Types Of Skin Spots

Types of Skin Spots and Their Characteristics

Skin spots may appear due to different causes, and each type has different characteristics. The most common types include sun spots, melasma, freckles, and post-acne marks. The table below compares the main characteristics of common skin spot types.

In summary, the type and cause of skin spots differ. Therefore, correctly identifying the type of spot is crucial for selecting the most appropriate treatment method.

Sun Spots (Solar Lentigo)

Sun spots are pigment increases that develop due to prolonged UV exposure. They usually appear in light brown tones, with clear borders and a round shape. They are the reflection of accumulated sun damage on the skin over the years.

Most commonly seen areas:

• Face
• Back of the hands
• Shoulders and décolleté

They are mostly superficial. Therefore, successful results can be achieved with the correct device and treatment protocol. However, there is a risk of recurrence if effective sun protection is not maintained.

Melasma

Melasma is a chronic pigmentation problem often associated with hormonal changes and has a tendency to recur. It usually appears symmetrically and commonly affects the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip area.

Triggering factors:

• Pregnancy
• Birth control pills
• Hormonal changes
• Sun exposure

Melasma often has both epidermal and dermal components. Therefore, it requires a patient, combined, and personalized treatment plan. Aggressive or uninformed treatments may darken the spot.

Freckles (Ephelides)

Freckles are small pigment spots associated with genetic predisposition. They are more common in individuals with fair skin and usually begin during childhood.

Characteristics:

• Darken in summer
• May lighten in winter
• Most commonly seen around the nose and cheeks

They represent superficial pigment increase. If they create aesthetic concerns, skin tone can be balanced with appropriate treatments.

Post-Acne Spots (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)

These are dark marks that develop after acne or skin trauma. They can be more noticeable in darker skin types. Squeezing pimples may increase the likelihood of these marks.

Formation process:

• Inflammation develops in the skin
• Melanin production increases
• Pigment may remain after healing

These spots may be superficial or dermal. Procedures performed without controlling active acne may not provide lasting results.

Under-Eye Pigmentation (Periorbital Hyperpigmentation)

Under-eye pigmentation (periorbital hyperpigmentation) is characterized by dark discoloration around the eye area. It is often associated with genetic predisposition, thin skin structure, visible blood vessels, sun exposure, and increased melanin production.

In some individuals, under-eye spots appear as brown pigmentation, while in others they may appear as purple or dark shadows. Fatigue, lack of sleep, allergic conditions, and age-related skin thinning may also make discoloration in the under-eye area more noticeable.

Age-Related Pigmentation

As age progresses, melanin distribution may become irregular and differences in skin tone may appear. This is usually associated with chronic sun damage.

Key characteristics:

• Uneven tone differences
• Dull and tired appearance
• Presence of multiple spot types together

In such cases, combined treatments targeting overall skin quality rather than only the spots should be planned.

Why Is Proper Analysis Important in Spot Treatment?

When planning spot treatment in Nişantaşı, the most critical point is determining whether the spot is superficial or dermal. Superficial spots respond faster, while dermal spots require a more controlled and longer treatment process.

At Private Dr. Arslan Polyclinic, a personalized treatment plan is created after a detailed skin analysis. Our goal is not only to reduce spots but also to safely achieve healthy, bright, and balanced-looking skin.