The color of your skin can be changed by skin pigmentation disorders. Your skin gets its color from a pigment called melanin, which is produced naturally in certain cells within the skin. If these cells are hurt or not healthy, melanin production is affected. This leads to skin pigmentation disorders like these. Such illnesses make the victim's skin either lighter or darker than usual, to varying extents. They will have patches and uneven areas, and different causes. Knowing why these changes occur in the first place-namely genetics, sun exposure, hormonal imbalance etc.-and finding a treatment that really works instead of trying one after another may be useful for suffering victims of this condition.
What Causes Skin Pigmentation?
Genetics and Skin Type
The greatest determinant of your skin color is genetics. How much melanin your skin produces and distributes is thus determined by genetics. The result is various kinds of skin, different colors of it-and this influences one's vulnerability to pigments.
Sun Exposure
UV radiation from the sun is a major trigger for melanin production. Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes an excess production of melanin which results in such conditions as sunspots and other forms of pigmentation.
Hormonal Influences
Hormonal adjustments -particularly those that occur when a woman is carrying a child or taking oral contraceptives -may cause melasma, a pigmentation disorder which mostly affects women.
Inflammation and Skin Injuries
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) develops when a wound or trauma to the skin provokes increased melanin production as part of routine healing procedures. Common causes include acne inflammation, burns, diseases which affect the skin and over-active treatments to scrub or peel the face.
Types of Skin Pigmentation Disorders
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is characterized by darkening of the skin. Common forms include age spots, melasma, and postinflammatory hyperpigmented spots.
Hypopigmentation
Hypopigmentation is the opposite of hyperpigmentation, featuring patches and areas of skin that become lighter than their surroundings. This may be due to such skin conditions as vitiligo or albinism.
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a long-term condition where pale areas of skin develop due to lack of melanin. Melanin gives skin its color to begin with and without this pigment cells become white (or perhaps even greyish) in color. It can affect any area of the skin, but most commonly appears on the face, neck, and hands.
Skin Pigmentation Treatments that Really Work
When considering skin pigmentation treatment, it’s important to consult with a dermatologist who can offer the most appropriate methods in regard to your particular condition and skin type.
Topical Treatments
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone, often called a bleaching cream, can be very useful in treating hyperpigmentation. It works by doing away with some of the cells that produce melanin.
Retinoids
By increasing cell turnover rates, retinoids can gradually reduce the presence of skin pigmentation.
Vitamin C
As an anti-oxidant which brightens skin and promotes an even skin tone, vitamin C provides those who are sensitive to stronger acids ve with a gentler alternative.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels involve the application of a solution to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This allows new, less pigmented skin layers to emerge.
Laser Treatment
Ablative Lasers
Ablative lasers can remove skin layers, which is very beneficial when treating much more serious pigmentation issues.
Non-Ablative Lasers
Targeting the underlying skin tissue without damaging the outer layer, these non-ablative lasers increase collagen production and revitalize skin.
Microdermabrasion
The process of physical exfoliation for the top layer of skin, microdermabrasion can render hyperpigmentation less apparent by itself. In combination with topical treatments, however, it becomes much more effective.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
Sun Protection
Using a high SPF sunscreen is crucial for preventing skin pigmentation changes due to sun exposure. Protective clothing should also be worn, and shade sought during peak sunlight hours.
Healthy Diet
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals will both prevent skin damage and support skin health. Foods high in vitamins including A, C, and E are particularly beneficial for this purpose.
Regular Skin Assessments
Regular visits to a dermatologist's surgery will help you keep a close eye on the condition of your skin, and thereby to prevent pigmentation disorders from developing.
Conclusion
Skin pigmentation problems can be difficult to overcome. But with advances in today's dermatological treatment, there are many methods that effectively resolve this difficulty. Whether through topical applications or procedural treatments, or even changes in lifestyle, yo may be able to manage and improve skin pigmentation. The key to effective skin pigmentation therapy is first understanding the particular type and cause of your disorder, and then discovering an individualized method for dealing with it. Before starting any new treatment plans, involving topical applications or otherwise, have a professional skincare expert help you in order to achieve the best possible result for your skin health.
