Understanding More About Skin Pigmentation Conditions: Melasma and Vitiligo
Changes in skin pigmentation occur because the body is over or under-producing melanin. Melanin is what gives your eyes, skin, and hair their color. A higher presence of melanin makes skin darker, whereas less can lighten the skin. Melanin is also responsible for absorbing the sun’s harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays and protecting the skin from damage. Two of the most common skin disorders associated with melanin production are Vitiligo and Melasma. These skin conditions’ factors include genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, and damaged skin.
Vitiligo and Melasma
Vitiligo and Melasma affect the coloration and appearance of a person’s skin. Signs of these conditions may appear in patches or affect the whole body. The severity of Vitiligo and Melasma will vary from person to person. Some individuals may only see small areas of discoloration, while others may have more pronounced patches. As the beauty industry strives to teach women to embrace their unique appearance, models like Winnie Harlow have not only embraced their Vitiligo condition but have showcased her incredible, unique look and true beauty.
Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition in which an individual’s immune system attacks the cells responsible for the skin’s pigmentation. Vitiligo causes white patches to appear on the skin because pigment cells are unable to produce melanin anymore.
Melasma is also referred to as hyperpigmentation, a skin disorder that causes dark patches typical on the facial area. Continued sun exposure to skin showing signs of hyperpigmentation may spread and cause spots on the neck and forearms. Many women who go through increased hormones during pregnancy may experience melasma, often called the “pregnancy mask.” In some cases, these darker spots go away after the pregnancy, but in some cases, a person may want to seek professional guidance and treatment options from a licensed dermatologist
What Are the Causes?
Although the causes of each skin disorder are not known by one hundred percent, some known factors are sun exposure, genetics, hormonal changes, and damaged skin, which can trigger discolored patches to appear on the skin.
Genetics – Vitiligo and Melasma are both suggested to be more likely in those with close blood relatives who have the condition.
Stress – Many report that Vitiligo appears after extreme levels of stress, including sunburns and cuts that break and damage the skin beyond the surface and some viruses that put high stress on the body.
Hormonal Changes—Melasma is much more common in women than men, and those with darker skin tones are also more likely to experience it.
Melasma and Vitiligo are two skin disorders more likely to affect those with genetic connections to others with the condition. Melasma is more common in women, and Vitiligo can affect all genders and races. Autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto’s and alopecia areata, can cause Vitiligo. Stressed and damaged skin caused by autoimmune deficiencies, acne, cuts, and blisters can alter melanin production levels, which change the skin’s pigmentation. Changes in skin pigmentation concerns can be addressed with a licensed dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Treatments for Skin Discolorations
Melasma, triggered often by hormonal changes, may lighten and fade without treatment. However, the number of people that is true for is smaller than those who may feel self-conscious or limited by the appearance of the dark patches that may last indefinitely. The most knowledgeable skincare specialists will tell you that melasma is a challenge to treat and should only be done under the guidance of a licensed and experienced dermatologist. Melasma and Vitiligo have several topical application treatments that can be prescribed and monitored by a professional. When the topical approach doesn’t get a person the results they seek, there are other procedures that may reduce Melasma’s appearance.
Skin appearance is unique and different for every person, which is part of people’s beauty! Although not everyone seeks treatment for Melasma or Vitiligo, there are options available. Topical and oral medications to microdermabrasion and laser therapies – each offers different targeted results with varying timelines. As technology and medical dermatology continue to advance, new treatments will undeniably be available for those with severe cases who want results that can’t be achieved otherwise.
High-rated dermatologists like Dr. Sherrie Straughn of Buckhead Dermatology take the time to listen, hear, and understand every client’s needs and desires when it comes to their skin’s health and appearance. Dr. Straughn works with men and women of all ages to help them overcome challenges with skincare, stay proactive about skin health, including skin cancer screenings, and achieve the results they seek. Experience counts when it comes to treating skin discoloration conditions that can benefit from treatments. Contact Buckhead Dermatology today for a consultation and begin your journey to loving your skin!