What is pigmented skin?

Skin pigmentation occurs when the skin produces less or more melanin (a pigment that gives skin its color) than the normal. As a result, there may be discolored patches on the skin that may be lighter or darker than the normal surrounding skin. Skin pigmentation is a common condition and affects people of all skin types.

What are the causes of pigmented skin?

Following are few of the causes for pigmented skin:

• Sun exposure
• Skin inflammation
• Melasma
• Reaction to drug use
• Medical condition such as Addison’s disease, hemochromatosis

What are the most affected areas of the body from Skin Pigmentation?

The most affected areas are:

• Skin folds
• Lips
• Elbow and knees
• Knuckles
• Toes
• Inside of the cheeks

How can pigmented skin be diagnosed?

The doctor will examine the pigmented skin and identify the type and cause of it. A small sample of skin could be taken for a biopsy to determine the cause of skin pigmentation. The types of pigmented skin can also be diagnosed with a special light called wood’s light. 

How to get rid of pigmented skin?

To prevent pigmented skin or to prevent it from making more prominent:

• Exposure to the sun should be avoided
• Picking of the skin should be avoided

Treatment options are 

• Topical creams - it has lightening ingredients such as azelaic acid, corticosteroids, hydroquinone, kojic acid, retinoids, vitamin C.
• Cosmetic procedures - such as laser therapy, intense pulsed light, chemical peels, microdermabrasion.

What are the home remedies for pigmented skin?

The appearance of pigmented skin can be decreased even by using few home remedies such as rubbing:

• Aloe veraLicorice - it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin whitening effects
• Green tea - also helps to lighten up the skin as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.