Pigmentation

The colour of skin is mainly determined by the amount of natural pigment (called melanin) that is present.  Melanin production can be influenced by sun exposure (tanning) and also by different racial skin types.  Skin disorders can result in both too much and too little pigment being produced.  There are many causes of pigmentation problems including injury, inflammation or infections of the skin, sun damage, prescribed and non-prescribed medication, and pregnancy.

Treatment of skin pigmentation first requires assessment of the underlying cause, your doctor can then advise how best to treat the problem.