tanning spots

[brittbritt84651]

I just started tanning and after about the third time i've noticed these little brownish/redish spots on my chest and now some on my arms. if anyone knows what this could be let me know.

[Dr_Aparna]

Hi,
Sun spots, or solar lentigines, are hyperpigmented, single or multiple brown spots located on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun.
Often referred to as liver spots or age spots, solar lentigines may appear after treatment with ultraviolet light (PUVA) or after using tanning booths. They may appear at any age, usually on the hands and face. People with light skin are particularly susceptible.
Solar lentigines are not serious or life threatening, but because they are incorrectly perceived as a sign of aging, people with sun spots are often self-conscious about their skin. The spots darken over time and may converge to form larger unattractive splotches that can be very embarrassing, particularly if they are on the face.
You can apply skin lightening agents like Hydroquinone2% on the affected spots.
ref:http://www.skinresourcecenter.com/CommonConditions/SunSpots.aspx

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Nothing can be said with surety without having a look at the lesions.

But , there are several side effects associated with tanning -

'Sunburn, also called erythema, is one of the most obvious signs of UV exposure and skin damage. Often marked by redness and peeling (usually after a few days), sunburn is a form of short-term skin damage.'

'Sun tan - The increase in skin pigment, called melanin, which causes the tan color change in your skin is a sign of damage.'

'Sometimes referred to as “photoaging,” premature aging is the result of unprotected UV exposure. It takes the form of leathery, wrinkled skin, and dark spots.'

'There are two main types of skin cancer:Melanoma, Non-melanoma'

'Actinic or solar keratoses, is a concern because it can progress into cancer. Actinic keratoses are considered the earliest stage in the development of skin cancer, and are caused by long-term exposure to sunlight. They are the most common pre-malignant skin condition.'

'Photokeratitis can be thought of as a sunburn of the cornea. It is caused by intense UVC/UVB exposure of the eye. Photokeratitis is also called “snow blindness” because many people develop this condition at high altitudes in a snowy environment where the reflections of UVB are high. This condition can also be produced by exposure to intense artificial sources of UVC/UVB, like broken mercury vapor lamps, or certain types of tanning lamps.'

You could read more about this at -

http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/tanning/risks.html

It would be advisable to consult your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.