Many things can cause it....My suggestion is to get to the root of the problem first. I have some clients who have had it in hormonal causes and not be pregnant as listed below. That type is called melasma.
Ann Phelps
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Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation means an excess of pigment. There are several types of hyperpigmentation seen in humans:
- freckles
- disease-related hyperpigmentation
- pregnancy-related hyperpigmentation
- enzymatic deficiencies
Freckles are areas where the melanocytes (pigment-making cells) are more active and responsive to UV radiation than in neighboring skin. Freckles tend to be more pronounced in childhood. They are associated with fair hair and skin.
Hyperpigmentation is seen in cases of hyperpituitarism and Addison's disease.
Hyperpigmentation is also sometimes seen in mothers during pregnancy. The increased pigmentation seen in pregnancy is due to the influence of estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Hormonally related hyperpigmentation, such as that occurring in pregnancy, can also show up as a condition called the mask of pregnancy, or melasma. This is a condition in which blotches of pigmentation appear on the face or in sun-exposed areas. Melasma is harmless. The pigment seen in melasma usually goes away within several months of delivery. However, skin lighteners (such as hydroquinone or tretonin) are sometimes used to treat the condition.
Some people may have a deficiency in the liver enzyme that metabolizes carotenes. People with this deficiency who eat large quantities of carrots, peppers, or other yellow/orange vegetables may find that their skin color changes. In particular, their skin may become tinged with yellow or orange pigment.
Hypopigmentation
Hypopigmentation means a deficiency in pigment. Hypopigmentation falls into several categories:
- albinism
- disease-related hypopigmentation
- injury-related hypopigmentation
- vitiligo
- drug- and chemical-related hypopigmentation
Albinism (Albinos)
People who are genetically unable to produce melanin are called albinos. In these individuals, the normal pathways for producing melanin are defective. Usually this defect is due to being homozygous for this autosomal, recessive trait. This means that these people usually have two copies of a particular recessive gene. The skin remains pink or with less pigment than normal throughout life, and the eyes have no pigment. The hair is white or with reduced color. Skin cancers are common in albino individuals who live in sunny climes.
Disease-Related Hypopigmentation
Many inflammatory disorders will result in a temporary pigment loss in the skin. For example, psoriasis can result in a temporary pigment loss.
Injury-Related Hypopigmentation
Traumatic injuries (such as burns or freezing) may actually destroy the melanocytes. In these cases, depigmentation is permanent.
Vitiligo
This condition causes the loss of pigment in areas of skin without any evidence of disease. It is thought to be due to an autoimmune attack on melanocytes. In all races, vitiligo is the major cause of acquired, widespread pigment loss.
Vitiligo appears to be inherited in 30% of patients. In children, repigmentation is common, with melanocytes commonly spreading from hair follicles into surrounding areas. Adults have significantly less repigmentation after their skin lightens. However, some adults do respond to topical corticosteroid therapy.
Vitiligo can occur at any age, however, about 50% of the cases appear between the ages of 10 and 30 years. The incidence of vitiligo is higher in females than in males.
Drug- and Chemical-Related Hypopigmentation
Certain drugs and chemicals can cause hypopigmentation. For example, the skin-lightening agent called hydroquinone can cause strange and permanent loss of color in some individuals. Hydroquinone is available in some over-the-counter (OTC) preparations.
Information obtained from
http://www.skin-information.com/pigmnt.html
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Melasma
An example of hyperpigmentation is melasma (also known as chloasma). This condition is characterized by tan or brown patches, most commonly on the face. Melasma can occur in pregnant women and is often called the "mask of pregnancy;" however, men can also develop this condition. Melasma frequently goes away after pregnancy. It can also be treated with certain prescription creams (such as hydroquinone).
If you have melasma, try to limit your exposure to sunlight. Use a strong sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) at all times, because sunlight will worsen your condition. Sunblocks containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best; although, sunscreens with Parsol 1789 (avobenzone) will also provide good protection.
Melasma: Pigmentation of the face, most commonly on the malar area (the upper cheek), bridge of nose, forehead, and upper lip, that occurs in half of women during pregnancy. Birth control pills can also cause melasma. However, hormone therapy after menopause does not cause the condition. Melasma darkens from sun or any UV exposure. Sunscreens are essential. They should be broad spectrum. A SPF 30 or higher is best. A sunscreen should be worn daily, whether outside or inside. Treatment may also include bleaching creams and prescription creams. Melasma is also known as the "mask of pregnancy."
**** It is very important to work with your doctor on this. Even if you choose to go your own route. If you decide to test your hormones do not do a blood test, go for a saliva (It is the only accurate test.) You can find more information on hormones to help you at
http://www.johnleemd.com
I would also research all the products you choose to use first.
Ann Phelps
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