Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : November 1, 2015 8:45 AM IST
The sight of even a single pimple is enough to leave us petrified. And then, we leave no stone unturned to get rid of it either by natural remedies or through cosmetic procedures. But what about dark skin patches on your thighs and discolouration of your hands? Right from sun exposure to using too many cosmetics, skin discoloration can be caused due to your daily activities.
According to Dr Rohit Batra, Dermatologist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, Skin discolouration can be divided into hyper-pigmentation and hypo-pigmentation. Hyper-pigmentation means darkening of the skin tone, which can be caused due to excessive sun exposure or bleaching or use of beauty products. Whereas, hypo-pigmentation means your skin tone is slightly lighter than the normal tone. Although the role of melanin, a hormone that is responsible for skin colouration, is crucial for maintaining normal skin tone, skin discolouration can be caused due to various factors. Here are the common causes you need to be aware of.
Causes of hyperpigmentation
Sun exposure: The most common cause of skin darkening or tanning is excessive exposure to sun. This doesn t mean you shouldn t go out in sun or explore beaches, but don t forget to apply sunscreen to prevent getting tanned. It can also trigger a skin condition known as melasma that causes dark brown and grey patches on the face, neck and forearms. Here are home remedies to get rid of the tan.
Beauty products: Not many are aware of the fact that cosmetics like hair colouring or make-up products might cause hyperpigmentation. Because, when you apply hair colours, the chemicals present in these products leaches into the skin, leaving it damaged and darkened. To avoid this, you can opt for herbal beauty products or expert recommended skin products.
Bleaching/Waxing: Bleaching too often not only reacts with your skin but also causes pigmentation on the skin (in some cases). As these products contain harsh chemicals, it is advised to go for waxing or bleaching occasionally. And if possible opt for natural bleaches or herbal products. Also, find out about 10 shocking causes of skin pigmentation.
Age: As you age, there are many changes that happen and one such change is the discoloration of skin. It is quite common in older adults to suffer from hyperpigmentation that can be caused due to various factors.
Diseases: You can have skin darkening or pigmentation if you suffer from diabetes, thyroid, liver disease or kidney disease. People suffering from diabetes usually have darkening of underarms due to changes in the metabolism, Also, if you are overweight then you are more likely to have pigmentation in the neck, body folds or underarm. This is termed to be acanthosis nigricans that should not be ignored. In the case of people suffering from kidney disease, skin pigmentation can occur all over the body.
Medications: Hyperpigmentation can also be caused due to medications like oral contraceptives and anti-tuberculosis drugs. Even, hormonal imbalance in the body can trigger skin darkening, increasing your risk of pigmentation.
Toxicity: In rare cases, even metal toxicity can lead to hyperpigmentation of the skin. This is usually attributed to excess exposure to lead or silver. So if you are exposed to these metals on a daily basis (due to occupation) it is better to get examined by a dermatologist.
Causes of hypo-pigmentation
Pityriasis alba: Most people think that lack of calcium in the body leads to pityriasis alba. But contrary to popular belief, the exact cause of this condition is still unknown. The condition that manifests as dry and pale patches on the face is common in children and young adults. You can use a moisturiser to deal with the condition.
Sun exposure: Wondering how sun exposure can lead to the lightening of the skin? In some cases, sun exposure can lead to hypopigmentation in kids (tanning, on the other hand, is seen in adults)
Vitiligo: Manifested as white patches on the skin, vitiligo is a non-contagious skin condition. While it can be due to genetic factors, in most cases ans is termed to be an autoimmune disorder or malfunctioning of WBCs (white blood cells). It can be treated with the help of ointments or through a surgical process. For more information on vitiligo, click on the link.
Use of steroids: It is a known fact that use of any products in excess is not good for health. And so is excessive use of steroids (commonly used to bulk up). So if you observe any changes in your skin, it is wise to visit a dermatologist at the earliest.
Other factors that can cause both hyper-pigmentation and hypo-pigmentation are birthmarks, sun allergy and skin burns.
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