Difference between hyperpigmentation and melasma

Skin discolouration can be concerning, especially when you’re unsure about the cause or how to treat it. When it comes to skin concerns, hyperpigmentation and melasma are two terms that are often mentioned together. Both conditions involve changes in skin colour, leading to dark spots or patches on the skin. Both involve darkening of the skin, but their causes, appearances, and treatments differ. Understanding these differences is essential for effective management and treatment.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is the term used to describe the darkening of the skin caused by an excess of melanin, the pigment responsible for giving our skin, hair, and eyes their colour. This condition can appear as small spots or patches and can affect any part of the body. It’s generally harmless but can be a cosmetic concern for many.

Types of Hyperpigmentation: 

1. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): 

This type appears after a skin injury or inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or burn. The skin reacts by creating extra melanin in the affected area, resulting in dark patches.

2. Sun-induced Hyperpigmentation: 

Overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause the skin to create more melanin as a means of protection. This can cause sunspots or age spots, especially on regions of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, or shoulders.

3. Freckles: 

These little brown spots are a common kind of hyperpigmentation, especially among the ones with fair complexions. 日晒 can make freckles appear more noticeable.

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that appears as brown or greyish-brown patches, usually on the face. It’s most commonly found on the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, and above the upper lip.

Types of Melasma:

Melasma is classified into three primary types:

1. Epidermal Melasma: 

2. Dermal Melasma: 

3. Mixed Melasma:

Epidermal affects the skin’s surface layer (the epidermis) and can be identified by its dark brown colour and well-defined borders.

Dermal Melasma penetrates deeper into the skin (the dermis) and appears as light brown or bluish-grey spots with less clear borders.

Mixed Melasma as the name suggests, this type affects both the epidermis and the dermis, resulting in dark and light spots.

Key differences between hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Melasma and hyperpigmentation are both associated with variations in skin tone; however, they differ significantly in a few significant manners. You need to understand the details regarding these conditions.

Causes:

Sun exposure, skin injuries, and certain drugs are all potential causes of hyperpigmentation. Whereas Melasma is caused mostly by hormonal changes, though sun exposure can worsen the condition.

Appearance:

Hyperpigmentation frequently appears as small, dark spots on the skin, similar to age spots or freckles. Melasma, on the other hand, appears as bigger, blotchy patches that are usually symmetrical on the face.

Affected places:

Hyperpigmentation can occur anywhere on the body; however, it is most frequent in places exposed to sunlight. Melasma primarily affects the face, but it can also appear on the neck and forearms.

Treatment:

While both conditions can be treated with sun protection and topical treatment, melasma can require more specialised treatments due to its hormonal basis.

In conclusion, while hyperpigmentation and melasma both result in skin discolouration, they differ in their causes, appearance, and treatment methods. For healthy, glowing skin, proper treatment is required. Make sure you are taking Laser treatments for these from the experts and with counselling. 

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