What are pigmentation spots?
Pigmentation spots develop when the skin produces more pigment than normal in certain places. The spots can range from light brown to dark brown and vary in size. They are usually the result of sun exposure, skin ageing or hormonal influences.
There are different types of pigmentation spots:
- Age spots, also called sun spots, often develop in places that are exposed to the sun a lot.
- Melasma is an irregular discolouration, often on the face, that mainly occurs in women.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation develops after inflammation or damage to the skin, for example after acne.
How do pigmentation spots develop?
The production of melanin is a natural protective mechanism of the skin. With excessive exposure to sunlight or with hormonal fluctuations, this process can become disrupted. Pigment is then distributed unevenly, which causes dark spots.
The main causes are:
- Sunlight, especially prolonged and unprotected exposure
- Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or due to contraception
- Skin ageing, which changes the balance in pigment production
- Scars or inflammation, which can cause pigment build-up
What can you do about pigmentation spots?
There are several ways to reduce or prevent pigmentation spots. Which approach works best depends on the type of pigment, how deep it is in the skin and your skin type.
1. Protect your skin from the sun
The most important step of all is using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. UV radiation is present even on cloudy days or in winter. By consistently protecting your skin, you prevent pigmentation spots from getting darker or new spots from developing.
2. Use skincare with active ingredients
There are various creams and serums that can help fade pigmentation spots. These can be products with, for example:
- Vitamin C
- Retinol
- Niacinamide
- Azelaic acid
- Liquorice root extract
These ingredients inhibit the production of pigment or help the skin renew itself. Do not expect overnight results. Consistent use is needed to see results.
3. Medical creams (prescription only)
For stubborn pigmentation spots, a doctor can prescribe a stronger cream, for example with hydroquinone or tretinoin. These products can be effective, but are often used only temporarily under a doctor's supervision because of the risk of skin irritation.
4. Treatments outside the clinic
Some pigmentation spots can be treated with techniques such as laser therapy, IPL or chemical peels. Kliniek het Bolwerk does not offer these specific treatments, but we can advise you if you are considering treating pigmentation spots in this way. We work together with a laser and skin centre nearby.
It is important that you always get proper information from a specialist, because not every treatment is suitable for every skin type or every type of pigment.
What can you do yourself in daily life?
Besides treatments, you can also gain a lot with small changes to your habits:
- Expose your skin to bright sunlight as little as possible
- Use a product with antioxidants every day
- Touch your skin as little as possible when you have inflammation or spots
- Pay attention to hormonal influences when new spots develop
When should you contact a doctor?
Pigmentation spots are usually harmless. Does a spot suddenly change colour, shape or texture, or does it start to itch or bleed? Then it is sensible to consult a doctor. In rare cases there may be another skin condition that requires medical attention.
Want to know what we do in this area? Read about Removal of skin imperfections or having a mole removed.
