UNDERSTANDING THE FACTORS BEHIND SEASONAL HYPERPIGMENTATION
11th November 2024 /
HIMAIRA
Seasonal hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of certain areas of body that often occurs during specific times of the year, due to changes in environmental factors. While everyone’s skin reacts differently, diffrent triggers during different seasons can cause pigmentation. Here, we’ll explore the main factors that contribute to seasonal hyperpigmentation.
1. Sun Exposure
The leading cause of hyperpigmentation is UV rays from the sun. During summer seasons, when people spend more time outdoors, the skin is exposed to higher levels of UV rays. This exposure causes the skin to produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. However, exposure for long hours can cause uneven melanin production, leading to dark spots or patches. Even during cooler seasons, UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds, contributing to hyperpigmentation if sunscreen protection isn’t maintained.
2. Hormonal Fluctuations
Changes in hormones can also cause skin pigmentation, particularly in women. Hormonal fluctuations caused by pregnancy, the use of birth control, or even stress can trigger melasma, a type of hyperpigmentation. This condition is often increased during the summer months when sun exposure is more high, but it can occur at any time.
3. Skin Sensitivity
Seasonal changes like change in temperature and humidity can make skin more sensitive. For example, colder weather often leads to drier skin, which can cause irritation or inflammation. This inflammation can then trigger a condition called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where dark spots appear after the skin has been irritated or injured.
4. Dehydration
As the weather shifts, our skin is not able to retain moisture. During the fall and winter, cooler air dry out the skin, leading to dehydration. Dehydrated skin is more prone to redness and irriation both of which can lead to hyperpigmentation. The lack of moisture also reduces the skin’s natural barrier, making it more closer to external damage, which can further worsen pigmentation issues.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only. It should not be substituted as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment in any manner.