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Pigmentation is the coloring of a person’s skin. When a person is healthy,
his or her skin will appear normal in color. In the case of illness or injury,
the person’s skin may change color, becoming darker (hyperpigmentation) or
lighter (hypopigmentation).
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin, the substance in the
body that is responsible for color (pigment). Certain conditions, such as
pregnancy or Addison’s disease (decreased function of the adrenal gland), may
cause a greater production of melanin and hyperpigmentation. Exposure to
sunlight is a major cause of hyperpigmentaion, and will darken already
hyperpigmented areas.
Hyperpigmentation can also be caused by various drugs, including some
antibiotics, amiodarone, chloroquine, and quinacrine.
An example of hyperpigmentation is melasma (also known as chloasma). This
condition is characterized by tan or brown patches, most commonly on the face.
Melasma can occur in pregnant women and is often called the "mask of
pregnancy;" however, men can also develop this condition. Melasma
frequently goes away after pregnancy. It can also be treated with certain
prescription creams (such as hydroquinone).
Remember to consult your physician or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis of
this condition before you choose to treat it yourself. If you have melasma, try
to limit your exposure to sunlight. Use a strong sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) at
all times, because sunlight will worsen your condition. Sunblocks containing
zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best, although sunscreens with Parsol 1789 (avobenzone)
will also provide good protection.
What is hypopigmentation?
Hypopigmentation is the result of a reduction in melanin production. Examples
of hypopigmentation are:
- Vitiligo: Vitiligo causes smooth, white patches on the
skin. In some people, these patches can appear all over the body. It is an
autoimmune disorder in which the pigment-producing cells are damaged. There
is no cure for vitiligo, but there are several treatments, including
cosmetic cover-ups, corticosteroid creams, or light treatments.
- Albinism: Albinism is an inherited disorder caused by
the absence of melanin. This results in a complete lack of pigmentation in
skin, hair, or eyes. Albinos have an abnormal gene that restricts the body
from producing melanin. There is no cure for albinism. People with albinism
should use a sunscreen at all times because they are much more likely to get
sun damage and skin cancer. This disorder can occur in any race, but is most
common among Caucasians.
- Pigmentation loss as a result of skin damage: If you’ve
had a skin infection, blisters, burns or other trauma to your skin, you may
have a loss of pigmentation in the affected area. The good news with this
type of pigment loss is that it’s frequently not permanent, but it may
take a long time to repigment. Cosmetics can be used to cover the area,
while the body regenerates the pigment.
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