Pigmentation is a type of diffuse skin disorder; its main feature is an increase in the pigmentation compared to the adjacent skin. This kind of condition happens as a result of the increased melanin concentration in the skin in a form of deposits called pelta. The reasons for hyperpigmentation may be from the sun, hormonal thingies, inflammation or medications. Appreciating the foundations of melasma is the main concern in a good approach of prevention or treatment.
- Sun Exposure:
Another main reason for hyperpigmentation is sunlight UV-ray which is a massive source of UV light. Appearing as a normal reaction to hand exposure with sunlight, this excess melanin found in some areas of the skin can deposit and give rise to dark spots and patch as commonly called, sunspots or solar lentigines. Long sun exposure which is unprotected can even develop new pigmented spots and ends up causing the existing unevenness in the skin complexion to go out of control.
- Hormonal Changes:
The fluctuations of hormones can also precipitate pigmentation, this is known especially in women. Melasma, or chloasma menstrualis, a form of hyperpigmentation, is one of the effects of hormonal fluctuations which is most common. During pregnancy, it may happen due to the high estrogen and progesterone levels producing the melanin. It is the characteristic feature of geographic malar lesions and they appear as symmetric and brownish macular patches on the face that mostly involve cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. Are hormonal changes causing your hyperpigmentation? You can find out by referring to a Best Dermatologist in Karachi.
- Inflammation:
Acne, rosacea, burns, and other inflammatory conditions contribute to the skin, and their resultant scarring and pigment deposition can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Upon traumatic stimulation of the skin by acne, cuts, burns or bite of an insect, the body sends melanin as a part of the protective and healing responses. But, sometimes this excessive melanin production gives birth to a phenomenon where the affected region becomes dark as a result.
- Skin Aging:
The skin loses its capabilities of maintaining a healthy structure and function as it gets old. Therefore, skin pigmentation may start to develop. During the course of time, the damage due to constant exposure to the sun, oxidizing, lessening cell renewal, all of these factors can lead to the uneven distribution of melanin in the skin. A simple photograph of a small illustration showing a person’s hands with spots of different shades of brown indicating the presence of age spots or liver spots or senile lentigines is a good example of photoshopping in the context of dermatology. The blemishes of the brown color that resemble the patchy flatland are usually noticeable in the face, hands, arms, and breast area.
- Medications and Chemicals:
Extending the period of exposure to certain chemicals or medicines may increase melanin production leading to hyperpigmentation. In this case, there are a range of medications including medications such as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), antimalarial drugs, chemotherapy agents and some of the antibiotics. Besides, the use of the chemical content delivered in skincare products, cosmetics and hair dyes can also lead to a situation of dermatitis, triggered by contact which is called contact dermatitis and involves the site of contact inflammation and hyperpigmentation.
Treatment:
There are different treatment options for hyperpigmentation but, depending on which of these factors; the underlying cause or the severity, treatment varies from one to the other. Topical creams comprising substances such as hydroquinone, retinoids, azelaic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C and niacinamide work as bleaching, thus lightening the dark spots. Pigmentation removal processes such as combinations of chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser therapy and intense pulsed light would also produce incredible results in eliminating melanin from the skin cells.
Conclusion
Hyperpigmentation is a disorder that affects many people and is seen on the skin as darkening of a certain area because of too much melanin production. The process of hyperpigmentation is triggered by certain processes, such as the exposure to sun, hormonal changes, inflammation, aging, influence of medications, and so forth. It is a vital step to learning about the root cause of hyperpigmentation in order to better implement prevention plans and choose the necessary therapy to acquire a clearer, more even skin. To get treatment for hyperpigmentation you can book an appointment with a Skin Specialist in Lahore.
