Pigmentation
Introduction
Pigmentation is the word used to describe the colouring of the skin, hair, or eyes, which is caused by the presence of pigments like hemoglobin, melanin, and carotene. The main pigment that determines skin colour is called melanin, and melanocytes are the cells that make it. Genetics, sun exposure, hormones, medicines, and specific medical conditions are just a few of the many variables that can affect an individual’s level of pigmentation. Changes in pigmentation may occur when the skin generates too much or not enough melanin. For instance, a rise in melanin synthesis can result in hyperpigmentation, a skin condition marked by dark spots or patches. On the other hand, a reduction in melanin synthesis can result in hypopigmentation, which is marked by paler patches.
Pathophysiology
Depending on the underlying disease, pigmentation disorders may have different pathophysiologies. Generally speaking, melanin, the pigment that provides colour to the skin, hair, and eyes, is produced or distributed in an unbalanced manner, which results in pigmentation disorders.
An increase in melanin production is frequently the root cause of hyperpigmentation, which is characterised by dark patches or spots on the face. Numerous things, including sun exposure, hormones, inflammation, or specific medicines, can cause this. For instance, hormonal changes during pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives are believed to be the causes of melasma, a common type of hyperpigmentation.
A decline in melanin production or distribution frequently results in hypopigmentation, which is characterised by lighter patches or sections of skin. Genetic variables, specific medical conditions, or skin damage from burns or infections can all contribute to this. For instance, it is believed that an autoimmune disease called vitiligo, which causes patches of the skin to lose their pigment, is the result of the immune system of the body attacking and destroying melanocytes.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of pigmentation disorders can vary depending on the underlying condition. Some common symptoms of pigmentation disorders include:
- Hyperpigmentation: The development of dark patches or spots on the face as a result of exposure to sunlight, hormonal changes, inflammation, or certain medications.
- Hypopigmentation: Lighter patches or sections of skin that can be brought on by genetics, certain diseases, or skin damage.
- Redness: An increase in blood flow to the affected region can result in erythema, or redness of the skin.
- Skin colour changes: The skin may become more or less pigmented than surrounding areas, look blotchy or uneven in color, or exhibit other changes in skin tone.
- Hair or eye discoloration: Pigmentation diseases can also change the colour of the hair or eyes.
How do Dermatologists treat Pigmentation?
Some common treatment options for pigmentation disorders include:
- Topical treatments: To lessen pigmentation or even out skin tone, dermatologists may recommend topical lotions or ointments containing hydroquinone, retinoids, azelaic acid, or corticosteroids.
- Chemical peels: Smoother, more evenly toned skin is revealed by applying a chemical solution to the skin and removing the top layer of injured skin.
- Laser therapy: Laser therapies can be used to target and kill pigment cells, which will help hyperpigmentation look better.
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used in cryotherapy to freeze and kill abnormal skin cells, including those responsible for pigmentation diseases.
- Microneedling: This treatment uses teeny needles to make tiny punctures in the skin, promoting the body’s natural healing process and enhancing skin tone and texture.
- Cosmetic operations: In some cases of pigmentation disorders, skin-improving cosmetic procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or dermabrasion may be advised.
Some pigmentation disorders may require long-term treatment or management to maintain results. It is also important to take steps to prevent further damage from sun exposure or other triggers that can worsen pigmentation disorders.
