Injury or Trauma: Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a condition that occurs when the skin produces excess melanin in response to injury or trauma. This can result in the development of dark spots on the affected area. Various factors, such as burns, deep cystic acne, dermatitis, lupus infection, allergic reactions, or eczema, can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Fortunately, in most cases, these dark spots are temporary and gradually fade away over the course of several months or even years, even without any specific treatment. However, individuals with darker skin types, including African American, Asian, Native American, Hispanic, or Middle Eastern ethnicity, may experience more pronounced post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Understanding Hormones and Melasma
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by the presence of darkened brown patches, typically found on the cheeks and forehead. This condition is primarily caused by a combination of excessive sunlight exposure and an increase in estrogen and progesterone hormone levels. It is more prevalent in women with darker skin tones who are either taking birth control pills or are pregnant. These dark patches tend to fade during the winter months but may reappear in the spring. However, they usually disappear after pregnancy or when the woman ceases the use of birth control medications.
In addition to birth control and pregnancy, melasma can also be triggered in individuals with Addison’s disease. This medical condition inhibits the production of certain hormones, leading to the development of melasma hyperpigmentation.