What Causes Dark Spots On Skin?

Age spots, sun spots, and dark spots are all synonymous with a skin condition formally known as hyperpigmentation. While hyperpigmentation isn’t typically a cause for concern, some individuals opt to have these spots removed for cosmetic reasons.

Nowadays as skincare continues to become more and more sophisticated, there are even over-the-counter products that can help diminish the appearance of dark spots. So what is hyperpigmentation? And what causes these mysterious spots to spring up unexpectedly? As always, we’ve got the insider scoop! Continue reading for the rundown on dark spots and how to beat them before they have a chance to even appear. 

What are dark spots on skin?

Dark spots, or patches of hyperpigmentation, result from an excess of melanin in the skin that causes discoloration. Ranging in color from faint to dark brown, dark spots can occur nearly anywhere on the body, though they often cluster in common areas. You’re most likely to notice dark spots emerge on the back, face, hands, and shoulders. These spots will also vary in size and shape, however, their texture tends to be the same as the rest of your skin. 

What do dark spots on skin mean?

As mentioned, dark spots aren’t necessarily something to be worried about. In fact, most folks over the age of 50 experience hyperpigmentation to some degree. Dark spots and overexposure to UV rays go hand in hand, so if you love the sun like a lizard, you’re more likely to have hyperpigmentation. 

Why do I have dark spots on my skin?

Common causes of dark spots

• Overexposure to UV light - the most common cause of dark spots is sun damage. There’s a reason every expert in skin health stresses the importance of protecting your skin with an SPF. You likely won’t see the result of too much sun until your later years in life when dark spots begin to develop. If you’ve had many severe sunburns, or are fair-haired and pale-skinned, you’re at greater risk of having hyperpigmentation. 

• Inflammation - there are a number of different causes of skin inflammation, including acne, injury, allergies, and the like. In some cases, as inflammation subsides, dark spots appear in their place. You can lessen the likelihood of this by keeping the area clean and refraining from picking or touching your skin unnecessarily. 

• Skin conditions - some skin conditions may be the culprit for dark spots. Most of these skin conditions are not age-related and can occur at any stage in life. 

  • Melasma - characterized by brown patches on the face and neck, melasma is nicknamed the “pregnancy mask” as it typically occurs as the result of hormonal imbalances such as those that take place during gestation. 

  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation - as previously mentioned, hyperpigmentation can emerge post-inflammation. Trauma to the skin such as acne, burns, or eczema is a common cause of dark spots. 

  • Riehl’s melanosis - a specific type of contact dermatitis, Riehl’s melanosis is most often caused by too much sun exposure, as well as an allergy to certain cosmetics and fragrances. 

• Prescription Medicines - we’re all well aware that most medications come with a laundry list of side effects. And believe it or not, the appearance of dark spots on the skin is one of them. The most frequent offenders are NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), mood-stabilizing meds, and tetracyclines. 

• Pregnancy - hormonal changes can throw our bodies way out of whack, especially during pregnancy. In some cases, pregnancy can cause a woman to undergo bodily changes that she’s never experienced before. Never had heartburn? Whelp, now you have! Love your thick locks? Prepare to pull out handfuls of hair in the shower. And if you have a flawless complexion, there’s always a chance of dark spots developing. 

How to get rid of dark spots

There are a handful of ways to treat hyperpigmentation. Depending on the severity of your dark spots, you can try topical treatments or opt to consult a professional. Because professional procedures can be costly, we recommend testing out a topical treatment first. 

Best Skincare for Reducing the Appearance of Dark Spots

If you’re searching for a solution to fade dark spots on your skin, look no further than the Vitamin C Glow serum and eye gel. Equipped with our fan-favorite these Vitamin C infused products have everything you need to get that glow we all envy. Vitamins C & E, hyaluronic acid, and organic fruit extracts combine to create these powerful products that fade dark spots, even out skin tone and breathe life back into a dull, dry complexion. 

To reduce the appearance of age spots and fine lines, the Pink Moroccan Glow Mask is your go-to product. This mask boasts quite the resume, possessing properties that reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles, boosts skin’s elasticity, improves overall tone and texture, and restores healthy hydration.