Types of skin pigmentation and ways to deal with it

Pigmentation on the skin can be caused due to a number of reasons. They can be defined as light and dark spots can make your skin complexion appear uneven and are never pleasant. There are two types of pigmentation – first is hyperpigmentation which are spots or patches on the skin which are darker that the actual skin color and the second is hypopigmentation which are spots or patches that are lighter than the actual skin color. The condition of hyperpigmentation is common and predominant and the most common types of pigmentation seen on the skin is tanning, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or Melasma. Here we will be discussing about ways you could get rid of such pigmentation.

1. Tanning – Tanning to the skin is caused due to the damage done by UVA and UVB rays of the sun. The UVA rays causes darkening of the skin but lasts just for a few days. But the darkening caused by the UVB rays can last for months. The skin needs to be nourished and moisturized with products that contain Vitamin C, anti-oxidants, vitamin E and lactic acid. Alternatively you can also exfoliate your face with AHA (not above 15 percent) once in a week.
2. PIH  – This kind of pigmentation happens after an infection or an injury to the skin. This happens when the skin begins to produce extra melanin caused due to the injury or the infection. It is mostly caused by acne which is why it is important to control  the condition and can be done with the help of salicylic acid. Here you need to first bring your acne under control and then treat PIH with the help of OTC topical medications, creams or serums.
3. Melasma – Another common condition of the skin where dark patches can be seen on the cheekbones, jawline or sometimes on the forehead. This happens due to the over-production of melanocytes also known as pigmentation cells. To remain protected from such a condition, one has to use a good sunscreen lotion with a minimum SPF 30 along with physical protection like hats, scarfs and caps.

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