What determines the colour of your skin ?
Melanin is the primary pigment that determines the color of the skin. Melanin is produced by epidermal melanocytes through enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine, a process known as melanogenesis which takes place within specific organelles, melanosomes.
Different types of pigmentation commonly seen:
These are the most common pigmentary disorders predominantly seen in the Indian population.
Melasma
Melasma, an acquired pigmentary disorder is characterized by hyperpigmented brown to grayish brown patches on the face. It could be superficial, deep or mixed.
While the exact cause of melasma is currently unknown, exposure to UV, increased estrogen levels (observed mainly during pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives), genetic predisposition and phototoxic drugs are known to play a major role, other factors like ovarian dysfunction, thyroid and/or liver diseases may also influence melasma severity. The role of UV exposure has been shown to being crucial in its development and exacerbation.
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
PIH is an acquired pigmentary skin disorder. The dark marks on your skin that refuse to go after you get pimples or even a minor injury, is known as PIH. It occurs as a result of an inflammatory reaction. PIH can last from months to years and may significantly impair the quality of life of affected individuals. UV exposure is primarily responsible for the initiation and exacerbation of PIH.
Lentigines
light brown to dark brown spots occurring mainly in sun-exposed areas. They are considered to be a clinical sign of photoaging and their numbers increases with age. The more number of lentigines you have, the longer you have been exposed to sun and you have a higher risk of skin cancer.
Periorbital hyperpigmentation
Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH) also known as dark circles can be genetic, due to shadow effect, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. sun exposure is responsible for aggravation.
What can you do ?
Wear your sunscreen !! include more antioxidants in your diet and also consult your dermatologist. Invest in your skin and you won’t regret it.
For all the latest lifestyle News Click Here
