Types of Pigmentation

Pigmentation refers to the colour of our skin. It is influenced by the presence of melanin, a substance within the body that affects colour. The different amounts of melanin we possess is what determines our colouring, and the vast and varied tones of our skin, hair and eyes. 

Individuals with dark skin tones are more likely to have high concentrations of pigment, while people with fair skin and hair have low levels of melanin. 

Skin pigmentation and melanin synthesis differ from person to person, mostly dictated by genetics and hormones. Other factors include autoimmune conditions, medication and inflammatory skin conditions.

Freckles are extra patches of colouring (or pigment) under your skin. Doctors call them ephelides.

Freckles often show up during childhood, and you may continue to get more until you're in your 20s. They're most common in people with fair skin or red hair, but anyone can have them.

FACTS:

Freckles:

• They are genetic
• They first show up when you’re around 2-3 years old, often after you’ve been in the sun
• They are usually on your arms, chest, face, and neck
• Can be red, dark brown, or light brown
• Can go away as you age

Solar lentigines:

• Are sometimes called age spots or liver spots
• Show up as you get older and are common if you’re 50 or older
• Can be anywhere on your body that gets sun, including areas like your back, chest, face, forearms, hands, and shins
• Don’t fade or disappear
• Can range from light yellow to dark brown in colour
• Show up because of sun exposure and aging

Melasma is a common pigmentation disorder that can be stubborn to treat. It is characterised by darker patches of skin that usually appear on the face and are often symmetrical. Common areas for melasma to appear include the forehead, cheeks, chin and upper lip. 

Melasma is more common in women, and even more common in women with darker skin types. The darker patches of skin are caused by an over stimulation of melanin, which is the pigment that is responsible for our skin colour. There are several known causes for this overstimulation that results in melasma, including: 

• Hormonal changes
• Hormone-based medications
• Sun exposure
• Genetics

Hyperpigmentation can occur when the skin experiences inflammation or injury. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH.

When the skin becomes injured or inflamed, our melanin-producing cells are stimulated to generate higher quantities of pigment. The surplus pigment accumulates in the affected area. Individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI) are more likely to experience PIH, owing to their innately high levels of melanin.