There are two main types of pigmentation disorders which have contrasting causes and symptoms. Hypopigmentation is a loss of pigment concentrated in either one specific area or all over the skin. Certain skin tones (such as African, Mediterranean, and Asian) are more prone to hyperpigmentation - an increase in pigment that can also be generalized or found in a particular part of the body. Hyperpigmentation is usually triggered and further stimulated by sun exposure (UV rays), but other skin conditions contribute to hyperpigmentation as well. The common characteristic of most hyperpigmentation conditions is an excessive amount of melanin, most often concentrated in areas such as the hands and face.
Melasma is one of the manifestations of hyperpigmentation, which appears in form of brown patches. It affects the skin on the face, mostly cheeks, nose, upper lip, and forehead, and it rarely affects men. Exposing skin to the sun can accentuate the darkness of these patches.
Birthmarks appear on the skin at birth, or shortly thereafter. Regardless of the type of birthmark (Macular stains, Port-wine stains, or any other form), it is important for a doctor to examine them. Freckles can also be present on the skin from the early age and are considered hereditary.
Sun or age spots (solar lentigines) resemble freckles but are bigger in size. These mostly appear on fair skin that has been exposed to the sun. These spots seem to be an almost inevitable skin condition for the elderly, hence the name “age spots”.
A decrease in the production of melanocytes (cells containing melanosomes - and melanin) leads to a form of hypopigmentation called vitiligo, which is very rare. The cause of vitiligo is yet to be deeply understood by medical professionals but it is mostly linked to autoimmune disorder.
By contrast, an excessive production of melanin during pregnancy can lead to a condition known as chloasma, commonly referred to as “pregnancy mask”. Similar to other types of hyperpigmentation, exposing the affected area to sun can make chloasma appear more prominent.
Among all types of pigmentation, genetic factors cannot be altered or avoided. However, there are ways to prevent and manage skin conditions from becoming more severe. The underlying causes of skin pigmentation disorders which aren’t hereditary are UV exposure, medication (such as contraceptive medication), acne, as well as vitamin deficiency - especially when it comes to vitamin C. In fact, vitamin C has a vital role when it comes to both preventing and treating pigmentation issues. Therefore, vitamin C is recommended daily in its most effective form offering the highest level of bioavailability. Amandean's Liposomal Vitamin C offers an ideal delivery mechanism to ensure maximum absorption and help to manage pigmentation issues.
Liposomal Vitamin C & The Skin