Uneven Pigmentation

Uneven pigmentation is a common problem and can have a number of causes sometimes appearing as people age and sometimes people are born with it. Pigmentation can be caused by environmental stress, excessive UV exposure and as a result of an over production of melanin which clumps together in cells. Sometimes there is a continued increase in melanin production and a slowing down in melanin dispersion, which highlights the difference between pigmented and normal skin areas. Vitiligo is the reverse of this, is a disorder in which patches of white skin appear on various parts of the body. The skin is white because the cells responsible for producing brown pigment have disappeared.

What can we do?

The best way of preventing uneven pigmentation is to avoid sun exposure in the middle of the day and use a broad spectrum sun block when we are outdoors. This will also reduce the appearance of age spots that are not really the product of getting older, but appear as a result of accumulative sun damage done in the past. Pigmentation can sometimes be hormonal and appear in pregnancy, when taking oral contraceptives or entering menopause and sometimes we are just genetically disposed to have problems with excessive pigmentation.  Pigmentation can also be caused by certain medications as an unwanted side effect or as a result of damage to the skin such as bites, rashes or acne type blemishes.

What can we do?

• Follow a good basic skin care routine to maintain skin in the best condition.
• Always use a sun block when outdoors not just when the sun is out.
• Use a sun block that has UVA and UVB broad spectrum protection.
• Gentle exfoliation will allow new cells to surface where pigmentation is temporary.
• Ask your doctor if any medications could be contributing to the problem.
• If the pigmentation is severe, medical procedures such as laser and peels could be helpful but be sure to find an experienced and reputable practitioner.
• Including vitamins A and E in the diet will help even out skin tone.
• Use of skin care products high in vitamins A C and E and high in antioxidants can also help even out skin tone.

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