Darkening of Skin

Pigmentation of the skin can be due to a variety of causes: the commonest is the darkening of the forehead, cheeks, and chin occurring in chloasma. Chloasma most often occurs in women during pregnancy or in those who are taking birth-control pills. It may sometimes also affect men.

The second type of pigmentation is freckling, a problem which is inherited. It is more commonly seen in fair individuals, particularly in those with red hair and blue eyes – so it is uncommon in our country. Both chloasma and freckling can be treated with bleaching agents like hydroquinone.

The third type of pigmentation is the darkening seen under the eyes - these are best managed by the clever use of cosmetics and by the use of under-eye concealers.