Spots on the face

Sunspots (lentigines)

Sunspots are caused by exposure to UV radiation. They are small, dark spots that appear on areas of the skin that are most exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, décolleté, and shoulders. These spots are usually brown in color and can become darker with continued sun exposure.

Melasma (mask of pregnancy)

Melasma manifests itself as larger dark spots on the face, most often on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and nose. Melasma is often associated with hormonal changes (pregnancy, contraception, hormone therapy) and can be aggravated by sun exposure.

Hypopigmentation

These are lighter patches that form when the skin doesn't produce enough melanin. They can appear after inflammation, injury, or illness. For example, acne scars or dermatitis can cause hypopigmented patches on the face.

Postural hyperpigmentation (PIH)

This type of spot occurs after inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, eczema, or burns. It leaves dark spots on the skin that are the result of excessive melanin accumulation at the site of injury or irritation.

Freckles

Freckles are small, reddish-brown or brown spots that usually appear on the face of people with lighter skin. Freckles are caused by a genetic predisposition, and are usually more visible in the summer due to sun exposure.

Age spots (senile lentigines)

These spots, also known as "age spots," appear in older people due to accumulated UV exposure over a lifetime. They are usually larger, darker, and appear on the face, arms, hands, and other exposed areas of the body.

Pink or red spots

Sometimes the skin can develop pink, red, or purple spots that can be caused by capillary damage or inflammation, such as rosacea or couperose, which leads to dilated blood vessels.

Exposure to sunlight

Sunlight causes the production of melanin, which can lead to the formation of dark spots or freckles on the skin.

Hormonal changes

Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy can cause melasma and other changes in skin pigmentation.

Inflammation or scars

After the skin goes through inflammation (acne, eczema, dermatitis), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can occur, where the skin leaves dark spots at the site of the injury.

Genetics

Freckles, sunspots, and other blemishes can be hereditary, so if parents had blemishes on their faces, their children will likely have them too.

Aging

As we age, the skin becomes more susceptible to developing age spots due to accumulated sun exposure throughout life.

Sun protection

The most important preventive measure for preventing the appearance of spots is the regular use of sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30). Using a hat, sunglasses and avoiding direct sunlight also help protect the skin.

Topical treatments

Creams containing ingredients such as hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C, azelaic acid, and niacinamide can help reduce the visibility of dark spots.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels can remove the top layers of skin and lighten dark spots, making the skin more even.

Laser treatments

Lasers for depigmentation can help reduce blemishes and improve the appearance of skin.

Natural treatments

Some natural ingredients like aloe vera gel, lemon juice, and honey are often used to lighten skin, but their effectiveness is not always proven.