We should view color changes not through the lens of beauty, but from a health perspective
Today, many people see color changes on the skin as an aesthetic problem. Increased sun exposure during the summer brings pigment irregularities, and the resulting spots are often accepted as a natural consequence of aging or UV rays. However, not every spot has an innocent cause. Some spots may be early indicators of serious health problems ranging from skin cancer to immune system diseases.
Dr. Özlem Vayvada, Dermatology Specialist at Batıgöz Balçova Surgical Medical Center, emphasizes that newly developed, rapidly growing, or color-changing spots on the skin should definitely be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Not every spot is harmless
Skin spots can appear due to various reasons, such as overactivity of pigment cells, damage to the skin surface, hormonal fluctuations, or genetic factors. However, the type, distribution, and changes over time in the spots are critical for accurately diagnosing the underlying cause.
Brown spots
Brownish spots are usually caused by:
- Melasma (pregnancy mask)
- Sun spots (lentigo)
- Age spots (senile lentigo)
- Fungal infections
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
These types of spots are often harmless but can be cosmetically bothersome. Nevertheless, it is important to have them checked to distinguish them from dangerous lesions with similar appearances.
White (hypopigmented) spots
White or pale spots are usually associated with pigment deficiency and may be linked to the following conditions:
- Vitiligo
- Pityriasis alba
- Guttate hypomelanosis
- Fungal infections (tinea versicolor)
These spots may sometimes develop due to immune-related or environmental factors. In particular, conditions such as vitiligo should be evaluated as they may accompany systemic diseases.
The silent alarm of skin cancer
Some spots that form on the skin over time are not just an aesthetic difference but may be the first sign of a serious health threat. Types of skin cancer, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, may initially appear as an ordinary mole or brown spot.
Be alert if you notice:
- A newly formed spot or mole
- A growth that enlarges over time and develops irregular borders
- Color changes (structures containing multiple shades)
- Crusting, bleeding, or sensitivity on the surface
Lesions with these features are considered high-risk, especially for melanoma, and should be evaluated by a dermatologist without delay. Early diagnosis is vital in skin cancer and directly affects treatment success.
Can they be treated?
The first and most important step in treating spots is accurate diagnosis. Because not all spots are caused by the same reason, and thus, not all spots can be treated the same way. Dermatologists diagnose based on the type, location, development process of the spot, and accompanying symptoms, and create a personalized treatment plan.
Some treatment methods applied include:
- Topical treatments (lightening creams, vitamin C, retinoids)
- Chemical peeling
- Laser treatments (Q-switched, fractional lasers)
- Cryotherapy (freezing treatment)
- Phototherapy and photodynamic therapies
However, the effectiveness of the treatment method varies depending on the type of spot and the individual’s skin type.
The key to preventing spots
Although it is not possible to completely prevent skin spots, adopting certain habits can make a big difference in reducing the risk.
- Daily use of sunscreen: Products with at least SPF 30 and UVA-UVB protection should be preferred.
- Avoiding direct sun exposure: Be especially careful between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.
- Use of hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
- Regular skin examinations and monitoring of existing moles for changes
Your skin might be trying to warn you!
Finally, Dr. Özlem Vayvada offers the following warning:
“Ignoring newly formed, color-changing, or misshapen spots on the skin can lead to serious consequences. With early diagnosis, it is possible to eliminate health risks and protect skin health. Therefore, take note of every new development on your skin and, if necessary, definitely seek dermatological support.”