When to see a doctor for a skin blemish?
Attention should be paid to changes in the appearance of the spots.
Dark spots on the skin are a normal part of aging. These appear especially due to overexposure to the sun. They are areas where the skin tone is irregular with light and dark parts. Medline Plus, the website of the United States National Library of Medicine, indicates that the spots can also be caused by different factors:
Patchy discoloration or blotchy skin can be caused by:
- Changes in melanin, a substance produced in skin cells that gives skin its color.
- Growth of bacteria or other microorganisms on the skin.
- Changes in the blood vessels (vascular).
- Inflammation due to certain skin rashes.
- Exposure to radiation (such as that from the sun).
- Exposure to heavy metals.
- Changes in hormone levels.
- Certain conditions, such as vitiligo.
- Certain fungal infections.
- Certain skin rashes.
Mayo Clinic experts point out that age spots (known as age spots) and aging do not require treatment. However, in case of presenting some of the following characteristics, it is advisable to consult a doctor , since it may be a warning sign of skin cancer.
In case of presenting some of the following characteristics, it is advisable to consult a doctor, since it may be a warning sign of skin cancer. – Photo: Forums Week
The stain:
- It’s black.
- It is increasing in size.
- It has an irregular edge.
- It has an unusual color combination.
- Has bleeding.
Importance of taking care of the skin from the sun
Protection is the key to preventing skin damage. Exposure to sunlight should be avoided as much as possible. It is also key to reducing the risk of skin cancer.
“When UV light enters skin cells, it can damage the genetic material (called DNA) within them. Damage to DNA can cause changes in cells and cause cells to grow and divide rapidly. This growth can result in groups of additional cells known as tumors or lesions, which can be cancerous (malignant) or harmless (benign).
Although protecting the skin from the sun’s rays in the daily routine can be a difficult task, the experts at Medline Plus recommend some skin care solutions.
- Avoiding sun exposureis the most important step in preventing the signs of aging and the development of skin problems. Exposure should be avoided between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., since UV rays are intensified during this time.
- Sunscreen (photoprotector) should be usedeven on days where, apparently, there is no sun. Its daily application is also recommended, even if the skin is not exposed directly to sunlight. Screens such as tablets, cell phones and computers also affect skin health.
- Do not use lamps or machines to tan. There are some aesthetic companies that have this service, but the truth is that exposing yourself to these procedures, for at least 15 minutes, is just as dangerous as being exposed to a sunny day.
- It is important to keep in mind that in places where there is higher altitude, the skin burns faster.
- Caps, hats, glasses and umbrellas are allies for protection against the sun’s rays.
Skin cancer
As Medline Plus explains, cancer cells can form on the head, neck, face, hands, and arms. Although everyone can get skin cancer, it is more common in people who:
- They are exposed to the sun for a long time or have suffered sunburns.
- They have light hair, skin, and eyes.
- You have a relative who has had skin cancer.
- They are over 50 years old.
