Causes of pigmentation
Various factors can trigger hyperpigmentation.
SUN DAMAGE
This is a very common trigger of hyperpigmentation. Freckles, age spots and other darkened skin patches can become more pronounced when exposed to the sun. This happens because melanin absorbs the energy of the sun’s harmful UV rays to protect the skin from damage. Sunbeds are a very big contributor to this.
HORMONAL INFLUENCES
This often leads to hyperpigmentation called “melasma” or “chloasma”. For example, pregnancy can trigger the overproduction of melanin on the face. Women who take contraceptive medication may also develop hyperpigmentation.
POST-INFLAMMATORY HYPERPIGMENTATION (PIH)
Inflammation caused by trauma to the skin, such as acne, may stimulate the skin to overproduce pigment. This can then appear as darker spots or patches on the affected area. This may occur in all skin types, however it is more prevalent in darker skins.