What is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation refers to the natural color of the skin, hair, and eyes, determined by melanin, a pigment produced by melanocytes (specialized skin cells). An imbalance in melanin production leads to skin pigmentation disorders, which can cause darker or lighter patches.

Types of Pigmentation Disorders

1. Hyperpigmentation (Dark Spots or Patches)

This occurs when excess melanin is produced, leading to dark spots or uneven skin tone.
🔹 Causes:

• Sun exposure (UV rays stimulate melanin production)
• Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control, PCOS)
• Acne scars or skin injuries
• Aging (age spots or liver spots)
• Inflammation (eczema, psoriasis, or wounds)
• Certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy drugs)

🔹 Common Types:

• Melasma – Brown or gray patches, often on the face, triggered by hormones.
• Sunspots (Lentigines) – Dark spots caused by prolonged sun exposure.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) – Dark spots left behind after acne, burns, or injuries.

2. Hypopigmentation (Light Patches or Loss of Skin Color)

This occurs when melanin production is reduced or stopped in certain areas.
🔹 Causes:

• Vitiligo – An autoimmune condition where the body destroys melanocytes, leading to white patches.
• Albinism – A genetic disorder causing little or no melanin production.
• Tinea Versicolor – A fungal infection that disrupts skin pigmentation.
• Scars or skin injuries – Sometimes, wounds heal with a loss of pigment.