Why do I have dark spots on my lower back?

They are often the result of sun exposure, but they can be caused by other things, too. Skin conditions, pregnancy and certain medications or medical conditions may cause dark spots. People who have fair skin, light hair, and who have had serious or multiple sunburns are most at risk of developing dark spots.

What are the dark brown spots on my back?

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, occur when some areas of the skin produce more melanin than usual. Melanin gives the eyes, skin, and hair their color. Dark spots on the skin are not a cause for concern and do not need treatment, though people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons.

Why do I have brown patches on my back?

Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor) is a fungal or yeast skin rash. It’s caused by too much growth of a certain yeast on the skin. It causes patches on the skin that are lighter or darker than your normal skin color. The patches most often occur on the chest or back.

How do I get rid of dark spots on my lower back?

Topical creams: Topical hydroquinone or prescription retinol (vitamin A) cream may help decrease the appearance of dark skin patches. Chemical peels: Chemical peels containing salicylic acid and glycolic acid can be used to remove the outer, discolored layer of skin.

What does liver spots look like?

The condition involves the appearance of pale brown to dark brown spots on the skin called solar lentigines, liver spots, or age spots. Age spots are flat, usually oval areas of the skin that have increased pigmentation. In other words, they’re darker than the surrounding skin. They may be brown, black, or gray.

When should I worry about skin discoloration?

Some causes, such as birthmarks, are not harmful and may not require treatment. Others, such as skin cancer and cyanosis, are likely to require immediate treatment. It is essential to see a doctor if any new discolored patches of skin appear or if existing moles change in any way.

Why am I getting brown spots on my body?

Age spots, which are sometimes called liver spots or solar lentigines, happen after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, says dermatologist Amy Kassouf, MD. They can be tan, brown or black, vary in size and usually appear on the areas most exposed to the sun such as the face, hands, shoulders and arms.

What do cancerous brown spots look like?

The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred. The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue. The spot is larger than ¼ inch across – about the size of a pencil eraser – although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this.

When should I be worried about dark spots on my skin?

Age spots don’t require medical care. Have your doctor look at spots that are black or have changed in appearance. These changes can be signs of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.