Unlocking The Secrets: Exploring The Factors Behind Skin Hyperpigmentation

We all desire youthful and radiant skin, but there are certain skin issues that make us look dreary and lessen our confidence. Pigmentation on skin is one such stubborn problem that we all want to avoid. Hyperpigmentation is characterised by uneven patches and dark spots on the skin. In this blog, we’ll take you through various skin pigmentation causes, effective home remedies to treat skin pigmentation and types of skin pigmentation disorders. Keep on reading!

What is Skin Pigmentation 

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that occurs due to excess production of melanin, a pigment that is responsible for giving skin its colour. Due to hyperpigmentation, some patches on the skin start appearing darker than normal skin. Issues related to hyperpigmentation are more frequently visible during pregnancy, older age and changes in lifestyle. (1)

Causes of Skin Pigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a skin concern that can be caused due to various reasons. Let us look at some of the major skin pigmentation causes below.

1. Prolonged Sun Exposure

The primary reason for pigmentation on the face is the sun’s UV rays. Our skin produces melanin to protect itself from harsh UV rays. The excess melanin produced in the skin as a result of prolonged exposure to the sun leads to dark spots or pigmentation. (2)

1. Skin Inflammation

Various skin issues such as acne, eczema, bug bites, wounds, and scrapes, as well as scratching or friction from vigorous rubbing can cause inflammation on the skin. In turn, the inflamed skin activates pigment-producing cells that leave a dark patch on the healed skin. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a common term used to describe discolouration that is brought on by inflammation and is more likely to occur in people with darker skin. (3)

1. Melasma

Melasma, also known as the "mask of pregnancy," is characterised by brown patches that typically appear in pregnant women and in women with variable hormone levels. Although this type of skin pigmentation disorder can happen in men as well, but it most frequently affects females. It is believed to be brought on by a mix of hormonal changes, genetics, and sun exposure. (4)

1. Due To Medical Conditions 

Certain medical conditions like, Addison's disease, an adrenal gland illness can increase melanin production thus leading to hyperpigmentation. Antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), and antimalarials are a few medications that may also increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. (5)

1. Genetical Disorders

The likelihood of black hyperpigmentation on skin in an individual might also be influenced by genetics. Melanin production is higher in people with darker skin tones, rendering them more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. Even in people with a genetic tendency for hyperpigmentation, environmental factors, especially sun exposure, frequently cause it to develop. (6)

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Different Types Of Skin Pigmentation  

While melanin is necessary to protect the skin from UV damage, its abnormal distribution can result in different types of skin pigmentation. Below are the various types of skin pigmentation disorders.

Hyperpigmentation

A skin type that has an abnormally high concentration of melanin causes hyperpigmentation, which results in the skin becoming darker or having a different colour. Hyperpigmentation is majorly a result of: 

• Ageing
• Acne Scars
• Pregnancy
• Addison's disease
• Medications, including birth control pills and antibiotics
• Excessive exposure to harmful UV rays of the sun
• Undergoing light therapy, laser therapy, or cryotherapy (7)

Hypopigmentation

Unlike hyperpigmentation where there is high production of melanin, in hyper pigmentation melanin secretion is low and the colour of the skin looks pale. Major skin hypopigmentation causes are:

• Past skin injuries brought on by chemical exposure, burns, blisters, ulcers, or infection 
• Eczema and other inflammatory skin disorders, such as psoriasis
• Rare genetic disorders like albinism, which is brought on by a deficiency in the enzyme that produces melanin,

Depigmentation

When your skin totally loses its colour and turns white, this is known as depigmentation. Vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder that results in smooth, white areas on the skin, is one typical reason for depigmentation.

Home Remedies For Skin Pigmentation

There are various over-the-counter skin pigmentation treatment medicines, however, some home remedies have garnered a lot of attention for ages. Below are some of the famous pigmentation skincare remedies that can give you radiant skin. 

1. Aloe Vera Gel 

This gel obtained from the aloe vera plant works as a magical elixir to treat various skin disorders. The main component in aloe vera, aloesin, may stop excessive melanin production and hyperpigmentation in the skin. 

All you have to do is apply the fresh Aloe Vera Pulp on the affected area, leave it overnight and wash the face with cold water the next morning.

1. Yoghurt & Milk 

The presence of lactic acid in milk and yoghurt can assist with moderate hyperpigmentation. 

You can directly apply yoghurt or milk to the pigmented region or soak a cotton ball in milk and apply it to the affected area. After 5-10 minutes of application, cleanse the skin thoroughly and apply moisturiser. Regular usage of this home remedy may give quick results. 

1. Multani Mitti, Papaya and Vitamin E Face Pack

Papayas have the papain enzyme, which helps to lighten any dark spots, Vitamin E is a strong antioxidant that combats sun damage, and Multani Mitti is a rich source of therapeutic minerals that assist to cleanse, nourish, and exfoliate the face.

Take 1 tbsp raw papaya paste, ½ cup multani mitti and 2 Vitamin E capsules, and mix all the ingredients together to make a thick paste. Apply the paste, after 20 minutes and wash the face with lukewarm water. For better results, apply this face pack once a week. This is one of the best home remedies for curing skin pigmentation.

Although hyperpigmentation may make your skin look dull and down your confidence, but with the right set of skincare products by your side and bringing a positive change in lifestyle you can deal with this skin issue and slay at your best.

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