Dark Pigmentation

[Jake220]

I am a 19 year old Hispanic Male and have noticed brown blotchy spots on certain parts of my body. They are not raised nor do they hurt. I noticed the first spots about a year and a half ago on top of my foot. 3 Half an inch dark spots. They have not changed for the year and a half i have had them so i didnt worry. About 6 months ago i suddenly noticed some on the back of my left thigh and buttocks.their are like 12 of them different sizes, no bigger than an inch and a half. I went to a doctor at my university and he said it was probably just extra pigmentation but to go to a dermatologist just in case. They are not changing in size or color or texture. What could this be?? I've been looking online and i cant seem to find any answers.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

By far the most common cause of dark skin spots on people who have dark skin is just extra pigment from irritation.  Maybe you had some eczema or just inflamed skin where you see the spots.  I'm sure hat it's nothing to worry about.  The dermatologist should be able to straighten you out.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff

[Jake220]

Forget to mention that the dark pigmentations are only on the left leg and below the waist.