Pigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a result of overactive melanocytes.
The excess melanin(pigment) produced by these overactive melanocytes
causes darker areas of skin.​
Some factors that may contribute to production of excess melanin are:
​
​​​
​
​
insert image
here
Genetics such as your freckles which are inherited and in most cases harmless, however can become more noticeable if not protected from the sun. Freckles generally fade with reduced sun exposure.
​
Sun Exposure causes our skin to go into overdrive to protect itself by making more melanin. When its not created evenly, we end up with patchy pigmented skin.
​
Hormonal changes such as the production of more estrogen and progesterone are said to trigger an increase in melanin. this This is referred to as Melasma, patches of brown skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, chin and nose.
Other changes such as stress are believed to also cause Melasma due to an increase of the hormone cortisol. An increase in cortisol could trigger melasma.​​​
There are several treatments and products that can help with pigmentation.
One option is to use topical creams or serums that contain ingredients like hydroquinone, retinol, or vitamin C, which can help lighten pigmented areas over time.
