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Understanding Dark Spots:

Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation or age spots, is a common skin problem that can increasingly grow as age progresses. Dark spots can appear overnight, and can be seen as an indicator of age. In this medical condition, Melanin, which is the chemical that gives the human skin its colour, is excessively produced in one area, leading to freckles, liver spots and other patches of darker skin. Let’s look at this condition in a little more detail:

Causes of Dark Spots:

There are many different types of dark spots, which are caused by a number of factors. The three most common types of hyperpigmentation include:

1. Lentigines: These dark spots are caused by over-exposure to UV rays from the sun. These spots can appear in a scattered pattern, and are normally seen in people over the age of 60, although many much younger men and women may have sun-related dark spots as well.

2. Melasma: This type of dark sport is caused by hormonal fluctuations. Women, in particular, may observe darker splotches appearing on their skin during the times their hormones are in flux, especially during events like pregnancy or menopause. Melasma can also be caused by birth control pills, hormone therapy treatment or as a result of thyroid dysfunction.

3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): These dark spots can occur due to trauma of the skin, and can be caused by burns, acne as well as certain skin care treatments that are hard on the skin.

Treatment of Dark Spots:

It should be noted that dark spots aren’t inherently dangerous, and do not cause any health problems. However, some people may wish to remove these for cosmetic reasons. In such cases, dark spot treatment procedures can include:

1. Prescription Medication: Your doctor may prescribe the use of bleaching creams to gradually help dark spots fade away. These cream usually contain hydroquinone, or retinoids like Tretinoin. This treatment usually takes months to show noticeable effect.

2. Medical Procedures: there are a number of medical procedures that can treat dark spots. These can include:

   • Laser treatment to destroy cells that are producing melanin
   • Chemical peels to burn the outer layer of the skin, allowing new layers to grow in its place
   • Dermabrasion, which will help to sand off the outer layer of the skin, thus allowing new skin to grow in its place.
   • Cryosurgery, which will help to freeze age spots with liquid nitrogen.

3. You can also make use of over-the-counter creams that may help to remove dark spots.

The Apollo Clinic Experience:

At Apollo Clinic, our team of dermatologists are here to help you get rid of dark spots that can adversely affect your appearance. With the latest treatment protocols, our experts are well-versed with the different kinds of dark spots, and the relevant treatment procedures to help arrest and remove the same.

If you feel like your dark spots are adversely affecting your appearance, schedule an appointment with one of our experts today.