Causes and Treatments for Skin Pigmentation

Causes and Treatments for Skin Pigmentation

Skin pigmentation can take on many different forms, and the causes are generally unknown. What is known, however, is that skin pigmentation generally occurs as a result of too much, or not enough, melanin in the skin. Skin pigmentation, although not a medical issue, can be distressing for the individual and may affect his or her overall self esteem.

Skin pigmentation may be caused by sun exposure, hormone levels or even a genetic predisposition. For example, many women experience skin pigmentation during pregnancy or while they are taking birth control pills. Some types of medication may cause skin pigmentation, and injuries to the skin may also cause skin discoloration.

Because skin pigmentation may be caused by a variety of factors, each case may be treated differently. Individuals with skin pigmentation can all help prevent skin discoloration by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, by removing dead skin cells through exfoliation and by taking a multivitamin.

Simply staying out of the sun, and wearing a good sunscreen, along with protective clothing, often goes a long way when treating skin pigmentation.

For those that are unable to control their skin pigmentation, there are different types of skin therapies that may be used by dermatologists. Microdermabrasion, for example, may be used to effectively exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of skin discoloration. Treatments other than skin pigmentation removal may involve laser therapy and acid peels, both of which are designed to remove dead skin cells and make the appearance of the skin discoloration less noticeable. Many people may benefit from these types of services, although they should all be performed by a qualified and licensed dermatologist.