Causes of Brown Spots, Also Known as Age Spots

Linda M.  McCloud

Many people associate brown spots with aging. This is also why they are known as aging spots. But is this their only cause and how can they be treated?

Brown spots are also known as hyperpigmentation and as age spots. They usually begin forming in middle age. Yet, age is only one factor that causes them.

What are some of the other causes?

Inflammation

Inflammation can cause these spots. In fact there is a condition known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This occurs when a spot occurs after a trauma to the skin. This trauma can be an inflammation of some sort or even acne.

A Reaction To a Medication

Yes, you can have many different types of reactions to medications. This includes skin reactions such as hives, irritations and yes, even dark spots. Some of the medications that are more likely to cause these includes:

  • Sulfonamides
  • Estrogens
  • Amidarone
  • Phenytoin
  • Phenothiazines
  • Tetracyclines

A Reaction to The Sun and its UV Ray's

Yes, the ultraviolent rays that come from the sun can cause many reactions to the skin. It can cause it to burn. It can cause it to age quicker. It can cause skin cancer to grow and it can cause these to occur. It can even cause freckles to appear.

Pregnancy

The ever changing hormones that one endures during pregnancy can cause many reactions to occur. When it comes to the skin, pregnancy can cause it to become dryer and it cause these to occur.

Health Conditions

Certain health conditions can cause these to occur. Some of the health conditions liver disease, Addison's disease and pituitary tumor.

No, dark spots are not something most people enjoy having. However, there are ways to treat them and there are ways to keep from getting new ones. You don't have endure them just because you are growing older.

Published by Linda M. McCloud

Freelance writer living in Ohio, who is striving to learn more each day, especially about topics that relates to health, wellness, diet, weight loss & exercise. Enjoys taking what I learn and sharing it with...  View profile

8 Comments

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  • Laura Cone9/8/2011

    great

  • NANCY CZERWINSKI9/7/2011

    Linda, great article and great info!

  • Tonya Gurr9/7/2011

    Thank you much for sharing this information!

  • Michele Starkey9/7/2011

    I have a few, cheers

  • Sherri Granato9/6/2011

    Thanks for the very informative article. I have one small age spot and it is from the many hours that I spend in the sun. : O

  • Pearl Grace9/6/2011

    Very informative. Thanks, Linda!

  • Lee Hansen9/6/2011

    Thanks for some of the othe causes of them, not just age.

  • Rebecca Bardelli9/6/2011

    Thanks for the informative article! :)

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