Facial Spots Come From Sun Exposure
Facial spots usually associated with aging are the result of damage from the UV rays of the sun. Aging comes with fewer defenses for naturally fighting damage from the environment to the skin, making us more prone to areas of darker pigmentation. Repeated sun exposure causes spots (lentigos) and freckles (ephiledes) to appear on the skin. The face is one of the most unprotected areas of the body. Facial spots happen because of sun exposure that damages the outer, protective layer of the skin, the epidermis. Younger people can have facial spots that are not just the result of aging.
How Facial Spots Form
Melanin provides color to the skin and is produced by cells called melanocytes. Facial spots are the skin's way of trying to protect from the sun. Skin cells contain keratin and melanin. Melanin cells (melanocytes) produce facial spots as a defense against skin damage. Fair-skinned people have little melanin, making them more prone to facial spots. Light-skinned people often have freckles.
Are Facial Spots Cancerous?
Any area of pigmentation should be examined by your physician. Facial spots that change in color or shape should be investigated for the potential for skin cancer. Annual visits to the dermatologist are recommended for anyone with a history of frequent sun exposure, and for changes in facial spots. Sunscreen, worn daily, is the best protection against developing sun spots on the face that worsen with aging and increased skin damage from the sun.
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