A baby’s skin is perfect, clear, and glowing. As babies we are born with flawless skin, however, with age, the skin loses its brightness. Everyone yearns for a radiant complexion and the demand for skincare products like moisturizers, scrubs, cleansers, and toners is huge. No wonder, the market for skincare products is growing rapidly and the global skincare market is estimated to be 180 billion U.S. dollars by 2024.
Skin health depends on multiple factors, like health, age, gender, lifestyle and geographical location. Common skin problems include pimples and acne, blemishes, freckles and dark spots. Many times, the colour becomes dull and uneven and some parts of the skin become darker compared to the surrounding skin. This is known as hyperpigmentation.
Melanin, a skin pigment is responsible for the colour of our skin, eyes and hair. A group of special cells called melanocytes present in the bottom layer of the epidermis are responsible for producing melanin. Dark skinned people have more melanin than people with light-coloured skin. Hyperpigmentation happens when melanin production increases due to factors like stress, erratic schedules, unbalanced diet, sleep deprivation, climate, pollution, hormonal changes, pregnancy and more.
- Causes and Symptoms
Pigmentation, either localized or diffused, can manifest as brown, dark brown or black discolouration. Sometimes, there could be pink or purple patches. - The most common cause of hyperpigmentation is sunlight. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays triggers hyperpigmentation, a mechanism to protect skin cells from getting damaged from radiation. Freckles, age spots, acne vulgaris, pregnancy, contraceptive medicines, hormone replacement therapy, exposure to certain chemicals, mercury poisoning, fungal infections are some triggers. The deficiency of B 12 and folic acid can also be responsible.
- Hyperpigmentation is mostly harmless; however, it could be an indication of some underlying disease. Hyperpigmentation is a challenging condition that can result in mental stress and depression. Today, with many treatment options available you can easily find relief.
- Dermabrasion, microdermabrasion and laser therapy are some of the treatments recommended by doctors for hyperpigmentation
Dermabrasion, microdermabrasion and laser therapy are some of the treatments recommended by doctors for hyperpigmentationIt’s always wise to consult a dermatologist to rule out any underlying disease. As conventional treatment doctors suggest reducing sun exposure, using sunscreen, topical management, chemical peels, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion and laser therapy. Ayurvedic approach is natural and non-invasive.
Ayurveda Says
According to Ayurveda, the skin is governed by Vyana Vata and Bhrajaka Pitta. The latter, a sub dosha of Pitta is responsible for the colour of our skin. When Bhrajaka Pitta is imbalanced it manifests as redness in skin, rashes and pigmentation.
Ayurvedic approach to every problem involves pacification and balancing of three doshas by the administration of herbal formulations for topical and oral consumption to deal with the imbalance and elimination of toxins.
Ayurveda recommends Jajoba and Kumkumadi oils read on The QuintFit
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