Skin is the largest organ of the body. It is made up of two layers the upper epidermis and the lower dermis. The epidermis and the dermis are further divided into layers.

The lower most layer of the epidermis is known as the basal layer and it contains organelles called melanosomes. These melanosomes contain cells called melanocytes which produce a pigment called melanin. The colour of the skin depends mainly on this melanin and the amount of melanin present in the other layers of the epidermis. The thickness of the epidermis and the vascularity of the epidermis are other factors affecting the colour of the skin.

Skin pigmentation disorders occur because the body produces either too much or too little melanin, a pigment that creates hair, skin, and eye colour.

Pigmentation can occur in people of all races. Some disorders such as albinism (which effects one out of every 17,000 people) are rare. Others such as age spots are very common.

Different types of pigmentation problems

Albinism

An inherited condition that causes a lack of pigment. People with albinism typically have light skin, white or pale yellow hair and light blue or gray eyes.

Hypopigmentation

A skin condition that occurs when the body has too little melanin or pigment.

Hyperpigmentation

A skin condition that occurs when the body has too much melanin or pigment.

Lichen Simplex chronicus

A skin disorder with severe itching that causes thick, dark patches of skin to develop.

Vitiligo

A skin disorder that creates smooth, depigmented white spots on the skin.

Lamellar

Also called fish scale disease this inherited condition is characterised by darkened, scaly, dry patches of skin.

Melasma

A dark mask-like discolorisation that covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose.

Freckles and lengintines

These are tiny black spots on the face and are genetic in origin.

Photomelanosis

This is increased pigmentation due to sun exposure. The pigmentation occurs on exposed skin commonly on the face, neck and back. The pigmentation may be patchy or as diffused darkening of the exposed skin.

Prevention

In most cases doctors will recommend using sunscreen and avoiding sun exposure.

Treatment

Chemical peel

Electrical Stimulation of the skin

Iontophoresis

Intense Pulse Light

LED

Laser Surgery

Microdermabrasion

Creams