The human body is made of cells called melanin, its level of production determines the skin color, hair, and also the eyes. People with lighter skin have lower melanin production, lighter hair, and darker skin people have higher levels of melanin production.
An imbalance in melanin production can lead to either patches or blotches called hyperpigmentation. Hyper pigmentation is a condition when there are dark skin patches on the face on any other part of the body. In few these spots may be present from the birth known as the birth marks and likewise few people develop spots later called the sun spots.
What are the common causes of hyperpigmentation?
As mentioned, increased production of melanin is the cause of hyperpigmentation. These cells whenever unhealthy or damaged tend to produce melanin in large numbers. These excess cells can turn to a lump leading to darker skin underneath. Reach out to a best dermatologist in Coimbatore in case you notice any pigmentation marks anywhere on the body.
The common causes of hyperpigmentation:
- Changes in hormones especially during puberty
- Adrenal disorders
- Genetics like family with dark spots
- Body injuries like acne or cuts
- Medications like birth control pills
- Sun damage
- Thyroid disorders
What are the common types of skin pigmentation?
Freckles:
Ephelides, also known as freckles, are the prevailing form of pigmentation. They arise as a result of repeated sun exposure, especially in individuals with fair complexions. These freckles tend to darken in sunnier months and lighten during winter. Additionally, freckling can be influenced by hereditary factors.
Melasma:
Melasma, also referred to as chloasma, is a type of pigmentation that occurs at a deeper level in the skin’s dermis. It manifests on the face as relatively larger brown patches with an indistinct border. This particular pigmentation tendency is more frequently observed in women. Although the exact causes remain uncertain, hormonal fluctuations often play a significant role in its onset. Furthermore, exposure to UV rays worsen the condition and also stress.
Solar Spots:
Commonly referred to as sun spots or liver spots, these pigmentation spots display a different and unique appearance that can develop at any part of the body. The color range is usually from light brown to dark brown or black. UV sun exposure is the primary culprit behind their appearance, and the extent of pigmentation depends on the amount of UV light to which the melanin pigments are exposed. It is crucial to monitor these spots carefully, as they have the potential to develop into skin cancer and melanoma.
PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hypertension):
This condition is a reaction to skin injury and can arise from various factors, including acne, burns, friction, or intensive clinical procedures like chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser treatments, and IPL (intense pulsed light). In many cases, this skin condition tends to improve over time and typically responds well to topical products, though there is a possibility of recurrence.
Albinism:
This is an uncommon genetic condition characterized by the absence of melanin entirely, leading to a total lack of pigmentation in the skin, hair, and eyes.
What are the treatment options available for skin pigmentation disorders?
Face acids:
Face acids are topically applied, these when applied on the skin exfoliates or sheds the top layer of the skin. When the top layer of the skin is exfoliated the new cells begin to develop in the place of old ones. This helps in creating a new skin and the pigmentation is covered.
It can help in smoothening the skin and gives the skin an even tone.
Retinoids:
Retinoids are generally derived from vitamin A. These are the most commonly recommended medications for pigmentation disorders. As the molecular structure of the retinoids it can get easily absorbed by the skin and helps in pigmentation treatment.
Chemical peels:
Chemical peels have garnered a lot of attention in recent times. These are similar to acid or face peels. But chemical peels can have higher levels of acids. These when applied remove the top most layer of the skin revealing the second layer of the skin.
Few chemical peels can even penetrate deeper into the skin giving more drastic results.
Laser skin peel:
Laser skin peels is the procedure that uses high beam rays to reduce hyperpigmentation. There are two types of laser peels: ablative and non-ablative lasers.
Ablative lasers generally penetrate deeper into the skin and tend to remove two or more layers of the skin giving it a newer appearance. Non-ablative lasers do not remove any of the skin layers instead helps the skin promote collagen production and helps in tightening the skin.
Topical creams:
Usually people who do not want to undergo the lasers or peels can choose a topical treatment like the topical creams. They are usually applied as prescribed and can help lighten the pigmentation.
Reach for pigmentation treatment in Coimbatore to get the best treatment from the experts.
How can you prevent hyperpigmentation?
Although you cannot always prevent pigmentation especially if the cause is due to genetics. But there are always a few tips that might help in reducing the impact of pigmentation.
- Apply sunscreen of SPF of about 30 or more as it acts as a barrier and avoids any skin damage.
- Also it is important to wear skin-friendly clothes.
- Avoid scratching or picking your acne or pimples as it can make a scar or mark.
- Before trying a new cream consult your dermatologist as any of the contents of the cream may be allergic.
- Don’t overload your skin with products specially lightening creams, apply as recommended.
Important Takeaway:
Skin pigmentation can occur at any age irrespective of the gender. It is important to follow a perfect skin regimen with the consultation of a dermatologist. Ensure to read the ingredients of any skin care you are looking to try on. Also there are various skin care home remedies available that most people try on their skin. Before trying any home remedy or skin product ensure to do a patch test. Reach out to the best dermatology hospital in Coimbatore in case you are facing any skin-related disorders.
