The Origins Of Hyperpigmentation

From our teens to our latter years in life, hyper-pigmentation of the skin affects us all. Over time our skin incurs exposure from the many natural elements that we encounter on a daily basis, most specifically the sun. But in the case of hyper-pigmentation, the sun is not the only trigger that can cause changes within the natural pigment of our skin.

The majority of the skin cells within the epidermis form a protective layer, but about every eighth cell is a melanocyte cell, that is responsible for the production of melanin. Melanin is produced in the lower levels of the skin, and the pigmentation process resembles that of an assembly line.

First a trigger occurs—the sun, inflammation, injury or hormones—sends a signal to the melanin-stimulating hormones. After this message is sent, the enzyme tyrosinase is activated. Once tyrosinase is signaled, the melanocyte cell receives a message to produce pigment. The melanocytes make melanin and package them into little bundles known as melanosomes. The cells then disperse pigment upward through the dermis, resulting in hyperpigmentation. Because the body can’t constantly work to divide the pigment properly, it gets deposited in clumps that show up as spots and discoloration. As the skin ages, the cycle is less controlled (sun exposure and hormonal changes interrupt it), and the steady distribution of melanin becomes more dispersed. As excess melanin is produced, hyperpigmentation forms, creating deposits of color that stay indefinitely unless treated. Conditions such as Melasma, Sun and Age Spots can all be effectively treated by lasers and have proven to be successful in helping to relieve and eliminate these types of skin conditions.

Here are some before and after examples:

Sun & Age Spots