as the various treatment options for pigment spots here.
Increased production of melanin
For very few people, the skin is flawlessly beautiful. Smaller or larger pigmentary disorders often appear – for example freckles or age spots. The spots are usually brownish or reddish. Unlike birthmarks, pigment spots are usually not palpable. The spots are caused by an increased production of the skin pigment melanin. This is produced by certain skin cells – the so-called melanocytes. Normally, these cells protect us from UV radiation and provide the tan of the skin in summer. If some areas form particularly much melanin, pigment spots appear on the skin.
Causes of pigment spots
Why increased melanin is produced in certain areas of the body can have various causes. In addition to predisposition and too much harmful UV radiation, hormonal changes in particular play a role. Such changes can occur in women, for example, during pregnancy or menopause, but also as a result of taking the pill. In some cases, the pigment spots then recede when a hormonal balance is restored. Certain diseases can also lead to pigment disorders. Among others, the following are possible causes:
- Skin diseases such as acne or psoriasis.
- Infectious diseases such as herpes zoster
- Tumors
- Celiac disease
- Metabolic disorders
- Deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12
In addition, drugs that increase the skin’s sensitivity to light can also cause pigmentation disorders. These drugs include antibiotics, some chemotherapeutic agents and products containing St. John’s wort. Important: Always have skin changes that seem worrisome checked by a dermatologist. After all, in some cases, skin cancer may be behind such a change.
White spots on the skin
While many pigment disorders result in reddish or brownish spots on the skin due to an increased concentration of melanin, there are also disorders in which too little melanin is produced. In such a case, white patches appear predominantly on the hands and face. This phenomenon is called white spot disease (vitiligo). Why the white spots appear on the skin has not yet been definitively clarified. It is assumed that there is a genetic predisposition in those affected. Vitiligo is not curable, but the symptoms can be alleviated by irradiation with UV light.
Treating pigment spots with laser
Harmless pigment spots do not actually require treatment in themselves. However, if they are found to be cosmetically disturbing, the spots can be removed. The best way to remove minor pigmentary disorders is with laser treatment. The laser destroys the pigment accumulations, which are then removed by immune cells. As a result, the dark spots on the skin disappear.
Removing pigment spots: other methods
In addition to laser treatment, there are other ways to remove pigment spots. For example, the spots can be separated with a scalpel, iced with nitrogen or treated with an acid peel. To avoid scars and unsightly skin spots, you should always leave the treatment to an experienced dermatologist. Since the treated skin area is particularly sensitive after the spot is removed, it must be carefully protected from the sun.
Pigment spots can come back
Even if a pigment spot has been removed once, it may reappear after some time or new spots may form in other areas. This is especially the case if the skin has been exposed to increased UV radiation for years. Indeed, once melanocytes are particularly active, their activity level is difficult to lower again.
Removing stains with creams
Pigment spots can also be removed with the help of special bleaching creams.Such creams are particularly effective for light discolorations. Some products are available over the counter, others only on prescription. These are mostly creams containing higher doses of the active ingredient hydroquinone. Since the active ingredient is suspected of being mildly carcinogenic, it should be used for a maximum period of three months.
Tips for the use of bleaching creams
Bleaching creams should always be applied only selectively to the affected areas of the skin. They are usually applied in the morning and evening. In the morning, you should still apply a generous amount of sunscreen afterwards, as the bleaching cream makes the skin more sensitive to light. In the case of very light spots, treatment success can be seen after just four weeks, but it usually takes at least two months for the spots to fade. Bleaching agents should only be used after consultation with your doctor, because the creams are not completely harmless: their use can sometimes cause severe skin irritations. If you notice such a reaction in yourself, you should stop the treatment and consult a doctor.
Prevent pigmentation spots
Pigmentation disorders cannot be prevented in every case, as they are often genetic or hormonal. Women who suffer from pigmentation disorder can think about switching to a non-hormonal contraceptive method. In addition, pigment spots can also be prevented by avoiding a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12. It is also important to ensure that you use adequate sun protection. UV radiation probably also plays a role in the development of pigment spots. Therefore, pay attention to sufficient protection not only on vacation, but also during everyday outdoor activities. In this way, you will not only prevent the development of unsightly skin spots, but you can also prevent skin cancer.
