Age-related pigmentation spots: what to know

Common sun-related spots may be tan to dark brown and appear on areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, or forearms. Their appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis, especially when a mark is new or evolving.

Skin produces melanin in response to ultraviolet exposure. Over time, pigment-producing cells can create uneven patches in repeatedly exposed skin. Freckles, post-inflammatory dark marks, melasma, raised benign growths, and some skin cancers can also look brown or uneven, so the label “age spot” should not be applied automatically to every mark.

Dark marks can remain after inflamed bumps settle. Acne commonly presents with pimples and may leave post-inflammatory pigmentation, particularly after squeezing or picking. Folliculitis and razor bumps can also produce inflamed bumps followed by discoloration. These marks arise after inflammation and are not the same process as sun-related age spots.

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin, seek shade, and wear protective clothing to reduce further darkening and the formation of additional sun-related spots. Use gentle skin care and avoid scratching, squeezing, harsh scrubs, or unregulated lightening products, which can worsen irritation and uneven colour.

Before trying to fade a spot, have its nature confirmed if there is any uncertainty. Depending on the diagnosis and your skin tone, a dermatologist may discuss topical treatment, freezing, peeling, or a light- or laser-based procedure. Each option can irritate the skin or alter pigmentation, and darker skin tones may be more prone to noticeable lightening or darkening after inflammation.

Book a prompt skin examination for a mark that is new, growing, changing shape or colour, developing an irregular edge, becoming unlike your other marks, bleeding, crusting, itching persistently, hurting, or failing to heal. Do not treat a suspicious mark with bleaching cream, acids, freezing products, or a cosmetic device before it has been assessed. Rapid swelling, spreading redness, fever, or pus suggests active inflammation or infection and also warrants timely care.

Ask what diagnosis best explains the mark, whether dermoscopy or a sample is needed, and whether observation is safer than cosmetic treatment. Discuss how your skin tone, tendency to scar or pigment after irritation, current skin products, and recent sun exposure affect the choices. If treatment is appropriate, ask what improvement is realistic, which unwanted changes to watch for, and how to protect the area afterward.