Skin Pigmentation Problems in Women

Production of melanin in the body varies as per the genetic make-up. Vitiligo and melasma are two commonly occurring pigmentation problems occurring in women. Let us try to understand these.

Vitiligo

It is occurrence of white symmetrical patches on the skin. The exact cause of this pigmentation condition is not clearly understood but scientists believe that certain inherited genes are responsible for this autoimmune disorder.

Symptoms of vitiligo appear as white patches and are visible on groin region, elbows, knees, hands, face and armpits. The hair may start becoming white.

Initial treatment involves topical application of steroidal ointments which help in preventing further loss of the pigment. In case of significant loss of the pigment, the person can be exposed to UVB in a controlled environment. This sunlight exposure of the narrowband UVB may help in bringing back the pigmentation.

A rare choice of treatment of vitiligo is depigmentation. In this, the rest of the melanin pigmentation is removed from the skin to match with the remaining skin shade.

In case the trouble is not so severe, the person can hide the patches using camouflage make-up.

Melasma

Melasma is appearance of brown pigmentation on different areas of the face. They occur when the cells lying beneath the skin start to produce excess melanin. The spots are irregular and occur only on the face.

Melasma is common to occur to pregnant women and once the baby is born these spots disappear on their own. During pregnancy, they appear on upper lip, forehead, chin and cheeks. The pigmentation problem may even occur as a result of a cosmetic reaction. Contraceptive pills are also said to cause melasma.

Bleaching is a common remedy to deal with the brown spots. The dermatologist may prescribe retinoids or a drug containing azelaic acid to reduce the pigmentation. Chemical peeling is another safe option but you will need to be regular with it since the spots may re-appear.

Home remedies too work well for melasma. Mix honey and lemon juice in equal quantities and apply liberally on the spots. This remedy acts like a natural bleach and helps in instant lightening of the brown spots.

Juice of potato too works well on the spots.