Pigmentary Changes in the Skin: Diagnosis and Management
Pigmentary changes in the skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, sun damage, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. These changes can manifest as increased skin pigmentation or decreased skin pigmentation and can range from benign to potentially harmful. Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including sun damage, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. Melasma, also known as "the mask of pregnancy," is a common form of hyperpigmentation that affects women during pregnancy or while taking hormonal contraceptives. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is another common form of hyperpigmentation that can occur as a result of an injury or inflammation to the skin, such as acne or eczema. Hypopigmentation is a condition characterized by a loss of skin color. Vitiligo is a common form of hypopigmentation caused by the destruction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing m...