Stating that sunspots are more common in women of reproductive age with dark skin tones living in areas with high ultraviolet radiation, Dermatology Specialist Op. Dr. Yaman Sönmez said, “Melanogenesis (production of dye in the skin) can be triggered by many factors other than UV, such as hormones, genetic predisposition, pregnancy, thyroid dysfunction, inflammation, cosmetics, drugs and reactive oxygen derivatives (ROS).”
VM Medical Park Kocaeli Hospital Dermatology Specialist Op. Dr. Yaman Sönmez made explanations about melasma (sun spots). Defining melasma, Op. Dr. Sönmez said, “Melasma is a pigment disorder that manifests itself as spotted, irregularly patterned brown or sometimes gray-brown hypermelanosis (increased dye) in the sun-exposed areas of the face, sometimes in the neck, cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose and chin, with increased melanin (dye) accumulation in the epidermis and/or dermis due to increased number and activity of melanocytes (cells responsible for pigment production) in the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin). Melasma is more common in women of reproductive age with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin type IV - VI) living in areas with high ultraviolet (UV) radiation.”
“Triggering factors”
Speaking about the causes of spots, Op. Dr. Sönmez said, “Melanogenesis (production of dye in the skin) can be induced by many factors other than UV, such as hormones, genetic predisposition, pregnancy, thyroid dysfunction, inflammation, cosmetics, drugs and reactive oxygen derivatives (ROS). Oral contraceptives, changes in the menstrual cycle and changes in estrogen and progesterone levels due to pregnancy can increase the release of MSH (melanocyte stimulating hormone). Although the pathophysiology of drug-induced hyperpigmentation is not fully known, it is thought that the accumulation of the drug or its metabolites in the skin may initiate melanogenesis by causing photosensitization.”
