Diffuse Pigmentation: More Than Just Darker Skin

Diffuse pigmentation may be one of the more common problems we see here at Britegums, but that doesn’t mean that it’s any less frustrating or embarrassing. It refers to the range of skin discoloration, rather than one specific spot, making it trickier to treat and potentially recurring. Here’s what you need to know about diffuse pigmentation and how we can help improve your gum health and fix your diffuse pigmentation issues in Long Island, NY.

What Are The Types Of Diffuse Pigmentation?

There are many types of diffuse pigmentation, with varying causes. Some general measures such as photoprotection (avoidance of sun exposure and the use of broad-spectrum sunscreens) and the avoidance of known triggers always help, but some types may require treatment. One example is hyperpigmented skin lesions on the gingival mucosa which can be cause by a number of factors including lichen planus, erythema migrans, Behçet’s disease, or chemical injury. Treatment is mostly cause specific, but since these lesions usually present in localize areas it can be treate topically with bleaching agents such as hydroquinone or retinoids.

How Can I Treat This Problem?

There are many ways to treat a diffuse pigmentation issue. The severity and cause of the issue will determine the treatment, but some general measures such as photoprotection (avoidance of sun exposure and the use of broad-spectrum sunscreens) and the avoidance of known triggers always help. In some cases, treatment is mostly cause specific. For example, if you have an excess amount of melanin in your gum area because you smoke, then your doctor will recommend that you quit smoking.

For some people with a cosmetic concern that is not causing any adverse effects to their health, treatment may only involve reassurance from a physician or dentist that there is no underlying problem or need for change in behavior.

Prevention Tips For Future Use

The first step to diffuse pigmentation is prevention. But some general measures such as photoprotection (avoidance of sun exposure and the use of broad-spectrum sunscreens) and the avoidance of known triggers always help. Treatment is mostly cause specific so it’s important to see a doctor who can diagnose your issue. The most common treatments are topical treatments like hydroquinone, tretinoin, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and alpha hydroxyl acids; chemical peels; lasers; and microneedling.

Does vitamin C help with hyperpigmentation?

Vitamin C is a proven topical treatment for hyperpigmentation, but some general measures such as photoprotection (avoidance of sun exposure and the use of broad-spectrum sunscreens) and the avoidance of known triggers always help. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that may reduce inflammation by preventing free radicals from damaging skin cells. It also helps to create new collagen, which can further aid in fading blotchy skin.

#1 While some people have seen results with vitamin C alone, most dermatologists recommend using it in combination with other treatments like retinoids or hydroquinone. This maximizes the effects and decreases side effects like redness and dryness.

How can I remove pigmentation permanently?

There are a number of ways to remove pigmentation permanently. One of the most popular treatments is laser therapy. This treatment involves exposing the skin to intense light, which stimulates it to produce more melanin in order to counteract the pigment loss. Another option is chemical peels. These involve applying chemicals or acids to the skin which dissolve away damage layers. There are also topical remedies that contain ingredients that can help fade dark spots and discoloration on the face and body such as hydroquinone, retinoids, and vitamin C serums.

What food causes skin pigmentation?

Dark pigmentation on the skin can be cause by a variety of factors. For example, some people may experience an increase in the production of melanin, which is a pigment that is naturally found in the skin. Other people may develop dark spots on their skin due to excessive sun exposure and subsequent damage to the cells that produce melanin. Regardless of what causes dark spots on your skin, it is important to know how to get rid of them for good.

What are the main causes of pigmentation?

Pigmentary disorders are a group of skin conditions that can cause dark patches on the skin. The two most common pigmentary disorders are melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Melasma is a discoloration that typically occurs on the forehead, chin, cheeks, and nose and is often trigger by hormonal changes or sun exposure. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation usually appears as an area of darker skin that appears after an injury or acne breakouts. Other causes of pigment patches include vitiligo (a disorder in which melanocytes are destroye) and lichen planus (an inflammatory condition).

Who are more prone to hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation can be cause by a number of different factors, including acne, sun exposure, and hormonal changes. Individuals with darker skin can also experience hyperpigmentation as a result of more melanin production in the skin. People with darker skin are more prone to hyperpigmentation than those with lighter skin tones because they are already producing more melanin. Hyperpigment areas on their bodies may not heal as quickly or completely as those on individuals who have lighter skin.

Which cream is best for pigmentation?

The best cream for pigmentation is a topical cream that contains retinoids. It helps to reduce the amount of melanin in the skin. Retinoids work by reducing tyrosinase, an enzyme that causes an increase in melanocytes, which produce more pigment as well as by increasing cellular turnover.