Hyper Pigmentation - Things You Should Be Aware Of!

Every girl dreams of blemish-free skin that glows and can remain youthful forever. However, this remains a dream for many. Most people are unhappy with their skin as they combat various common issues such as dark spots, hyperpigmentation, etc. 

The skin has a pigment known as melanin in the underlying layers, which gives our skin its color. Greater the amount of melanin, darker is a person’s complexion. Hyperpigmentation is when there are some areas of the skin that are darker than the other. This is not just an aesthetic issue but also an issue that can affect a person’s morale and self-esteem.

Read on to know some of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation and ways to manage them: 

1. Acne scars: While every girl has to go through teenage years with hormone surges and cheeks adorned with pimples, for some, the trauma does not seem to end with teenage. People who suffer from acne even in their 20s and 30s will have acne marks which can be darker than their natural skin tone. Acne scars can be treated by a combination of topical creams, laser, and changes in diet to reduce the further incidence of acne. 
2. Sun exposure: There is no escape from the sun; however, the exposure can be reduced as most skin problems are caused by excessive unprotected exposure to the sun. From sunburn to melasma to melanomas, hyperpigmentation is the first indication of sun damage and can even be cancerous. It is essential to adequately protect from the sun including the use of sunglasses, sunscreen, long sleeves, scarf, and a cap or hat. 
3. Dermatitis: Skin infection, most commonly caused by fungal infections, can also be present as darker areas on the skin that start off as small patches and then increase in size. Some dermatitis conditions are autoimmune but present as dark patches that gradually increase in size and shape and progress to cover various parts of the body. 
4. Skin cancers: Melanomas are more common in white skin and brown and black skin types are relatively protected from this particular type of cancer due to the presence of a pigment called 'melanin' which is responsible for the specific complexion. While acne is treatable, but starting a good skin care regimen early on in life has its benefits. Avoid excessive use of chemicals, eat healthy and fresh, avoid excessive oils and junk food, and see your skin change.
5. Freckles: These are caused by clusters of melanin. These get accumulated or concentrated in clusters on being exposed to sunrays.
6. Melasma: This is usually found in pregnant women. It occurs due to the over-activation of melanocytes as there is a hormonal imbalance.
7. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: This refers to inflammation as a result of inflammation caused by trauma.

Consult your dermatologist to know the exact reason for pigmentation and the best way to treat it.