Whatever your skin type, it contains a pigment called melanin, which is produced by melanocytes. Some factors cause hyperpigmentation on the skin, in which the skin produces excess melanin, which is deposited as “dark spots.”
What is the root cause of dark spots?
There are several causes for dark spots. Sun damage, hormonal changes, and inflammation are common causes of dark spots.
Sun damage: After being exposed to UV rays, the skin produces melanin, which acts as a natural sunscreen and causes skin spots.
Hormonal changes: when hormonal levels go up and down, it results in hyperpigmentation and dark spots, especially during pregnancy.
Inflammation or irritation: A dark spot on the skin appeared during the healing phase after irritation or inflammation of the skin.
Can stress cause dark spots on the face?
When we are under stress, adrenocorticotropic hormones released from the pituitary gland trigger melanogenesis, the process of pigment production. Hence, stress causes hyperpigmentation.
Does vitamin deficiency cause dark spots?
A deficiency of vitamin B12 causes hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
The solution for vitamin B12 deficiency-induced hyperpigmentation is to include foods like milk, cheese, green vegetables, and curd in your diet.
Can a diet trigger dark spots?
Diets that contain sugary foods and drinks cause skin inflammation and dark spots. Spicy and fried foods are also inflammatory, which leads to dark spots.
Soy contains phytoestrogen, which can mimic our oestrogen levels, disrupting our body’s own hormone levels and causing hyperpigmentation.
When should you be worried about skin spots?
Skin pigmentation, or dark spots, can be monitored for their change and growth. A regular skin exam is necessary to detect any changes in the pigmented skin.
There are plenty of home remedies for spot treatment, but if you feel any serious concern or change, you should consult a dermatologist.
What is good for dark spots?
Dark spots are harmless, but they should be reduced, and having clear skin is everyone’s dream.
There are several ways, from natural remedies to topical OTC (over the counter) products, to help fade dark spots.
Natural remedies to fade dark spots include:
- Turmeric
- Papaya
- Tomato
- Lemon
- Aloe Vera
OTC products containing active ingredients for dark spots include:
- Vitamin C
- Hydroquinone
- Kojic acid
- Retinoid
- Alpha-hydroxy acids
There are varieties of treatments to get rid of stubborn dark spots; however, before going through any treatment, do a patch test and check for any reactions on your skin.
Here is the causes of Dark spots on skin by a dermatologist.
FAQ’S
Can a diet help treat dark spots?
A diet rich in antioxidants can help in the treatment of dark spots or hyperpigmentation.
Yes, citrus fruits such as lemon and orange, beta-carotene-rich foods such as sweet potato, carrot, and pumpkin, and sea foods high in zinc, copper, and magnesium are beneficial in the treatment of dark spots.
Why are dark spots getting worse?
Dark spots got worse after exposure to UV rays. Melanocytes under the skin produce more melanin to protect against UV rays, which darken spots.
Another factor that aggravates spots is any physical trauma, such as any treatment on the skin.
Dark spots can get worse in dry weather, so moisturising is one solution to preventing them.
Do dark spots go away?
Generally, dark spots will fade away on their own, but it takes months to years, so keep your patience.
Effective treatment will speed up the fading of spots on the skin.
Conclusion
Hyperpigmentation, or dark spots, is one of the skin conditions where skin becomes darker due to an increase in melanin, which can fade away on its own or slowly with any treatment or remedy.
Save this pin to Pinterest for easy access next time!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through the product links provided in this blog post. This implies when you choose to use the link, I might receive a small commission—at no extra cost to you.
Disclaimer: The only goal of all the content on greenspacelife.com is informational. It is not meant to replace any medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment.
Also Read:
Reference:
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/112515-hyperpigmentation-as-a-primary-symptom-of-vitamin-b12-deficiency-a-case-report
- Variety of options available to treat pigmentation problems. (2013).
https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/variety-of-options-available-to-treat-pigmentation-problems - What can get rid of age spots? (n.d.).
https://www.aad.org/public/skin-hair-nails/anti-aging-skin-care/age-spots