Often called “sun,” “age” or “liver” spots, the most common pigment disorders are called dark solar lentigo spots.  And they can be easily avoided by treating your skin properly and avoiding the sun as much as possible.  And of course using sunscreen when you are exposed to the sun. 

Another pigment disorder that always raises questions is Melasma, also known as Pregnancy Mask.  This is hyperpigmentation often found on the forehead and neck and is often in a symmetrical pattern.  This condition is caused by a mixture of sun exposure and hormones.  When these factors are combined, melanin is increased in some women and this causes the melanin to be deposited in the top layers of the skin, which causes Melasma.  Melasma occurs in 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women, and can also happen to women taking birth control pills.  This condition usually strikes women between the ages of 20 to 39.