Uneven skin tone or discolouration (skin pigmentation) is a common condition that makes certain areas of your skin darker—pigmentation caused by sun damage, inflammation, skin disorder, or hormonal fluctuations.
Types of common skin pigmentations:
- Freckles: It is the most common type of pigmentation. They develop after repeated sun exposure and are particularly prevalent in people with fairer skin complexion.
- Solar Lentigo: Also known as sun spots. They appear anywhere on the body caused by UV rays from sun exposure. This pigmentation must be monitored as it can become skin cancer.
- Melasma: This pigmentation appears on the face as larger tan or brown patches with an indistinct border, often triggered by hormonal changes. Conditions can get worse by excessive sun exposure, medication, stress, and pregnancy.
- Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): PIH often occurs after skin inflammation or injury, leading to discolouration due to excessive melanin production. It is commonly caused by acne, trauma, and other skin condition such as eczema, skin infection, etc.