4. Dark Patches: Photodermatitis’ Lingering Shadow
While some symptoms of photodermatitis announce their presence loudly, others are more silent, slowly revealing themselves over time. One such symptom is the appearance of dark patches on the skin. They serve as somber reminders of the sun’s intensity, like shadows cast long after the sun has set.
These patches, often termed ‘hyperpigmentation,’ result from an increased production of melanin, the pigment responsible for our skin color. In a bid to protect itself from further UV assault, the skin produces excess melanin. But instead of a uniform tan, these patches appear, silently marking the spots where the sun hit the hardest.
What’s fascinating is that these patches don’t form immediately post sun-exposure. They take their time, emerging days or even weeks later. They’re like memories that take a while to surface, reminiscing about times of intense sun exposure. The patches might not be painful or itchy, but they carry with them tales of the sun’s potent prowess.
With time, these patches might fade, especially with reduced sun exposure. However, for some, they can remain for extended periods, serving as lasting memoirs of a sun-soaked past. Through these patches, our skin conveys tales of resilience, of battles fought against the sun’s might, and of stories that are etched in melanin. (4)
