Pigmentation or hyperpigmentation appears because of a protein called melanin produced by cells called melanocytes. The production of melanin is one of the most fascinating defense mechanisms of the skin. When the skin is damaged through a wound, or when there is exposure to harmful UVA/UVB radiation through the sun. The skin gets protective of itself, and melanocytes start over producing melanin. The deposit of melanin in the outer layer of the skin ensures the restriction of external irritants or potentially harmful elements (like UVA UVB rays) from entering the body and causes DNA alterations.
Therefore, when skin cells are damaged or are unhealthy, they can produce excessive melanin causing melanin to clump and the appearance of dark patches on the skin, tanning or brown/black spots.
WHAT CAUSES PIGMENTATION?
SUN EXPOSURE
Stepping out into the sun without proper protection causes an uneven increase in melanin production. Redness and dark spots develop and then lead to discoloration.
HORMONES
Pregnancy and birth control pills cause changes in estrogen and progesterone levels that trigger pigmentation. Hormone therapy also leaves people prone to hyperpigmentation.
AGING
With age, collagen and elastin in the body deplete, and so does the body’s ability to repair itself. Sun spots, liver spots and solar lentigines develop in those over 40. Treatments like dermabrasion or exfoliation cause hyperpigmentation as you get older.
SKIN INJURIES
When rashes and wounds get inflamed, they trigger melanocytes (melanin producing cells) to release excessive pigment granules (melanosomes). These darken and discolor the wounded area and take a long time to fade.
MEDICATIONS
Some medications cause photosensitivity, making your skin burn more in the sunlight. These are antibiotics, tricyclic antidepressants, older antihistamines, griseofulvin, quinine, and acne medications like accutane and retin-A.
