Melanin is a pigment that gives skin its color and is produced by special cells in the skin. Melanin production is impaired when these cells are damaged or diseased.
Some pigmentation diseases affect only a tiny part of the skin, while others can affect the entire body.
When your body produces too much melanin, it can cause your skin to become darker or even have an uneven skin tone and dark spots in different places. Pregnancy, skin disease and excessive sun exposure can cause irregular melanin production, leading to a number of skin problems, including discoloration and uneven skin tone.
Types of skin discoloration / pigment spots
Below is a list of the most common types of skin pigmentation disorders and some of the treatment options available:
1. Uneven skin tone
What is uneven skin tone?
Uneven skin tone (pigment spots), also called hyperpigmentation, is an irregular darkening of the skin that can be attributed to a variety of causes, including stress, sun exposure, and pollution. It is caused by an increased production of melanin, the pigment that determines skin and hair color. Dark spots and patches that result from this are commonly perceived as "aged skin" and can make you look older.
How to treat uneven skin tone?
To correct uneven skin tone and return to healthier skin, you must follow a skincare routine that includes products to correct dark spots. Don't forget to cleanse and moisturize your skin daily, use exfoliators, scrub and use sunscreen.
2. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as hypermelanosis, is caused by overproduction of melanin following inflammation. Post-inflammatory pigmentation is a temporary pigmentation that occurs after a skin injury (e.g., burn) or inflammatory condition (e.g., dermatitis, infection). It is more common in people with darker skin (see ethnic dermatology). Acquired melanosis is another name for post-inflammatory pigmentation.
How is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation treated?
There are various topical treatments available to lighten/bleach hyperpigmented lesions in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation of the epidermis, such as vitamin C cream, corticosteroid creams, and glycolic acid peels, to name a few. While chemical peels, laser treatments, and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies can help with epidermal pigmentation, they can also make it worse by damaging the epidermis. It is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher daily to prevent darkening caused by UV radiation. Cosmetic camouflage is an option.
3. Melasma
What is melasma?
Melasma usually appears as pigmented patches on the face, ranging from dark brown to gray-brown. During pregnancy, this is known as the pregnancy mask. Melasma is thought to be caused by sun exposure, hormones, and the contraceptive pill.
How is melasma treated?
Melasma can be prevented by using sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure. Prescription treatments such as hydroquinone and tretinoin can also be used to lighten the spots. Chemical peels and laser therapy are also options.
4. Skin damage leading to loss of pigmentation
What is skin damage?
When your skin is damaged by physical trauma such as ulcers, blisters, burns or infections, the skin may not be able to restore some of the pigment in the affected areas. The affected areas are usually clearly visible and fade over time.
How are trauma scars treated?
Post-inflammatory and mild post-traumatic discoloration can be treated with dermatologically developed creams and serums to reduce the appearance of scarring and discoloration. Medical laser treatments are also available to reduce the appearance of more severe scarring.
Whether you are suffering from skin pigmentation and/or discoloration, be it in the form of acne scars, white patches on the skin, dark spots on the face, red patches on the skin, skin redness, etc., it is always best to have a skin care routine that treats your skin with the care it deserves.
Make sure the products you choose for your skincare routine are safe and backed by clinical studies, such as IMAGE Skincare, ZO Skin Health, Sesderma, Heliocare, Endocare or NEOSTRATA dermatological products for pigmentation and discoloration.
In summary, any change in skin tone can be alarming or worrying. It's natural to feel worried or frustrated when dealing with skin damage or a chronic skin condition. If you need additional help, don't hesitate to reach out to your health professional or therapist.
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