Every individual is different, similarly every skin type is different. And skin usually comes in different colors. There are several different skin disorders that affect every skin type based on several factors. One of the most common skin disorders is pigmentation.
What is meant by pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation is a condition that affects the color of the human skin. Few of the skin pigmentation disorders include vitiligo, albinism, melasma, and many more. Skin tone is determined by a substance called melanin. Melanin contains melanocytes, when these cells get affected skin pigmentation may occur. It may occur at any part of the body but it mostly affects the face.
Though it may begin as a small spot it can spread over quickly without proper treatment.
What are the types of skin pigmentation disorders?
Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation are the two main categories of pigmentation disorders. As the name suggests, hyperpigmentation indicates the development of dark scars on the face or body. While hypopigmentation indicates lightened skin spots on the skin.
What are the several causes of pigmentation?
There can be several internal and external factors that contribute to the pigmentation development. Although the exact cause of pigmentation is not quite known, there can be several factors influencing it,
Few external factors for developing pigmentation can include:
Injury: When an injury occurs to the skin it can be bruised or a cut, which can create inflammatory reactions helping the body fight the injury site. This process increases the production of melanin leading to hyperpigmentation.
Allergies: Few skin allergies like dermatitis may be triggered by certain cosmetic products like dyes or creams.
Medications: Few medications tend to have side effects and can lead to pigmentation. Get a Skin Pigmentation Treatment in Coimbatore if your medications have suddenly begun to cause skin pigmentation.
Exposure to sun: Excess exposure to sun rays can have significant effects and specially when the sun rays have UV rays and it can damage the skin to deeper levels leading to pigmentation.
Understanding the various internal factors include:
Hormonal fluctuations:
When there are higher levels of estrogen and progesterone it can lead to a skin condition called melasma. It is a type of skin pigmentation disorder, and it can be triggered by pregnancy and certain medications.
Diseases:
Certain diseases may cause skin pigmentation disorders as they may lead to hormonal imbalance.
Hereditary causes:
Heredity can cause a major impact in developing skin pigmentation. As you may carry the genes of skin pigmentation if your parents have it.
What are the complications of skin pigmentation disorders that might follow?
There are several complications that may follow if pigmentation is not treated at the right time. Pigmentation can lead to several skin disorders once the pigmentation begins to spread.
Albinism:
Albinism is a skin pigmentation disorder that is usually inherited. This condition usually occurs when the melanin pigment is absent. People with albinism will have defective genes that prevent the production of melanin. People with albinism should ensure to apply sunscreen at all times as they can be at a risk developing skin cancers due to sun damage.
Melasma:
Melasma is a condition that causes brown patches that usually appear on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. This condition usually develops in pregnant women and is often referred to as a “pregnancy mask” both men and women can develop the condition. But usually it is highly reported in women due to hormonal changes, medications and pregnancy.
Pigmentation change due to skin damage or injury:
If your skin has experienced an injury, cut, blister or any other kind of damage, the skin around the injury may be slightly darker in color. Although this kind of pigmentation is not permanent, it may take several months to fade away naturally.
Vitiligo:
Vitiligo is a skin condition that occurs when the immune system attacks the healthy cells leading to vitiligo. Vitiligo is a kind of autoimmune disease. In this condition, there may be white patches at different parts of the body.
When should you visit a dermatologist for pigmentation?
Generally pigmentation disorders do not generally cause any pain or discomfort. But as you notice any visible change in color of your skin seeking immediate pigmentation treatment is advisable to avoid severe progression of the disease.
Can stress lead to pigmentation disorders?
There are several researches that stress is one of the major reasons for developing skin pigmentation. Stress can lead to premature skin aging, dark circles due to sleep deprivation, fine lines, and elasticity of the skin is also reduced.
Is pigmentation curable?
Usually pigmentation when diagnosed early can be managed effectively without major spread. Although there are certain types and complications of skin pigmentation disorders that may not be cured but can be managed with topical medications and therapies.
Important Takeaway:
Understanding the varied nature of complications associated with pigmentation disorders is important to understand the treatment options. From hyperpigmentation to hypopigmentation each type and complication has its own challenges, both emotionally and physically. Reach out to the Best Dermatology Hospital in Coimbatore, to seek expert care and treatment for skin pigmentation disorders.
