Pigmentation is the natural coloring of your skin, determined by the amount of melanin your body produces. Hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, is an increase in melanin production in specific areas, resulting in patches of darker skin. Think of pigmentation as the overall skin tone, while hyperpigmentation is an unevenness or excess in that coloring.
Understanding Pigmentation
Pigmentation is a normal process. Everyone has varying degrees of pigmentation based on genetics, ethnicity, and sun exposure. It's the baseline color of your skin.
Understanding Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is characterized by dark spots or patches on the skin. It's an abnormal increase in melanin, leading to uneven skin tone. Several factors can trigger hyperpigmentation, including:
- Sun exposure: UV rays stimulate extra melanin production.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy (melasma) or hormonal imbalances can cause hyperpigmentation.
- Inflammation: Acne, eczema, or other skin injuries can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Genetics: A predisposition to hyperpigmentation can be inherited.
Example: Someone with naturally light skin (normal pigmentation) might develop dark spots (hyperpigmentation) due to sun damage.
In short: Pigmentation is the normal skin color, while hyperpigmentation is an abnormal increase in the skin's color in specific areas. As stated in the reference, “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.”
