Although some skin pigmentation can be thought of as natural, other differences are actual abnormalities of the usual skin color.
Some skin pigmentation disorders are harmless and present at birth. These common abnormalities of the skin are known as birthmarks.
In contrast, other skin pigmentation disorders can be a result of skin damage, or in some cases, skin cancer, which is a much more serious issue.
This content explores variants in skin pigmentation, the causes of this condition, the harmful aspects of this condition, and the treatment and prevention.
Page Contents
What is a Skin Pigmentation Disorder?
Skin color is due to the pigment in the skin. A disorder of skin color is due to the lack of pigmentation. The agent responsible for this pigmentation of the skin is melanin.
The amount of melanin, as well as the type of melanin in the skin cells, determines the skin color of the individual. Decreased level of melanin is what leads to these skin color abnormalities.
Melanin is a pigment that gives our skin, hair, eyes, and nails their color. Melanin does help protect our skin from sun damage by the sun's UV rays, but UV rays can still cause skin damage. In order to prevent the harmful effects of UV light, sunscreen must be applied to the skin for protection.
So, what are the factors that cause such melanin discrepancies? It’s often a result of hormonal changes, heredity, sun exposure, or skin damage.
Skin pigmentation disorders can range from being harmless to those which are much more serious. Some of the types of skin pigment disorders are painless, and others are painful.
Types of Skin Pigmentation Disorders
When discussing the types of skin color disorders, there are three broad categories.
Those categories are as follows: Birthmarks, Pigmentation Disorders, and Medical Conditions.
Birthmarks
These flat or slightly raised skin discolorations are appropriately named as they predominantly appear during birth or right after birth.
While the majority of birthmarks are harmless, some can be a health risk.
Examples of the most common birthmarks are:
- Moles
- Salmon Patches
- Port-Wine Stains
- Hemangiomas
- Mongolian Spots
Birthmarks can come in many forms, shapes, and sizes, and they vary largely in symmetry, color, diameter, elevation, and size.
Pigmentation Disorders
Pigmentation disorders encompass all scenarios of skin discolorations and abnormalities. These disorders also vary in shape, size, extensive nature of the condition.
The Three Most Common Pigmentation Disorders:
Vitiligo:
Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by patches of skin that lose their color.
These areas can be small or cover the entire body.
Melasma:
Melasma is a skin condition that causes patches of brown or greyish-brown pigment to appear on the face, typically on the forehead, upper lip, or chin.
It can happen to anyone at any age. And while it often occurs in darker-skinned people, it can affect people of any skin color.
Albinism:
Albinism is a condition that inhibits the production of melanin. People who have this condition will have pale-colored skin and be at high risk of sun damage when outdoors. The lack of melanin in this condition can sometimes lead to poor eyesight.
Some with albinism may develop small amounts of melanin production, which can lead to some pigmentation with age.
Medical Conditions
The final category of pigmentation disorders are those that are caused by medical conditions.
Some conditions that can cause skin abnormalities:
- Skin Infections
- Skin Rashes
- Skin Cancers
- Lupus
- Undiagnosed Diabetes
Some of these medical conditions lead to skin pigmentation disorders by skin injury or infection. Others will instigate an autoimmune response that results in skin discoloration. These vary widely in the nature of the condition.
Treatments Of Skin Pigment Disorders
Skin discoloration or abnormalities brought about by medical conditions are likely to need more serious medical attention and treatment, while birthmarks, for example, likely need little to no attention or treatment. Specific treatments can vary from simple sunscreen use to more extensive surgery.
Some examples of treatment include:
- Topical Ointments
- Autoimmune Therapy Medication
- Surgical excision or scar revision
- UV Light Therapy
- Sunscreen and Protective Gear (long-sleeve shirts, hats, sunglasses, etc.)
- Laser Treatment and Removal
Evaluation by a dermatologist is the best recommendation to identify the condition and receive the best possible treatment.
Final Thoughts
Skin discoloration and pigmentation disorders are abundant in variety. Some of these disorders can be harmless, while others require more serious attention.
A visit to the dermatologist will help you choose the best possible treatment plan.
Last Updated : October, 21st 2021
Note: This content has been reviewed by a medical doctor
Debby Lee is the main author and founder of Mylighterskin.com
She is a full-time freelance writer and website manager, with over ten years of experience. She is an expert writer in the areas of health and beauty, with a special interest in skincare.
