Have you ever noticed unusual dark spots on your face and small areas of discoloration on your body? Such signs may indicate skin pigmentation which is also known as hyperpigmentation. Pigmentation forms due to an increase in the production of melanin, which is a pigment that gives skin its color. Dermatologists say that it is mainly caused by sun exposure, hormonal imbalance, and some medications. From causes, and preventions to treatments – here’s all that you need to know about pigmentation.
What is Skin Pigmentation?
In simple terms, pigmentation is a condition that makes the skin darker. It causes changes to the color of your skin tone. It usually comes on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Any type of discoloration or uneven appearance of the skin can be a sign of pigmentation. It is certainly when the skin turns darker than the rest. It appears in smaller patches that cover larger parts or in some cases, even the entire body. Melanin is the pigment responsible for giving your skin its color when the excess pigment is deposited deep within the skin.
What are the different reasons for pigmentation on the face?
The most common reasons for hyperpigmentation on the face are –
Sun Damage – undoubtedly, there are no harsh UV rays of the sun that are quite harmful to your skin. They are responsible for 80% of the signs of premature aging of your skin. The different signs of sun damage can be hyperpigmentation that forms age spots due to lifelong exposure to the sun.
Melasma – patches of dark pigmentation caused by hormonal changes and may develop mostly during the time of pregnancy. This type of pigmentation occurs mostly in women but can also occur in men.
Medical Conditions or Medication – Hyperpigmentation in some cases can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. This is an adrenal gland disorder that increases melanin production. Certain drugs, including antibiotics, can also cause hyperpigmentation.
Solution
Now that you are familiar with facial pigmentation and the reasons for pigmentation on the face, here are a few best skincare products that can be very effective in this –
Vitamin C Serum – Vitamin C serum is a miracle product for the reduction of hyperpigmentation. This is because Vitamin C controls the excessive production of melanin. This helps in reducing the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. It works as an antioxidant that protects skin cells from the destructive free radicals caused by lengthy UV exposure.
Moisturizer – One of the easiest solutions for pigmentation is to moisturize the skin regularly. Moisturizing helps to keep your skin hydrated and visibly reduces pigmentation on the face and body. You can opt for a suitable moisturizing lotion with active ingredients to nourish and hydrate the skin deeply.
Sunscreen – Prevent your skin from the harmful rays of the sun with sunscreen. Using SPF helps block UV radiation and works wonders as a pigmentation treatment. No matter what your skin type is, you should use a broad-spectrum SPF. To shield your skin and maintain its good health and radiance.
Clinical Treatments – while tropical agents and sunscreen protection may prevent further damage. Many clinical treatments can treat already occurring pigmentation.
Laster Treatments – Many laser treatments can also be helpful to treat dark spots. Melanin pigment absorbs the laser light and can help to achieve smooth and even-out skin tone.
Home Remedies
Most of the time, hyperpigmentation is harmless but can sometimes be due to an underlying medical condition. It is more of a cosmetic issue for most people than sun damage. Here are some ways to treat pigmentation at home –
- Apple cider vinegar
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Red onion extract
- Green tea extract
- Black tea water
- Tomato Paste
Conclusion
There can be a lot of causes of hyperpigmentation or dark pigmentation. However, there are many different types of pigmentation, the most common types are freckles, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. While genetics play a major role in the formation of pigmentation, there are many other causes of this condition like sun exposure, medications, and even pregnancy. We hope this blog has helped you understand pigmentation, its reasons, and how to reduce or prevent it as suggested by skin specialists.
