Skin patches: why do they appear and what can they mean?

 

Skin patches: why do they appear and what can they mean?

Skin blemishes can have multiple causes, but not all of these changes are worth worrying about. Most dermatological spots are caused by excessive exposure to sunlight or certain types of fungi and bacteria.

In this context, the purpose of the content below is to explain the main characteristics of the spots and the best ways to avoid them to maintain health and well-being. See, then, when skin changes really indicate the need to see a dermatologist clarify doubts. Good reading!

What are spots on the skin? 

They are marks or signs that usually appear in the regions of the body that are more exposed. Generally, the spots on the skin are more noticeable in areas such as the face, neck, shoulders, back, and back of the hands. The types and formats vary a lot: the spots can be light, dark, or rounded, in the form of small spots.

When spots appear on the skin, the ideal is to consult with a dermatologist, as only he will be able to analyze its characteristics and give a precise diagnostic definition. Stains do not always indicate the presence of disease, but most of them are uncomfortable for aesthetic reasons.

Why do spots appear on the skin?

The spots on the skin can appear for different causes. The best known are associated with sun exposure, the use of medications, hormonal imbalances, and even emotional instability. Most dermatological changes result from exposure to the sun without proper protection. In this case, the spots appear due to the greater release of melanin, a dark pigment that gives color to the skin.

How to avoid these spots?

There are several ways to prevent skin blemishes. However, this varies depending on the type of stain. Please note the below.

Sunspots

They appear as part of the skin's natural defense, through cumulative exposure to the effects of the sun's ultraviolet rays. Solar radiation causes an increase in the activity of melanocytes, cells that produce melanin, which leads to the appearance of spots. The best prevention is the use of sunscreen SPF when in contact with the sun.

Melasma 

Although they appear in anyone, melasma is more common in pregnant women. This disease is characterized by hyperpigmentation of the skin caused by the heat of the sun or the action of melanin. Again, the best way to avoid staining your skin is to use sunscreen when you're in the sun.

Red spots

Known as Rosacea, this type of stain can signal several conditions, from allergic processes to autoimmune diseases. The sun - or just the heat - causes local vasodilation that influences the appearance of these changes, which also suggests precautions such as photoprotection with sunscreen. 

Phytophotodermatitis

Phytophotodermatitis is a type of stain that appears as a consequence of exposure of the skin to some citrus element in the sun. If a person sneezes lemon on his hand and exposes himself to the sun, for example, a mark of this nature will most likely appear. Such situations can be avoided as long as citrus fruits are not handled under the sun.

Nevus

These are dark spots that appear on the skin of older adults. They are more common in black skins, and most cases are benign. It is not possible to prevent nevi, as they are linked to the genetic or family inheritance. 

Finally, it is worth mentioning that it is necessary to pay attention to the spots on the skin that grow or change color. Due to the risk of dermatological cancer, it is necessary to seek a dermatologist to evaluate the case and propose the best treatment.

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