What to know about skin pigmentation disorders

3 days ago

There are two types of skin pigmentation disorders: hyperpigmentation, in which the skin produces too much melanin, and hypopigmentation, in which the skin produces too little melanin.Skin pigmentation refers to the amount of color or 'pigment' in a person's skin. This differs according to the concentration of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes in the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin, which gives skin its color.Hyperpigmentation involves darker spots or patches on the skin, whereas hypopigmentation involves lighter spots or patches.Types of skin pigmentation disorders There are two main types of skin color changes in skin pigmentation disorders: hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation.HyperpigmentationHyperpigmentation is where the skin's pigment-producing cells — melanocytes — produce too much of the pigment melanin. This causes darker spots or patches on the skin.According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), examples of hyperpigmentation include:frecklessolar lentigines, also known as sun spots, age spots, or liver spotsmelasma, which typically develops as a result of hormonal changespost-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which can occur following acne or other inflammatory skin conditionsHypopigmentationAs the American Academy of Dermatology explains, hypopigmentation is where the skin's melanocytes produce less melanin than normal. This causes lighter spots or patches on the skin.What causes skin pigmentation disorders?Some changes in skin pigmentation may not be due to health conditions. For example, sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation. Similarly, medications or injuries to the skin may cause hypopigmentation.The underlying cause of a skin pigmentation disorder may depend on the type of condition a person has.Causes of hyperpigmentation disordersA 2023 review states that sun exposure is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation. However, hyperpigmentation disorders may have other underlying causes.Melasma causes blue-gray or brown spots on a person's face or arms. It can occur due to sun exposure or hormonal changes, which may occur due to medications such as the birth control pill.PIH occurs when a person's skin remains darker than typical after a lesion heals. Injuries or skin conditions that may cause these lesions include:chemical exposure or burnsacnepsoriasisatopic dermatitisCauses of hypopigmentation disordersThe 2023 review suggests most hypopigmentation occurs as a result of prior skin trauma, such as from blisters, infections, or wounds.The following conditions may also cause hypopigmentation:Albinism: Albinism is a rare genetic disorder that causes a lack of pigment in the skin, hair, and eyes.Pityriasis versicolor: Also called tinea versicolor, this common fungal skin infection occurs due to an overgrowth of yeast that usually lives harmlessly on the skin. It can cause hyper- or hypopigmented scaly lesions.Pityriasis alba: This condition causes hypopigmented lesions that tend to affect the arms, face, and upper torso. Most cases resolve in around a year.Vitiligo: Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes. This can cause one or more of the following symptoms: lighter spots or patches on the skin or inside the mouth or nostrilsa white streak in the hair on the head or whitening of the eyebrows or eyelashesloss of color in the iris of an eyehearing loss due to the loss of melanocytes inside the earHow do doctors diagnose skin pigmentation disorders?When diagnosing skin pigmentation disorders, a doctor will begin with a physical examination of the skin and may ask about a person's medical history and any family history of skin disorders.Doctors or dermatologists may also use a device called a Wood's light to help detect areas of hyperpigmented or hypopigmented skin. The device emits ultraviolet (UV) light that causes the skin to glow. Certain patterns of fluorescence can help a doctor diagnose specific pigmentation issues.In some cases, doctors may order additional tests to help confirm a diagnosis. For example, if a doctor suspects vitiligo, they may order blood tests to look for commonly associated conditions.What are the treatment options for skin pigmentation disorders?The treatment for hypopigmentation disorders depends on the type. Some disorders, such as pityriasis alba, may resolve on their own. Others, such as vitiligo, may improve with sun protection and oral or topical medications.According to a 2023 review, the preferred method of treatment for skin pigmentation disorders is laser therapy. This treatment works by targeting and breaking down excess melanin in the skin to achieve a more uniform skin tone.A 2019 review suggests laser therapy and intense pulsed light therapy (IPLT) may help treat some forms of hyperpigmentation, such as solar lentigines and certain types of birthmarks.However, the authors caution that laser therapy and IPLT may be less effective at treating melasma and PIH. These treatments may also be less safe, particularly for people with darker skin tones, causing a higher risk of PIG, burns, scarring, or worsening of melasma.For other skin pigmentation disorders, doctors may recommend a treatment plan that combines sun protection with topical medications, such as:hydroquinonetretinoin and a mild corticosteroidother medications, such as azelaic acid, kojic acid, or vitamin CPeople can speak with a doctor to learn the most suitable treatment for their skin condition.When treatment is not necessaryIn some cases, treatment for atypical pigmentation may not be medically necessary. However, if these changes in skin pigmentation affect a person's mental health or self-esteem, a doctor may recommend ways to cover the skin, including:cosmetics, such as foundationover-the-counter skin care productsself-tanning products, including creams or sprays»Learn more:How can people even their skin tone?When to contact a doctor People can speak with a doctor if they have any concerns about their skin pigmentation.According to the AOCD, most types of hyperpigmentation are usually harmless, though for some people, they may cause cosmetic concerns. However, hypopigmentation can sometimes signal an underlying issue, such as an autoimmune disease like vitiligo. As such, people should contact a doctor if they notice lighter spots or patches on their skin.If a medication causes skin changes, a doctor may recommend stopping or changing the medication. However, people should never stop or change a medication without their doctor's approval.Frequently asked questionsHow do skin pigmentation disorders appear on different skin tones?Hypopigmentation disorders, such as vitiligo, involve a lightening of the skin, regardless of a person's natural skin tone.Hyperpigmentation disorders may present differently depending on a person's natural skin tone and the cause of the pigment change.For example, people with dark skin may notice skin spots or patches that are brown, gray, purple, or black. People with light skin may notice skin spots or patches that are pink, red, tan, or brown.Hypopigmentation disorders, such as vitiligo, involve a lightening of the skin, regardless of a person's natural skin tone.Hyperpigmentation disorders may present differently depending on a person's natural skin tone and the cause of the pigment change.For example, people with dark skin may notice skin spots or patches that are brown, gray, purple, or black. People with light skin may notice skin spots or patches that are pink, red, tan, or brown.Are there any natural remedies for managing skin pigmentation disorders?According to a 2018 review, the following natural remedies may have the potential to help to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, but further research is necessary:azelaic acidsoylignin peroxidaseascorbic acidellagic acidlicorice extractsniacinamidemulberry People should speak with a healthcare professional before trying natural remedies on their skin.According to a 2018 review, the following natural remedies may have the potential to help to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, but further research is necessary:azelaic acidsoylignin peroxidaseascorbic acidellagic acidlicorice extractsniacinamidemulberry People should speak with a healthcare professional before trying natural remedies on their skin.Can diet affect skin pigmentation disorders?Diet's effects on skin pigmentation disorders may depend on the condition a person has.According to a 2022 review, most studies agree that a combination of vitamin B12, folic acid, and sun exposure can help restore skin pigment in cases of vitiligo. The review adds that there is some evidence to suggest zinc may also help to manage the condition.Diet's effects on skin pigmentation disorders may depend on the condition a person has.According to a 2022 review, most studies agree that a combination of vitamin B12, folic acid, and sun exposure can help restore skin pigment in cases of vitiligo. The review adds that there is some evidence to suggest zinc may also help to manage the condition.SummaryIn skin pigmentation disorders, the skin produces too much or too little of the pigment melanin. Hyperpigmentation describes an overproduction of skin pigment. Examples include solar lentigines and melasma. Hypopigmentation describes an underproduction of skin pigment. The most common example is vitiligo.Most of these disorders are harmless, though they may cause cosmetic concerns. Some may also signal an underlying hormonal imbalance or autoimmune condition. Anyone with changes to their skin should contact a doctor to find the underlying cause.

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Mum issues warning for parents to check ‘every fold on your kids' – as she's urged to take her tot to the doctors

The Sun

3 hours ago

The Sun

Mum issues warning for parents to check ‘every fold on your kids' – as she's urged to take her tot to the doctors

A MOTHER has issued a stark warning for parents to check ''every fold and crack'' on kids after discovering a nasty surprise in her tot's ear. Mum Des Riggs took to TikTok to warn fellow parents after making a shocking discovery in her daughter's ear. The mother, from the US, explained that her little one had been acting weird for the last few days, so she decided to check her body. After taking a thorough look, horrified Des realised the reason the girl had been '' fussy '' was a tick that had managed to hide in the top part of her ear. Despite their teeny size - which makes them difficult to spot - ticks can cause serious harm and their bite could even prove to be fatal. A bite from a tick can cause Lyme disease, which is an infection caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria transmitted to humans from ticks infected with it. Ticks are present in both rural and urban areas and are active from spring to autumn. The tiny spider-like creatures feed on the blood of humans, animals and birds, and are more numerous and more active in the summer months. Ticks will bite adults most commonly on the legs and arms but they can bite on any part of the body, especially warm and sweaty parts not covered by clothing. The insects are most likely to bite children around the head and neck. As families are enjoying the summer season outdoors, parents are urged to cover up and protect their child's head and neck and check the areas following time spent outdoors. Regular checks are encouraged throughout the day for both adults and children. The HSE Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) is advising people to cover up with clothing where possible and use insect repellent against ticks. Tick bites can be prevented by wearing long trousers, long sleeved shirt and shoes, a hat or tuck in hair. Using an insect repellent preferably containing the active ingredient DEET can deter ticks. People are urged to check skin, hair and warm skin folds - especially the neck and scalp of children - for ticks, after a day out. Checking for ticks and removing any from your pets, clothing or outdoor gear is essential. Most cases of Lyme disease are very mild and many infected people may not have symptoms. Warning fellow parents to keep themselves and their kids safe this summer, Des said in the now-viral video: ''Just your friendly mum reminder to check every fold and crack on your babies - because mt daughter has been fussy all week and I just found this inside her ear.'' In the clip, which has since racked up an astronomical 6million views, the horrified mum also showed the creepy crawly that was hiding. Justin Bieber: 'I had a rough couple of years' IN January 2020, Justin Bieber publicly revealed he'd been diagnosed with Lyme disease and that it had been a "rough couple of years" leading up to his diagnosis. He wrote on Instagram at the time people had suggested he looked like he was "on meth", but "they failed to realise I've been recently diagnosed with Lyme disease, not only that but had a serious case of chronic mono which affected my skin, brain function, energy and overall health". The singer's experience with the disease was detailed in his documentary series Seasons on YouTube. The series includes footage of him using a hyperbaric oxygen chamber and receiving IV infusions at a doctor's office, as well as interviews with his psychiatrist and the doctor who diagnosed and treated him for Lyme disease. Bieber recently indicated he's "back and better than ever". 'This is serious' The warning, posted just one day ago under the username @ desriggs, has already taken the internet by storm, amassing over 206k likes, with close to 600 people flooding to comments. One concerned viewer urged: '' Take her to the doc. She can do a round of antibiotics to help prevent tick-related diseases before it's too late.'' A second agreed, writing: ''I have Lyme disease from a tick I didn't know was there. ''This is kind of serious if she's been fussy all week she's probably sick too.'' ''You need to get her tested asap to make sure she didn't contract a tick borne disease!'' someone else chimed in. REMOVING TICKS 4 4 If a tick is removed within the first number of hours, the risk of infection is very low. The entire tick should be removed with a tweezers by gripping it close to the skin. Slowly pull upwards, taking care not to squeeze or crush the tick and then dispose of it. Be sure to check for any mouthparts which may break off. The skin where the tick was found should then be washed with soap and water and the area checked over the next few weeks for swelling or redness. Dr Paul McKeown previously told The Sun: 'People are more likely to spend time outdoors in the spring and summer months. "Anyone who spends time outdoors should protect themselves against tick bites. This includes ramblers, campers, mountain bikers, people who work or walk in woodland, parkland and heathland, especially in grassy areas. "Preventing tick bites prevents Lyme disease.'

We're suing our five-star hotel after our nightmare Vegas vacation left us covered in hideous rashes

Daily Mail

7 hours ago

Daily Mail

We're suing our five-star hotel after our nightmare Vegas vacation left us covered in hideous rashes

What started as a dreamy getaway to Las Vegas spiraled into a nightmare for a Georgia couple, who came home not just with memories - but with full body rashes allegedly caused by mold lurking in their five-star hotel, according to a recently filed complaint. In a lawsuit obtained by Daily Mail, it is revealed that earlier this year, Mark and Leilani Nickerson arrived at the opulent Conrad Las Vegas - one of the crown jewels of Resorts World and Hilton - expecting nothing short of a luxurious, high-end experience. But within days, according to the complaint, both began to suffer from an unsettling array of symptoms - persistent headaches, flu-like fatigue and relentless irritation - that eerily echoed the effects of toxic exposure. It wasn't until the couple later passed by their room that they witnessed a shocking sight - hotel staff allegedly peeling back the carpet to reveal a sprawling expanse of black mold contaminating the floor, the complaint reads. Now, the Nickersons have taken legal action against the resort and Hilton Worldwide, claiming that black mold exposure during their stay left them ill and facing a growing burden of medical expenses, according to the lawsuit obtained by Daily Mail. 'Our clients filed this lawsuit because they expected Resorts World/Hilton to be a high-end luxury resort, with impeccable customer service,' Las Vegas attorney Neal Hyman, who filed the complaint on behalf of the couple, told Daily Mail. 'This is unacceptable. Our clients suffered a great deal of pain/discomfort from this, and Mr Nickerson had a painful rash on his entire body,' he added. 'The Nickersons want to make sure this does not happen to others.' What began as a routine check-in on January 23 quickly unraveled, as the Nickersons settled into 'Room 1' - the room identified at the center of the lawsuit - after arriving from Georgia. After just one night in the hotel, and only two days into their stay, Mark allegedly began noticing a rash rapidly spreading across his entire body. Worried, he sought urgent care, suspecting the rash might be caused by body wash or bed bugs. Mark promptly alerted both the Conrad Hotel and Resorts World about the growing problem, while meticulously documenting his spreading rash with photos - hoping to catch it before it worsened, the complaint reads. The couple subsequently filed an incident report, which led to their relocation to a different room - identified as 'Room 2' in the court documents. But it wasn't long before Leilani also began feeling unwell, and from that moment on, the couple was plagued by a relentless barrage of debilitating, flu-like symptoms, the complaint reads. With a background in construction, Mark quickly began piecing together what the complaint says was the truth - this wasn't a simple allergic reaction to hotel soap, but potentially something far more serious: sickness caused by mold exposure. Still, the exact cause remained uncertain, despite Mark being highly susceptible to infections and complications from mold exposure. Their trip only took a darker turn, according to the complaint, when they passed by their old room - Room 1 - with the door wide open and the fan eerily humming inside. Inside the very room they had stayed in just hours earlier, the wall had allegedly been cut open and the carpet pulled back, revealing 'black mold all over the place, the complaint says - a presence described in the court docs as consistent with hazardous mold. While the Nickersons recorded video evidence of the alleged mold, the wet carpet and the gaping hole cut into the wall, a hotel employee appeared unfazed - allegedly treating the scene as if it were just routine maintenance, the complaint says. 'The maintenance person confirmed it was mold/water intrusion, and he said it happens a lot due to the way the showers were constructed/designed,' the lawsuit alleged. Before fully grasping what they said was the severity of their situation, the couple requested a waiver of hotel resort fees, citing their inability to use the hotel's amenities due to illness. But the resort denied their request, offering to waive only a few minor fees at most, according to the court docs. The resort allegedly attempted to get the Nickersons to sign a waiver relinquishing all their rights and claims - a legally binding document that forces one party to voluntarily forfeit any future claims without holding the other liable, according to the complaint. However, instead of signing the waiver, the couple retained legal counsel. After the resort did not respond to their pre-litigation demand, their attorney swiftly filed a lawsuit. The lawsuit detailed the extent of the alleged damage caused, asserting that both Mark and Leilani 'sustained personal, bodily, emotional and mental injuries' as a result of their stay. Among the injuries cited in the court docs were numerous doctor visits, ongoing medical evaluations, economic hardship, loss of enjoyment of life and persistent pain - resulting in mounting medical bills and the need for future treatment, testing and medications. 'As a result of being exposed to water intrusion, mold and toxins, [the couple] sustained injuries to their body and shock and injury to their nervous system and person,' the lawsuit alleged. 'All of which caused and will continue to cause them physical pain/suffering and emotional pain/suffering,' it continued. Both Mark and Leilani 'are self-employed business owners, and have lost work/earnings as a result to their exposure to mold/toxins and resulting injuries,' according to the complaint. The court filing further alleged that the resort did not disclose 'concealed' defects to their guests and neglected to exercise due diligence in inspecting hotel rooms and supervising maintenance staff. As a result, the Nickersons are seeking both general and special damages exceeding $15,000, including compensation for past and future medical treatment, economic losses, resulting damage, attorney's fees, expert costs and other necessary expenses, according to the suit. 'The conduct constitutes intentional, knowing, willful, oppressive, reckless and malicious acts/omissions by [the resort], such as to constitute conduct and oppression, fraud, malice and such conduct legally entitling [the Nickersons] to recover an award of punitive damages,' the lawsuit read.

EXCLUSIVE The fresh world of hell facing Anthony Fauci... as the net FINALLY closes in on 'Doctor Doom'

Daily Mail

7 hours ago

Daily Mail

EXCLUSIVE The fresh world of hell facing Anthony Fauci... as the net FINALLY closes in on 'Doctor Doom'

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Senator Rand Paul dishes on the latest in his investigation into the man who led America's COVID-19 response, Dr. . The Kentucky senator, who has grilled Fauci about the pandemic since 2021, tells the Daily Mail he is preparing to subpoena Fauci as part of an expanded Senate investigation into the origins of Covid-19 and US-funded research in , .