Discoloration of Skin
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Normal skin contains cells called melanocytes. These cells produce melanin, the substance that gives skin its color.
Skin with too much melanin is called hyperpigmented skin. Causes may include:
- Skin inflammation (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
- Use of certain drugs (such as minocycline and birth control pills)
- Endocrine diseases such as Addison disease
- Hemochromatosis (iron overload)
- Sun exposure
- Pregnancy
Skin with too little melanin is called hypopigmented skin. Possible causes are:
- Skin inflammation
- Certain fungal infections (such as tinea versicolor)
- Pityriasis alba
- Vitiligo
- Certain medicines
- Skin condition called idiopathic guttate hyomelanosis