A lot of information is circulating here and there regarding pigment spots. So much so that we no longer know where to turn when it comes to dissociating the truth from the false in this thorny problem that affects many people. We take stock.
First Of All, What Is A Pigment Spot?
Let’s start at the beginning: more commonly called “brown spots” because of their brownish color, pigment spots are due to excessive stimulation of melanocytes responsible for the synthesis of melanin. This phenomenon creates pigmentary irregularities in the epidermis, mainly on areas exposed to the sun, such as the hands, face or neck.
1 Pigment Spots Are Reserved For Those Who Expose Themselves To The Sun Without Sunscreen
Fake!
While it is true that prolonged exposure to the sun is the No. 1 cause of the appearance of pigment spots on the skin, it is not the only one to be singled out. A hormonal imbalance due, for example, to pregnancy or taking unsuitable contraception can also be the cause. You should know that whatever the cause, UV rays can aggravate an already existing problem when the skin is not adequately protected with an SPF.
2 Can Pigment Spots Be Caused By Acne?
TRUE!
It seems somewhat surprising, and yet… If the rumor goes around that the sun makes pimples disappear, in reality, it is one of the things to avoid, especially when the scar is still young. Indeed, when skin tissue is altered, melanin is produced in excessive quantities and can accumulate in one area. After the pimple heals, this excess melanin remains and leaves a stain on the skin. To avoid this, it’s simple: protect yourself with an index 50+ sun filter to be renewed regularly during the day and avoid exposing yourself between noon and 4pm, the times when the sun is at its peak.
3 Can Blue Light Accentuate The Appearance Of Pigment Spots?
TRUE!
With computers, tablets, smartphones and other high-tech equipment… blue lights are literally everywhere! If this overexposure deteriorates the ability to concentrate and sociability, studies are demonstrating its harmful effects on the skin. Blue light penetrates the epidermis even deeper than UV rays and causes oxidative stress, which damages skin cells.
Result: the skin appears more tired, and pigment spots similar to those obtained from the sun appear.
4 Brown Spots = First Signs Of Old Age?
True And False!
As we told you above, brown spots can be caused by factors that have nothing to do with skin aging. If the first reason for their appearance remains exposure to the sun, aging comes second. From the age of 40, the aging process can trigger an overproduction of melanin, which creates an irregularity in the epidermis. Senile lentigo first affects the hands and face before gradually spreading over the entire body.
5 Can Pigment Spots Be Reduced With Appropriate Treatment?
TRUE!
There are even several treatments adapted depending on the type of hyperpigmentation from which you suffer. If chemical peeling, laser or cryotherapy are solutions to consider, there are less expensive treatments that have proven their worth. Our favorite? The depigmenting treatment acts on melanogenesis and inhibits the transport of melanin to the upper layers of the skin. It is a real revolution to get rid of spots on the face and neck gradually.
In Short
Although pigment spots are common, they are not irreversible. Because their appearance does not lie in a single cause, it is essential to understand their origins in order to allow you to treat them better and mitigate them. If necessary, do not hesitate to consult a dermatologist.