Pigmentation Disorder
Pigmentation disorders are characterized by discoloration of the skin complexion due to the overproduction or insufficiency of melanin. Types of pigmentation disorders are categorized into two categories: hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is the excessive darkening of the skin due to overproduction of melanin. Hypopigmentation is a loss of color on the skin due to lack of melanin production.
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Liver Spots
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Liver spots, also known as age spots, is a form of hyperpigmentation usually occurring on the hands and face. This condition is characterized by darkened patches on the hands and face due to unprotected sun exposure over long periods of time.
Melasma
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Melasma, another form of hyperpigmentation, is characterized by large darkened patches of skin on the face, trunk and limbs. Contributing factors to this condition include hormonal changes due to pregnancy, medication, maturation, etc.
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Freckles (Disambiguation)
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When some melanocytes produce more melanin than others, this results in an uneven distribution of pigment to the skin's top layers, which gives the appearance of small spots of increased pigmentation known as freckles. Contributing factors are genetics and hormonal changes.
Albinism
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Albinism is a form of hypopigmentation in which the skin, hair and eyes are without any pigment or coloring due to inability to produce melanin. This condition is inherited and can affect individuals of any race.
Vitiligo
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Vitiligo is a form of hypopigmentation in which the skin loses pigmentation. This condition is inherited and begins in small patches on the hands and face which spreads and becomes larger over time.
Treatments for Hyperpigmentation and Hypopigmentation
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Treatment for hyperpigmentation disorders work to lighten the darkened areas of the skin to match the lighter complexion of the unaffected areas. Treatments include chemical peels, topical phenol treatments, over-the-counter bleaching creams, cryosurgery, dermabrasion and laser treatment.
Treatments for hypopigmentation are more concerned with protecting the affected areas with topical treatments for ultraviolet protection. Opaque cover-up creams are commonly used, for both forms of pigmentation disorders, as a temporary and immediate solution. The treatment method is determined by the severity of the condition.
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