Pigmentation is one of the skin disorders which occurs due to the overproduction of skin element i.e. melanin. The Colour of the skin depends on the melanin. Generally, it happens due to sun damage and may affect the area of face, arms, shoulders etc but can involve any area. So in simple terms, pigmentation happens due to the damage of skin cells or production of injured melanin.

Overproduction stage of melanin is called Hyper-pigmentation which makes the skin color darker and Underproduction stage of melanin is called Hypo-Pigmentation which makes the skin color lighter.

Expecting mother and women with hormonal imbalance may have the problem of the skin pigmentation, darker spots, and patches around the face and neck. Tanning is also taken as the skin pigmentation affecting the whole body surface.

Causes of Pigmentation:-

There is no specific reason for the pigmentation, still sun damage is the biggest reason one can have. So find below the possible causes of Pigmentation which need to be avoided for clear skin:-

• Sun Burn or exposure to the sun rays
• Drug Reaction
• Fungal infection
• Genetic Factors
• Auto-Immune Disorders
• Hormonal changes or imbalance
• Injury
• Pregnancy
• Over or underproduction of Melanin

Symptoms of Pigmentation:-

Symptoms are noticeable in the form of patches, dark spots or discolored skin around the Face, Chest, Arms, Upper back & Shoulders. Other symptoms of hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation are:-

• Brown patches on the skin
• Dark Spots
• Tanning
• Discolored Skin with more lightness or darkness
• Albinism

Any change in the normal skin color can be the sign of pigmentation and a skin specialist can better help to recognize the actual disease.

Types of Pigmentation:-

Depending upon the causes and environmental factors, pigmentation has been divided into various types which are:-

• Melasma: It occurs due to hormonal changes and especially during pregnancy. It can be recognized with the brown patches on forehead, cheeks and upper lips.
• Sun Damage: One of the common types of tanning in which dark skin spots can be seen on the face, arms, shoulders, chest and upper back. Also referred to as solar lentigines or age spots.
• Freckles or Ephelides: This usually occurs due to family history and UV exposure.
• Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This results from inflammation of wounds, traumatic injury to the skin, or lesions.

Diagnosis of Pigmentation:-

Diagnosis methods include:

• Visual Examination
• Wood’s lamp
• Skin Biopsy
• Other dermatological diagnostic tools

Treatment of Pigmentation in Gurgaon:-

Treatment will depend on the severity and age of the skin disorder. Some of the best possible treatments are:-

• Visit a dermatologist before your pigmentation becomes permanent. They can prescribe creams or lotions to improve the skin tone.
• If creams and lotions are not effective, chemical peels can be done.
• In some cases, the doctor may combine treatment with Q Switch laser.

Prevention of Pigmentation?

To avoid pigmentation, follow these tips:-

• Avoid sun exposure. Cover your skin or use sunscreen lotion.
• Choose skincare products wisely after consulting your dermatologist.
• Hydrate your skin with moisturizers.
• Drink plenty of water.

To protect your skin from the side effects of pigmentation, it’s best to consult with your nearest Pigmentation Specialist or Dermatologist in Gurgaon.

Before & After – Hyperpigmentation