Why has my skin darkened over the years?

Commonly, darkened skin appears as fairly small spots, called “age spots” or lentigines, which can be caused by sun damage acquired over a long period of time. In fact, sun exposure is one of the most common causes of darkened skin.

Why does my skin tone changes randomly?

Changes in melanin production can be due to a variety of conditions and some medications. Skin darkening can be due to changing hormone levels or medications, but it can also occur from exposure to ionizing radiation (such as the sun) or heavy metals. Radiation therapy can also cause an increase in skin pigmentation.

How can I regain melanin?

Vitamin A. Studies suggest vitamin A is important to melanin production and is essential to having healthy skin. You get vitamin A from the food you eat, especially vegetables that contain beta carotene, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and peas.

When should I seek medical care for darkening of the skin?

Seek prompt medical care if you have darkened skin and are also experiencing fatigue, loss of appetite, or sudden depression; if the darkened areas are also occurring in your mouth or other mucus membranes; or if you are experiencing diarrhea or constipation. If your darkened skin is persistent or causes you concern, seek prompt medical care.

What is darkened skin?

What is darkened skin? Darkened skin, or hyperpigmentation, is the appearance of patches of skin that become darker than the surrounding area. Hyperpigmentation can also diffusely involve the total skin surface of the body. The change in color happens when there is overproduction of melanin, the pigment normally found in the skin,

Why do age spots appear on your skin?

Once sun exposure darkens the skin, it is only a matter of time before it goes back to its original hue. But if the amount of contact goes beyond the reasonable limit, that is when age spots show up. The skin tends to produce more melanin once it is exposed to the sun as a way of protecting it from the harmful ultraviolet rays.

Why is my skin getting darker without sun exposure?

If your skin if getting darker without sun exposure, then you’re likely faced with a case of hyperpigmentation. It occurs when the body’s melanin count significantly increases and gets clumped up in one particular area. Hyperpigmentation may be caused by hormonal changes, especially among women who go through pregnancy or menopause.