Melanin is a substance present in the skin that gives it its color. Melanin also works to protect the skin from harmful exposure to the sun. However, although melanin is helpful, an abnormal increase or decrease in melanin levels can indicate or lead to certain skin issues. The overproduction of melanin in a given area can result in skin discoloration. This can appear as patches of skin that have a different appearance from the rest of the body. Common causes of skin discoloration are injury, illness, and inflammatory problems. Different conditions can cause discolored skin patches, which can range from minor issues to serious medical conditions.
Some of the most common causes are:
1. Infections
Localized changes in skin color can be caused by various infections. Simple cuts and scrapes can become infected, leading to a change in the texture and color of the affected skin. Discolored skin patches can also be triggered by fungal infections such as ringworm, tinea versicolor, and candida.
2. Auto–immune diseases and allergies
Although the immune system works to keep the body healthy, auto-immune diseases and allergies cause the body to confuse healthy cells for foreign cells and attack them. This can trigger swelling and redness, as seen in lupus erythematosus and Grave’s disease. An allergic reaction, like eczema, can also cause scaly patches and red bumps on the skin.
3. Burns
Sun damage to the skin can also cause discolored skin patches. Therefore, it is important to wear sunscreen most of the time, especially if you are planning to be outside for a prolonged period of time (even in the winter). Certain medications can also make the skin sensitive to the sun, resulting in more severe sunburns and discoloration. If you are experiencing more sun damage than usual, be sure to double check the side effects of your medications.
4. Birthmarks
Birthmarks are discolored spots on the skin that can be present at birth, or develop in early infancy. Most birthmarks are completely harmless, though they may occasionally indicate an issue. For example, a red birthmark indicates swollen blood vessels under the skin, causing flat pink or red patches. Moreover, a large, dark birthmark may be a congenital nevus, which does indicate an increased risk of skin cancer in adulthood and should be monitored by a doctor.
5. Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder where there is no pigmentation in the skin, hair, or eyes. As a result of this disorder, people do not produce enough melanin. Most people with albinism are perfectly healthy, though the disorder can lead to some eye issues and an increased risk of skin cancer.
6. Hormonal changes
During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones often trigger skin discoloration. A skin condition called melasma can develop due to these hormonal changes, causing darker patches to appear on the skin.
7. Skin cancer
Skin discoloration can also develop as a result of skin cancer. This cancer occurs when the genetic material in the skin cells is damaged, causing the cells to multiply rapidly and leading to the formation of tumors. This damage could happen due to constant exposure to chemicals or long-term sun damage.
