Solar Purpura is one of the most common skin conditions I encounter in both my The Woodlands dermatology and Conroe dermatology offices. It is most commonly seen on the dorsal aspect of the forearms and is due to the accumulation of UV damage in the skin which ultimately leads to atrophy (thinning) of the skin. Minor trauma results in large purple bruises and easy tearing of the skin due to its fragility. The bruises typically resolve with dark discoloration and scarring. When the underside of the forearms are compared to the dorsal aspect, the skin is much less blemished and thicker due to its anatomic protection from the sun. Unfortunately, most of the damage to the skin cannot be reversed but it is of utmost importance to practice strict sun protection with long sleeves and sun screen so the photodamage does not get worse.
