Common Types Of Hyperpigmentation

 

Melanin - the pigmentation culprit

Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin caused by the overproduction of melanin. Melanin is produced in the dermis by melanocytes and is the pigment responsible for our skin, hairs and eyes color. Originally melanin protects us from the harmful UV rays which cause skin cancer but overproduction of melanin can lead to the formation of generalized or localized spots on the face and the body. Multiple factors are involved in the overproduction of melanin but mostly it is associated with either sun damage or ageing process. It does not mean that hyperpigmentation will only effect people who are above 30s, it can affect people of every age and ethnicity. Most forms of hyperpigmentation are harmless, but the person suffering from it experiences a decrease in self-confidence because the spots are more of a cosmetic nuisance.  Following are the types of pigmentation and how can we treat them:

1.    Melasma:

Melasma is the formation of black or grey brown uneven patches on the cheeks, nose, upper lips, forehead, bridge of the nose and chin. It is harmless form of hyperpigmentation and often effects women. This condition is common is people who are dark in color. It can be caused by the sun exposure, or hormonal disturbances. It can also be caused by the hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, in which case it is referred to as “pregnancy mask” or chloasma. Certain medications and birth control pills also trigger melasma on the skin. The pigmentation is deep inside the dermis and does not have a distinct border around the patches.

 

2.    Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation:

This type of hyperpigmentation is caused as a result of the inflammatory reaction. The inflammation may be caused by dermatitis, acne, warts, psoriasis, and fungal infections. The skin produces more melanin to reduce the pigmentation. Another reason for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is burns and wounds. This type of pigmentation is characterized by flat area of pigmentation which can be pink, brown, purple, red or black depending on the level of inflammatory response and skin type. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation fades over a period of time by itself.

 

3.    Dark spots or liver spots:

They are also known as sun spots, age spots, or liver spots. This is the most common type of hyperpigmentation and is often caused on the pre-maturely again or normally ageing skin. Excessive use of tanning beds or sun exposure is the leading cause of dark spots. The mechanism involves triggering of melanin synthesis as a response to the sun exposure or UV rays. Due to the ageing skin, the melanin is unevenly distributed and it leads to the formation of dark spots. They are brown to black in color depending upon the skin type and color. Normally they are harmless but people don’t like these spots and take help from cosmetic doctors in removing them. 

4.    Freckles:

This is one of the most common type of hyperpigmentation which effects people of lighter skin tones. It is usually inherited condition but can also be caused by the excessive sun exposure from a very young age. Normally freckles are harmless but there is a chance that they can lead to skin cancer. Therefore, any evolving or spreading freckles should be immediately checked by a dermatologist. 

Treatment for Hyperpigmentation:

As mentioned above, hyperpigmentation is usually harmless. The people who suffer from it consider it a flaw, and want to remove it revealing beautiful single toned skin. There are different techniques that can successfully remove hyperpigmentation after consistent sessions. Each type of hyperpigmentation requires different removal approach. Usually the techniques used are microdermabrasion, lasers, skin peels along with the topical application containing vitamin C, vitamin E, and other skin brighteners. Every technique requires careful handling and proper training from a certified institute, so that the patient does not experience any side effect associated with the treatment, for more information on hyperpigmentation treatment courses click on the given link: https://www.theharleystreet.com/botox-dermal-fillers-advanced/