Hyperpigmentation most often occurs on the face, arms and hands. The common causes of hyperpigmentation are sun exposure, hormonal changes, genetics, acne and botched skin treatments.
Here at Skin Sense GP Clinic in Chelmsford, Essex (just outside of London), we offer various treatments to reduce signs of pigmentation.
Types of Hyperpigmentation
Age spots
Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are flat, brown or black pigmented patches that appear on the skin due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
Sun spots
Sunspots, also known as solar lentigines or age spots, are small, darkened areas of skin that develop due to prolonged sun exposure. They typically appear as flat, brown, or grayish spots on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, and shoulders. Sunspots are caused by the overproduction of melanin in response to UV radiation and are often associated with aging. While harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern, and preventive measures like sunscreen and protective clothing can help reduce their occurrence.
Pregnancy marks
"Pregnancy marks," commonly referred to as stretch marks or striae gravidarum, are narrow streaks or lines that can appear on the skin during pregnancy.
Liver spots
Liver spots, also known as age spots or solar lentigines, are flat, brown or black blemishes that develop on the skin, typically due to prolonged sun exposure. They are most common in older individuals and often appear on areas exposed to the sun, such as the hands, face, and arms.
Freckles
Freckles are small, flat, and pigmented spots that appear on the skin, often in response to sun exposure. They are usually light to dark brown and can vary in size, occurring predominantly on the face, arms, and shoulders.
Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or gray-brown patches on the face, often triggered or exacerbated by sun exposure and hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or birth control use. It typically appears on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip and is more common in women.