Skin discoloration affects many people. Discoloration may appear as a birthmark or after an infection, or from pigmentation disorders or diseases like cancer. Seek treatment from a healthcare provider for any new or changing moles, markings or skin discoloration.
Skin discoloration is when the color of your skin is different from what’s normal for you. Skin discoloration looks different on everyone, too. Discolored skin patches or spots can appear brown, red, white, pink, purple or black depending on your skin tone and the reason for the discoloration. Many things cause your skin’s pigment or coloring to change.
Some types of skin discoloration are caused by melanin production. Your body’s cells produce melanin, which gives your skin (and hair and eyes) its color. Sometimes, these melanin-containing cells get damaged and begin producing too much or too little melanin. If your body makes too much melanin, your skin gets darker. If your body doesn’t make enough melanin, your skin gets lighter.
Discolored skin can be caused by:
Some skin conditions cause your skin to become dry, scaly and itchy. Others only affect your skin’s color. Many skin discoloration issues are treatable and don’t cause long-term harm.
If you have discolored skin, notice any changes in the coloring of your skin or develop new rashes or markings on your skin, contact a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
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Many things can cause discolored skin. Some of the most common are birthmarks, moles, infections, trauma or medical conditions.
Birthmarks are areas of skin discoloration that appear at birth or shortly after. Some birthmarks fade over time, while others are permanent or darken with age. Birthmarks are either vascular or pigmented. Vascular birthmarks are caused by irregular blood vessels. Pigmented birthmarks are caused by irregular melanin production.
Some of the most common birthmarks are:
Moles (nevus or nevi) are brown or black growths on your skin. They usually appear as circular or oval spots but can also appear in groups. Moles can change in appearance over time or disappear. You can also develop new moles.
Moles can lead to skin cancer, so it’s always a good idea to note any changes in their shape, size, texture or color. The ABCDEs are important signs of moles that could be cancerous.
Some skin rashes and infections cause your skin to change color. They are treatable with over-the-counter or prescription medication. Some examples of the most common infections or rashes are:
Some skin conditions are genetic or caused by hormonal changes beyond your control. Some common skin conditions that cause your skin to get darker or lighter are:
Skin cancer most often develops on your face, arms, hands and neck due to sun exposure. Skin cancer occurs when cancerous cells form in the tissues of your skin.
Some health conditions cause hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin):
A healthcare provider will ask questions like when the discoloration started, if it’s changed, how it feels or if you have other symptoms or medical conditions. They diagnose skin coloration disorders or conditions by:
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It depends on the cause. If a medical condition is causing the skin discoloration, treating the underlying issue may fix the skin discoloration. If the skin problems or moles are cancerous, you’ll need surgery to remove areas of your skin or begin radiation therapy or other cancer treatment. Some discoloration goes away on its own or with minor treatment.
Some skin pigmentation issues can be treated at home or with topical medication available at the drug store. Others require stronger topical or oral medications from your healthcare provider.
Some common treatments for skin discoloration issues are:
Some causes of skin discoloration (like birthmarks or genetic conditions) are beyond your control. However, if you have skin discoloration caused by a condition or infection, there may be steps you can take to reduce your chances of future cases. These may be things like avoiding things that irritate your skin or practicing good hygiene.
There are also steps you can take to reduce your risk of conditions like skin cancer or sunburn:
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You should see a healthcare provider for a skin check every year. But you should also look over your skin regularly and call a provider if you notice any:
You’re used to how your skin looks, so it can be alarming to notice a change like skin discoloration. There are many possible causes of skin discoloration, though, from a sunburn to an infection. Changes may also happen during pregnancy or by an underlying health condition that needs medical attention.
Skin discoloration is very common, but don’t let that prevent you from seeking care. Always pay attention to changes or new markings on your skin. Contact a healthcare provider if you notice anything different or new about your skin, such as discolored spots, patches or moles. Most discolored skin conditions and disorders are treatable, but a prompt diagnosis leads to the best outcomes.
Last reviewed on 06/17/2024.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy