Brown Spots

Brown spots, or age spots, form due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Factors contributing to this overproduction include:

• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds.
• Aging, which can lead to changes in skin cell production and pigment distribution.
• Genetic predisposition, which makes some individuals more prone to developing brown spots.

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing brown spots:

• Age: Older adults are more susceptible due to cumulative sun exposure and skin aging.
• Sun Exposure: Frequent and prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays.
• Skin Type: People with fair skin are more likely to develop brown spots.
• Genetics: A family history of brown spots can increase risk.
• Use of Tanning Beds: Artificial UV light can also contribute to the development of brown spots.

Brown spots are characterized by:

• Flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation.
• Spots that are tan, brown, or black.
• Typically appearing on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.
• Sizes ranging from small freckles to larger spots.
• Usually painless and not associated with any other symptoms.

Diagnosis of brown spots involves:

• Visual Examination: A healthcare provider can often diagnose brown spots by examining the skin.
• Dermatoscope: A specialized tool that magnifies the skin, allowing for closer inspection of the spots.
• Biopsy: In rare cases, a small sample of the spot may be taken and analyzed in a laboratory to rule out other conditions, such as skin cancer.