Excessive sun exposure, ageing, genetics, body hormone changes, medications, acne vulgaris or pregnancy can cause pigmentation and darkening of the skin. Pigmentation occurs when skin produces an excess amount of melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives skin its colour and is produced by the skin cells called melanocytes.

The types of hyperpigmentation

There are several types of hyperpigmentation, the common ones being melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Melasma: It is thought that hormonal fluctuations are the cause of melasma, which might appear during pregnancy. Although hyperpigmented areas can occur anywhere on the body, the stomach and face are the most common places for them to do so.
• Sunspots: Sunspots are prevalent and are also referred to as liver spots or solar lentigines. They are associated with prolonged overexposure to sunlight. On skin exposed to the sun, such as the hands and face, they typically manifest as spots.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Skin damage or inflammation is the cause of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Acne is a common cause of this kind.

What are the solutions?

There are a variety of waysthat you can prevent hyperpigmentation, such as wearing spf 30 and above sunscreen, taking oral suncreeen, avoiding direct harsh sunlight, and blocking the sunlight with hats and umbrellas. However, there are multiple non-surgical pigment lightening and removal methods are available which can provide fast and visible results. Consult our doctors at Ageless today if you are suffering from stubborn pigmented lesions, age spots, acnes and uneven skin tone or are looking at removing birthmarks and unwanted tattoos.