Pigmentation is a general term for the color of your skin, which is determined by the amount of melanin present. Melasma, on the other hand, is a specific type of hyperpigmentation, meaning it is characterized by darker patches of skin.
While both pigmentation and melasma can cause unwanted skin discoloration, melasma is differentiated from other forms of hyperpigmentation by its cause. Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills. It is also exacerbated by sun exposure.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Pigmentation: General term for skin color.
- Hyperpigmentation: Any condition causing darker patches of skin.
- Melasma: A type of hyperpigmentation specifically caused by hormonal changes and worsened by sun exposure.
