Why Does Our Skin Develop Spots with Age or Other Causes?

To understand why our skin develops spots with age or due to other factors, it's essential to first grasp the role of pigmentation and how it interacts with the environment, particularly with sun exposure.

The Role of Skin Pigmentation

Skin pigmentation is primarily due to melanin, a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. Melanin plays a crucial role in protecting the skin against ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. It acts as a natural barrier, absorbing and dissipating the energy from UV rays, which can damage the DNA of skin cells and lead to mutations that may cause serious conditions such as skin cancer.

Why Does Skin Color Vary Across the World?

Skin color mainly varies based on sun exposure. In areas with intense sunlight, such as Africa or other equatorial regions, populations have developed darker skin, rich in melanin, to protect against the harmful effects of UV rays. In contrast, in regions closer to the poles, where there is less sunlight, populations have evolved with lighter skin. This adaptation allows for better synthesis of vitamin D, as lighter skin absorbs UV rays more easily, which is necessary for producing this essential vitamin.

Why Does the Skin Develop Spots?

Pigment spots often appear on areas of weakened skin. These may be zones damaged by excessive sun exposure (sunspots), areas of inflammation, scars, or simply due to aging (age spots). In response to this weakening, the skin produces more melanin to protect itself. This overproduction of melanin forms spots.

How to Treat Spots Without Making the Situation Worse

Contrary to popular belief, treating a spot by exfoliating or peeling the skin—whether with chemical products or treatments like lasers—can be counterproductive. This approach further weakens the skin, and in an effort to protect itself, the skin may react by producing even more melanin, thus worsening the original spot. This can create a vicious cycle.

The Key to Naturally Fading Spots

To allow a spot to fade, it is better to strengthen the affected area of skin by restoring its integrity and health. Strengthened, well-hydrated, and protected skin tends to balance its melanin production. This allows the spot to gradually fade naturally. By opting for soothing, nourishing, and restorative treatments, we help the skin regain its balance without aggressive actions, which is crucial to preventing the reappearance or worsening of spots.

Conclusion

Spots are a natural protective mechanism of the skin. They are often a sign of skin weakening. The key to treating them effectively is not to peel the skin, but to strengthen it gently.