Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra is a common condition for millions of people from African and Asian descent. It can be found in lighter skin people, but it is most frequent in people with Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI. The exact cause for these small to large raised bumps is not known. Many patients describe them as moles that their mother or another close relative also has. DPNs are more common in women than in men. Most people want them removed so that they can enjoy a clearer complexion. No one is sure just exactly what causes these benign growths, but they do not pose a threat to those who have them.
What are the symptoms of Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra?
DPNs present in the following ways:
- Small to large dark raised bumps on the skin
- Most often found on the face, neck, and upper trunk
- Common in people with darker skin tones
- They start appearing in adolescence and increase in number and size with age
- The condition appears to run in families
- More often found in women
What causes DPN?
No one is sure what causes Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra. It does appear to run in families suggesting a genetic link. Some researchers have opined that DPNs may have to do with an increase in melanin production, the pigment that provides skin color. Sun exposure also may play a role in developing lesions. No treatment is necessary for DPN. However, many people opt for treatment to improve their appearance.
What treatments are available?
Patients usually seek treatment for cosmetic purposes. At Profile MD, we often hear that the patient has an increasing number of these lesions, and they do not like the way they look.
Many treatments are available to patients, but caution is advised when dealing with darker skin tones. The wrong technology can cause hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. The following represents some of the more common removal methods:
- Excision with scissors or with a razor
- Electrodesiccation-burning of the lesion with electrical current
- Freezing with cryotherapy which can cause loss of color in darker skin tones
- CO2 laser treatments using the energy of a light beam to photo-evaporate lesions
Can I prevent Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra?
Complete prevention may not be possible due to the genetic component of DPN. However, here are some steps that may reduce the risk of developing new lesions:
- Be careful of sun exposure between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2 p.m. Protect your skin with a good sun screen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Keep your face shaded with a hat when out and about.
- Follow a good skincare routine recommended by a reliable aesthetician. Ask your skincare specialist what they would recommend for skincare products.
- Keep careful watch on your skin so that you can report any new developing lesions. Early detection and treatment give the best cosmetic result.
What to Remember
DPN is a common and harmless condition often seen on people with darker skin tones. No health risks are associated with this condition, but many people find them cosmetically displeasing and want them removed. Many options for treatment exist, but caution should be observed when treating darker skin tones.
At Profile MD, our doctors treat DPN with the CO2 laser because it consistently delivers good cosmetic results. Laser treatment is very precise and does not harm surrounding tissue. The clinicians at Profile MD offer FREE consultations to examine your lesions and to answer your questions. You can schedule an appointment at 410-544-4600.