The hormone responsible for pigmentation is melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). MSH triggers melanocytes, which are cells in the skin that produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color.
MSH levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including:
- Pregnancy: Increased MSH levels during pregnancy often cause skin darkening, particularly around the nipples, face, and abdomen.
- Birth control pills: Hormonal contraceptives can also lead to increased MSH levels and hyperpigmentation.
- UV exposure: Sunlight stimulates the production of MSH, which in turn increases melanin production, leading to tanning.
While MSH is the primary hormone involved in pigmentation, other hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can also influence pigmentation. For example, estrogen can play a role in the development of melasma, a condition that causes brown patches on the skin, often during pregnancy.
It's important to note that the connection between hormones and pigmentation is complex and can vary from person to person.
