Skin discoloration may be aggravating, especially when it appears on your face. It might be a normal aspect of the aging process, or it could be a cause for alarm signaling an underlying condition. A person’s skin tone might vary for a multitude of reasons during their life. Certain medical diseases, such as hypopigmentation (the whitening or lightening of the skin) or hyperpigmentation (the darkening of the skin), can induce alterations in a person’s skin color. Skin discoloration can affect big or tiny sections of skin and can be caused by aging or can be an indication of an underlying problem that requires medical treatment. The underlying reason determines the treatment for discolored skin patches. If your El Paso general surgery specialist discovers an underlying health problem, they will try to treat it first. You may use medical therapies, home remedies, or a combination of treatments to treat skin discoloration.
Medical therapies
- Laser treatment: Intense pulsed light devices and Q-switched lasers are frequently utilized to help brighten darker skin regions.
- Topical creams: The use of topical hydroquinone or prescription retinol (vitamin A) cream may aid in the reduction of the appearance of dark skin patches.
- Chemical peels: Chemical peels, including salicylic acid and glycolic acid, might be employed to remove the outer, discolored layer of skin.
Home remedies
- OTC creams: Vitamin A and E creams can help minimize skin discoloration and improve general skin health.
- Lemon juice: To brighten darker skin spots, use lemon juice twice daily. The visibility of discolored skin patches may be decreased in six to eight weeks.
- Castor oil: Apply castor oil to discolored areas twice a day, or wear a castor oil-soaked bandage overnight. This can aid in skin smoothing and the breakdown of extra melanin.
- Vitamin C: Consume meals high in vitamin C, an essential ingredient for skin health. Cantaloupe, oranges, and pineapple are examples of fruits rich in vitamin C.
- Drink tea: Tea prepared from burdock, red clover, or milk thistle may help to lighten skin pigmentation.
An overview of skin discoloration
Uneven regions with color changes in the skin are referred to as discolored skin patches. They are a common problem with various possible causes. Illness, injury, and inflammatory problems are some of the more typical reasons for skin color changes. Discolored skin patches are also frequent in a specific body area due to a differential in melanin levels. Melanin is the chemical that gives skin color and protects it from the sun. Skin discoloration can occur when melanin is produced in excess in a specific location.
Does cellulitis cause skin discoloration?
Cellulitis can result in skin discoloration in the form of hyperpigmentation or when skin regions become darker than the surrounding skin. Fever, discomfort, swelling, and redness are possible side effects.
Many skin changes are entirely safe. Some of the reasons for discolored skin patches are mild disorders that require just minimal treatment. Other causes may be more severe and need continuing care. Skin cancer is a dangerous disease that can be effectively treated if identified early. If you detect sudden or uncomfortable changes in your skin, you should consult with your doctor. Call Desert West Vein & Surgery Center or book your appointment online to determine which treatment option can help you deal with skin discoloration.