Are sun spots melasma? What are the differences?

Speaking of spots, especially those on the face, women hate them very much. Are sun spots chloasma? What are the differences between sun spots and melasma?

Are sun spots melasma?

Sun spots are not melasma.

Sunspots are also known as solar dermatitis or solar dermatitis. As the name suggests, in summer, the skin is damaged by ultraviolet rays in the sun, forming spots on the outer layer of the skin. Chloasma is also known as butterfly spots or facial melanosis. There are many reasons for its occurrence, but the main reason is the high level of estrogen in the blood.

The difference between sun spots and melasma

1. Different causes

Sunburn: Sunburn is more common in summer. The skin is damaged by sunlight, causing various small spots to grow on the skin. If you pay attention to sun protection and avoid exposure to sunlight, you will not get sunburn.

Chloasma: The main cause of chloasma is the increased estrogen level in the blood. In addition, pregnancy, taking birth control pills, irregular menstruation, endocrine disorders, mental stress, liver and kidney diseases, etc. are all causes of chloasma. The occurrence of chloasma is mainly related to the health of the body. In addition, another reason is genetics, but the chance of chloasma being inherited is relatively small.

2. Different people have different spots

Sun spots: Sun spots affect both men and women, young and old, and people who are sensitive to light are particularly prone to sun spots.

Chloasma: Both men and women can develop chloasma, but the incidence rate in women is much higher than in men. It is also more likely to occur in older women, women who love to wear makeup, and pregnant women.

3. Different distribution locations

Sun spots: Sun spots are widely distributed on the face, neck, arms, back of hands, thighs, back, etc. As long as the part is exposed, sun spots may appear.

Chloasma: Chloasma is usually distributed on the cheekbones on both sides of the face in a symmetrical butterfly shape, so it is also called butterfly spots. Of course, in severe cases, chloasma may grow on the cheeks, forehead, and nose.

4. Spots have different shapes and colors

Sunspots: When sunspots first form, they are just a few small red dots. Many people mistakenly think that their skin is only temporarily sunburned, so they don't take it seriously. However, over time, depending on the individual's skin type and the extent of skin damage, sunspots will change to different colors, such as light red, red or even dark red, and the shape will change from the original oval to scattered spots, and the color will eventually turn brown.

Chloasma: Chloasma appears as borderless patches that are initially light brown in color. As the spots become heavier and darker, the shape does not change, but the color slowly turns to brown or even black.

Sun spots and melasma are really very different, so don't confuse them.