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How Does Hyperpigmentation Develop In Skin ?

how does hyperpigmentation develop in our skin

In this article, we will talk about hyperpigmentation. In addition, he will answer the following question: How does hyperpigmentation develop in our skin ?

Why does hyperpigmentation develop in our skin ?

  • The pimples turn dark brown.
  • Acne scarring.
  • Blotches that are left over after any sort of inflammation or breakouts.
  • It is also heavily linked and caused by the sun. When hyperpigmentation is caused by the sun, it can be causing trouble to our DNA.
  • Generally, it can occur on any skin type.

What is hyperpigmentation ?

Skin hyperpigmentation

Skin hyperpigmentation

Any skin condition that results in a discoloration or a darkening of the skin or part of it. Above all, there are many causes for hyperpigmentation. But the most common forms result from:

  • Excess sun exposure
  • Psoriasis
  • Eczema
  • Your acne
  • Popping pimples.

How does this hyperpigmentation and darkening develop in skin?

We will talk a bit scientific now. To underrated the process clearly, we will address the process in steps. In addition, you can have better understanding by following with the illustration hereunder.

Melanin, melanocytes and melanosome

Melanin, melanocytes and melanosome

  1. It happens in the epidermis.
  2. The epidermis is the outmost or the surface layer of the three (3) layers that comprise our skin.
  3. One of the components of the epidermis is the melanocytes.
  4. Melanocytes are spidery looking cells that produce Melanosomes.
  5. Actually, Melanosomes are pigments.
  6. Moreover, Melanosomes contain enzymes that help produce Melanin. Melanin travel upward towards the surface of the skin.
  7. Melanin color is dark.

Key facts about Melanocytes

  • All humans have about the same number of Melanocytes.
  • Our skin color isn’t about the number of Melanocytes.
  • Melanocytes start developing in embryo stages. In other words, humans form their skin color in the first three months of existence.
  • Skin color is about how far the cellular extensions known as dendrites extend and reach.

How do Dendrites determine skin color ?

To underrated the process clearly, we will address the process in steps. In addition, you can have better understanding by following with the illustration hereunder.

A diagram of a melanocyte in the epidermis transferring melanosomes to keratinocytes

A diagram of a melanocyte in the epidermis transferring melanosomes to keratinocytes through dendrites.

  1. Dendrites are cellular branches looking projections/extensions which receive and transfer Melanin granules.
  2. Then, Dendrites transfer Melanin granules to other cells known as Keratinocytes.
  3. Keratinocytes are cushion looking cells which overlay Melanocytes.
  4. Also, there is Nucleus inside Melanocytes and Keratinocytes respectively.
  5. Nucleus is the central core of any cell. It is in charge of sending signals to communicate with other cells.

    Scheme depicting the transfer of Melanin granules from Melanocytes to Keratinocytes

    Scheme depicting the transfer of Melanin granules from Melanocytes to Keratinocytes.

What happens when sun rays hit skin ?

One of the functions of Keratinocytes is to protect the skin. Let’s see how is this done.

  • Sun rays hit the skin.
  • Nucleus of Keratinocytes which are overlying Melanocytes send signals to Melanocytes to transfer Melanin.
  • Then, Melanocytes produce Melanosomes.
  • Moreover, Melanosomes produce melanin granules.
  • Then, Dendrites transfer the melanin granules to Keratinocytes.
  • Melanin granules travel upward and accumulate in the top layers of the Keratinocytes forming an umbrella to protect the Nucleus.
  • In addition, Keratinocytes produce Keratin. This is where the name of keratinocytes come from.
  • Keratins are proteins. Proteins keep our skin barrier healthy and protect it from harmful UV rays.
  • Skin barrier function is to prevent water loss, foreign bodies like bacteria, allergens and microbes from entering our body.

What happens when you overexpose to sun? Hyperpigmentation may develop.

When you expose to sun on a normal day, the umbrella of melanin that Melanocytes produce over Keratinocytes absorbs the UV rays. However, when you overexpose to sun, the Keratinocytes store more melanin to protect your skin.  Not only this, but also, the melanin will be bursting upward. As a result, your skin darkens due to the loads of Melanin sent from the Melanocytes. This how hyperpigmentation may develop in skin.

The main function of the Melanin is to protect the Nucleus from the harmful foreign bodies. Nevertheless, when you overexpose to sun, the UV rays can penetrate deep inside to the cells and impacts the Nucleus where DNA is stored. This may cause serious diseases such as cancer and Melanoma.

Final Word

Don’t be much upset about hyperpigmentation. It could a way of our skin to defend us. With the proper caution, you can avoid it. And with the proper care, you can treat it. Proceed to the following article to know how to treat your hyperpigmentation.

Don’t miss: What is Skin Rejuvenating Set And What Should You Expect?

For more information, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below.

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Yasmine
April 17, 2021

Hello!

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Rhose
April 16, 2021

Can rejuvenating set treat hyperpigmentation?

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    admin
    April 17, 2021

    Yes.

    Reply
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