What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition characterized by the darkening or increase in color of certain areas of the skin. This darkening occurs due to the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes. Common types of hyperpigmentation include freckles, age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can stimulate the production of melanin, leading to darkening of the skin.
- Inflammation: Skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, can trigger an increased production of melanin.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy (melasma or “pregnancy mask”) or due to birth control pills, can contribute to hyperpigmentation.
- Certain Medications: Some medications may cause pigmentation changes as a side effect.
- Skin Conditions: Certain skin disorders, like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can result in dark spots after inflammation or injury.
Treatment Options:
- Topical medications
- Chemical peels
- Laser therapy
- Other dermatological procedures.
Sun protection is often crucial to prevent further darkening of the affected areas. It’s essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause of hyperpigmentation and the most appropriate treatment approach for individual cases.
