Its scientific name is hyperpigmentation , but it manifests as dark spots on the skin, it is one of the most common skin alterations. Its appearance is due to an imbalance of cells called melanocytes , which are responsible for producing dark pigmentation. Most cases are mild and disappear within days, but other occurrences could point to more severe causes.
Causes of dark spots on the skin
The causes of dark spots on the skin are normal and frequent , but it is important to know their origin in order to treat them and rule out any complications. The following list details one of the most frequent causes in Latin America and the rest of the world.
For acanthosis nigricans
It is a difficult name to remember but its symptoms are the ones worth memorizing. When the skin begins to darken and the surface has a velvety shape, then it is very likely that it is acanthosis nigricans . This problem of darkening of the skin is visible in the joint folds of the armpits, elbows, knuckles, knees, neck and abdomen .
Data from recent studies reveal that the female gender is the most affected by this skin disorder, especially those of African, Hispanic and Caribbean descent, but anyone in the world can suffer from it. The spots begin to appear gradually and are not usually accompanied by other types of symptoms that affect health.
¿Causa acantosis nigricans?
Its onset can occur even in healthy people, but its main appearance is preceded by some alteration in health. In this specific case, the main affected are patients with endocrine imbalances. And it is that having an abnormal production of hormones the chances of suffering from acanthosis nigricans is high.
Of the endocrine problems, and to be more specific, it can be said that the metabolic syndrome and obesity are the two main causes. In both cases, the body decreases its ability to absorb the insulin that is secreted by the pancreas, this excess adheres to the skin and the dark color appears. It can also be caused by the consumption of medications such as oral contraceptives or some hormonal treatment.
Fight acanthosis nigricans
The first recommendation is to go to the dermatologist, the reason is obvious, a correct diagnosis and treatment is the immediate way to treat it. In the same way, and due to its origin, visiting an endocrinologist can be successful. At a general level, and as a prevention, the following is recommended:
Exercise to lose weight
A treatment of pills to reduce size is dangerous for several reasons, but perhaps the most important is the recent sudden alteration of the endocrine system. Losing weight to avoid skin blemishes goes hand in hand with exercise . With this process an improvement is observed in the levels of melanocytes. It is recommended to find a routine according to the current physical state.
Lemon juice
The vitamin C and the whole citrus fruit of the lemon act as a bleaching agent on the skin . Its application must be carried out at night, in this way sun exposure and the negative effects that this may have are avoided.
To use it, you only need a lemon slice, your body should be rubbed on the affected areas or apply the juice on a cotton swab. After applying it to the skin, it is left to act for about 25 minutes and then it is removed with warm water. An excellent home treatment to remove dark spots from the skin .
Using baking soda
It is a natural exfoliant, its astringent properties stimulate the complete elimination of dead cells. This quality makes baking soda perfect for removing skin blemishes from home. To use it, you just have to moisten a small amount of baking soda and apply it on the parts of the skin that you want. Now it is allowed to dry for a few minutes and then it is washed with warm water.
All options to treat skin blemishes are effective as prevention, in the case of exercise, the rest as direct combat in the initial stages. If despite these efforts the dark spots do not disappear, then a consultation with a specialist is more than necessary.
Treatments for dark spots on different parts of the body
- Treat stains on the ribs
- Eliminate dark elbows
- Treat stains on the neck
- How to remove dark underarm spots
- Remove blemishes on the face