Melasma and lentigines are both skin conditions that cause changes in pigmentation, but they differ in their appearance, causes, and demographics.
Understanding Melasma
Melasma is characterized by the appearance of brown or gray patches on the skin. These patches commonly occur on the:
- Cheeks
- Forehead
- Upper lip
- Chin
According to the reference, women, particularly those with darker complexions and pregnant individuals, are more prone to developing melasma. It's often associated with hormonal changes.
Understanding Lentigines
Lentigines, also known as solar lentigines or age spots, are small, darkened spots that are associated with aging and sun exposure. They are common in people over 40 years old. They typically appear on areas of the skin that are often exposed to the sun, like:
- Face
- Hands
- Arms
- Upper back
Key Differences Summarized
Here is a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Melasma | Lentigines (Solar Lentigines) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Brown or gray patches | Small, darkened spots |
| Common Locations | Cheeks, forehead, upper lip, chin | Face, hands, arms, upper back |
| Main Causes | Hormonal changes, often in pregnant women | Aging, sun exposure |
| Demographics | More common in women, especially with darker skin | Common in people over 40, regardless of gender |
Summary
In short, melasma is characterized by larger patches of discoloration often linked to hormonal changes, while lentigines are smaller spots primarily due to aging and sun exposure. The provided reference states: "Melasma causes brown or gray patches to appear on the skin...Solar lentigines is often known as 'age spots' and are associated with ageing. It is common in people over age 40.".
