NIC Esthetician Written ExamSkin Analysis and ConsultationMedium
During a client consultation, a client expresses concern about hyperpigmentation on her décolleté, which she describes as small, scattered, flat, brownish spots that have appeared over time. She spends a lot of time outdoors. What type of hyperpigmentation is she most likely describing?
- ASolar lentigines
- BMelasma
- CFreckles (ephelides)
- DPost-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Solar lentigines
Solar lentigines, commonly known as 'sun spots' or 'age spots,' are small, flat, brownish spots that appear on sun-exposed areas like the décolleté due to chronic sun exposure and accumulate over time.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Melasma presents as larger, irregular patches, often symmetrical, on the face (forehead, cheeks, upper lip), and is linked to hormones and sun.
- C. Freckles are small, light brown spots that darken with sun exposure but fade in winter; they are more common in younger individuals and genetically predetermined.
- D. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation typically occurs after skin injury or inflammation, not primarily from sun exposure on scattered areas.
Solar Lentigines
Commonly known as sun spots or age spots, these are flat, benign, hyperpigmented lesions that develop on sun-exposed skin due to chronic UV radiation.
- Appear as small, discrete brown or black spots.
- Primarily occur on face, hands, décolleté, and arms.
- Increase in number and size with age and sun exposure.
Memory trick: Solar lentigines are the sun's little brown 'lentils' scattered on your skin.