What is Skin Pigmentation?

The color of your skin is determined by the melanin or pigment in the skin, be it yellow, dark brown or black. Melanin is responsible for imparting color to your skin, hair and iris of the eyes. Levels of melanin depend on race and amount of sunlight exposure. Melanin production increases with exposure to the skin so as to protect the skin against harmful ultraviolet rays.

Skin pigmentation disorders occur as a result of the body producing either too much or too little melanin. Skin pigmentation creates a darker or lighter skin tone that may be blotchy and uneven. Causes of skin pigmentation can range from auto immune conditions to drug reactions or genetic inheritance. Sun damage is probably the leading cause of skin pigmentation problems. Other factors include drug reactions, hormonal changes, genetic factors and medications.