Pigments are coloring substances that are present in both plants and animals. In humans, pigments determine the complexion, shading of the skin, the varying hues of an individual’s skin, eyes, hair, etc. Disorders of pigmentation arise form too much or too little pigment or from inappropriate distribution of pigment. The Indian psyche is still enamored of fair complexions and much emphasis is placed on maintaining or obtaining a clear and fair complexion.
Disorders of pigmentation
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
Hyperpigmentation
These involve conditions where there is an excess of pigment production or retention. These include conditions such as:
- Melanosis—wherein brown patches appear on the face due to hormonal changes and are increased on sun exposure.
- Periorbital melanosis or dark circles under the eye—usually a result of eye strain or stress.
- Freckles—usually dark spots that are due to a Genetic predisposition.
- Photomelanosis—increased deposition of dark pigment following sun exposure, occurring predominantly on the exposed skin of the face, neck, back and hands.
- Sun burn or tan—usually occurring in fair-skinned individuals following excessive sun exposure.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation—following healing of skin lesions or recovery from allergies to cosmetics.
- Nevus or birthmarks.
- Tattoos.
Hypopigmentation
These disorders are characterized by a loss or deficiencies of Melanin pigment. These include:
- Pityriasis alba—a fungal infection causing hypopigmented patches on the face.
- Pityriasis versicolor—a hypopigmented patch with fine scales usually found on the upper body and the face.
- Leprosy—hypopigmented patch with loss or decreased sensation in the affected area.
- Vitiligo—an autoimmune disorder characterized by the lack of Melanin in certain parts of the body resulting in pale patchy-looking skin.
- Secondary leucoderma—usually occurring in response to certain chemical substances, such as glue from bindi, etc.
- Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation—following healing after eczema, psoriasis, etc.
- Nevus depigmentosus—hypopigmented patch present since birth.
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 | | | Prevention of pigmentatory problems
There are a few measures that one can follow to avoid problems resulting in disorders of pigmentation. These include:
- Maintenance of hygiene.
- Regular washing of the face.
- Avoidance of irritant cosmetics.
- Avoiding sharing of cosmetics or articles of personal use.
- A healthy, balanced diet rich in micronutrients.
Treatment
As the main mechanism underlying hyperpigmentation is of increased deposition or production of melanin, treatment aims at removal of Melanin or reduction of Melanin production. Treatment for hypopigmented lesions involves removal of the root cause, treatment of underlying infection, CO2 laser, etc. Consult with your doctor which treatment options are best for you. | |
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