Dark Patches on Skin: Causes and Treatment Options

Our skin is a the largest organ in our body. It acts as a protective barrier, but it’s not immune to various imperfections. One such concern that affects many individuals is the appearance of dark patches on the skin. These patches can be a source of self-consciousness and may indicate an underlying issue. In this blog post, we’ll explore some common causes of dark patches on the skin and shed light on potential remedies.

Skin Hyperpigmentation:

Hyperpigmentation is a leading cause of dark patches on the skin. It occurs when the skin produces excessive melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Hyperpigmentation can result from various factors, including:

a) Sun Exposure: Overexposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun triggers the production of melanin, leading to dark spots known as sunspots or solar lentigines.

b) Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This occurs as a response to inflammation or injury to the skin, such as acne, burns, or cuts. The affected area may darken temporarily or persistently due to increased melanin production.

c) Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy (melasma or “pregnancy mask”) or due to hormonal therapies can stimulate melanin production, resulting in dark patches on the skin.

Melasma:

Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by dark patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. While its exact cause remains unclear, factors like hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetic predisposition are believed to contribute to its development. Melasma is more prevalent in women, particularly during pregnancy or while using hormonal contraceptives.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):

As mentioned earlier, PIH occurs when the skin responds to inflammation or injury. Conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, or even aggressive skin treatments like chemical peels can trigger PIH. The affected areas may appear darker than the surrounding skin, but with time and proper care, the dark patches often fade.

Age Spots:

Commonly known as liver spots or solar lentigines, age spots are flat, tan, or brown patches that typically appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, hands, and shoulders. They are caused by years of UV exposure, leading to the accumulation of melanin in certain areas of the skin.

Medications and Chemicals:

Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, antimalarials, and anti-seizure drugs, may cause drug-induced pigmentation, leading to dark patches on the skin. Similarly, exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in hair dyes or perfumes, can trigger skin discoloration in susceptible individuals.

Remedies and Prevention:

While it’s essential to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, here are a few general tips for managing dark patches on the skin:

1. Sun Protection: Shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial. Wear sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, and use protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when exposed to the sun.
2. Topical Treatments: Depending on the cause of the dark patches, dermatologists may recommend topical treatments such as hydroquinone, retinoids, azelaic acid, kojic acid, or corticosteroids. These ingredients can help lighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation.
3. Chemical Peels: For more severe cases, dermatologists may perform chemical peels to remove the top layer of skin, promoting the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin.
4. Laser Therapy: In certain instances, laser treatments can be very effective at treating the skin that has darkened. This is particularly effective for sun spots and some inflammatory pigmentation.

If you’re looking for a successful treatment plan for dark patches in London, we can help. With years of experience and the right technology to treat your pigmentation we know how to clear your skin – for good. If you’re to looking for an appointment but are considering treatment, we would urge you to always seek a dermatologist’s advice before embarking on treatment – particularly in cases of melasma, to ensure best results. If you would like to speak with one of our doctors, give us a call on 02039411815 or contact us here. 

Keep out the sun if you wish to limit further pigmentation and as always, SPF is your friend.

Good skin days, always

Dr Cherry & Helen

Co-founders

No. 23 Skin

02039411815