Pigmentation is the natural coloring of your skin, determined by the amount of melanin produced. Hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, is an excess of melanin in certain areas, leading to uneven skin tone and darker patches.
Understanding Pigmentation
Pigmentation is a normal process. Your skin's color is determined by the amount and type of melanin produced by melanocytes (specialized skin cells). Factors like genetics, sun exposure, and ethnicity influence your overall skin pigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation: An Excess of Melanin
Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanocytes produce more melanin than usual in specific areas. This results in patches of skin that are noticeably darker than the surrounding skin. Several factors can trigger hyperpigmentation, including:
- Sun exposure: UV radiation from the sun stimulates melanin production.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy (melasma) and other hormonal fluctuations can cause hyperpigmentation.
- Inflammation: Acne, eczema, and other skin conditions can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to hyperpigmentation.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications can increase melanin production.
In short: Pigmentation is the normal process of skin coloring, while hyperpigmentation is an abnormal increase in melanin production resulting in uneven skin tone. It's like the difference between a normally painted wall (pigmentation) and a wall with blotchy, darker paint patches (hyperpigmentation).
Reference incorporated: Pigmentation refers to the colouring of the skin, and hyperpigmentation is the term used to describe areas of uneven pigmentation. This occurs when the skin produces more melanin, which is the pigment responsible for your skin's colour.
