What are the causes of dark pigmented skin on lower calves?
Dark spots on the lower calves have many causes. This skin discoloration is harmless in most cases, but having a doctor examine the skin is a good idea. Some common causes of pigmented areas, such as drugs, result in any area of the body growing darker in color.AgingAccording to the Mayo Clinic in its article “Age Spots (Liver Spots),” as a person ages, the body produces more melanin. This is the pigment that creates the color of skin, eyes and hair. The increased melanin can appear anywhere on the body, such as the lower calves.SunlightToo much sun exposure also may lead to dark pigmented areas, reports the Mayo Clinic. The UVA or UVB rays increase the growth of melanin in the skin. This is more likely to darken the lower calves if a person wears shorts or bicycle pants.FrictionIn some cases, darkened areas may be the result of irritation or friction, reports the section “Dermatology Answers” on the Doctors Lounge website. Boots, clothing and other garments may rub against the calves,
