Skin Pigmentation in Bournemouth

Skin Pigmentation, Hyperpigmentation and Hypopigmentation

In the realm of dermatology, pigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation stand as distinctive terms delineating variations in skin colouration. Melanin, a natural pigment intrinsic to your body, is the key player governing the hue of your skin, hair, and eyes. Individuals with darker skin tones typically possess higher melanin levels within their skin cells, in contrast to those with lighter complexions. However, aberrations and dysfunctions within the skin can result in irregular pigmentation, manifesting as patches or uneven tones.

Under normal circumstances, when skin cells maintain their vitality, the skin presents a uniform appearance. Yet, when these cells undergo damage or deterioration, there’s an uptick in melanin production aimed at shielding the skin. Conversely, damage to the cells responsible for pigment production can impede melanin synthesis, leading to either lightened areas (hypopigmentation) or darkened regions (hyperpigmentation), both identifiable as distinct dermatological conditions. This discourse chiefly addresses the manifestations of hyperpigmentation. 

Freckles and Age Spots

Freckles and age spots are both forms of skin pigmentation, but they differ in several key aspects:

Cause:

Freckles: Freckles, also known as ephelides, are primarily caused by genetics and sun exposure. They result from an increased production of melanin in response to UV radiation, particularly in individuals with fair skin.

Age Spots: Age spots, also called liver spots or solar lentigines, are predominantly caused by cumulative sun exposure over time. They tend to appear later in life, typically after the age of 40, as a result of prolonged UV exposure.

Appearances

Freckles: Freckles are small, flat, and typically tan, brown, or reddish-brown in colour. They are usually round or oval-shaped and can vary in size. Freckles are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, arms, and shoulders.

Age Spots: Age spots are larger than freckles and often have a more defined border. They can range in colour from light brown to dark brown and may appear as flat, oval-shaped patches on the skin. Age spots tend to develop on areas that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, hands, arms, and shoulders.

Distribution:

Freckles: Freckles are usually more evenly distributed across sun-exposed areas of the skin, although they may be more concentrated on certain areas, such as the cheeks and nose.

Age Spots: Age spots tend to cluster in areas that receive the most sun exposure over time, such as the face, hands, and arms. They may appear in groups or patches rather than being evenly distributed.

Age of Onset:

Freckles: Freckles often appear in childhood or adolescence and may darken or become more prominent with sun exposure during these early years.

Age Spots: Age spots typically develop later in life, usually after the age of 40, and become more prevalent with increasing age and cumulative sun exposure.

Response to Sun Exposure:

Freckles: Freckles tend to darken or become more pronounced with sun exposure and may fade or lighten during periods of reduced sun exposure, such as in winter.

Age Spots: Age spots are more resistant to fading and may persist or become darker with continued sun exposure, as they are often the result of long-term sun damage.