Our skin is able to protect us from the harmful sunlight with a substance called melanin. As more melanin is produced, the skin gets darker and the more protection we get against the sun. Melanin is produced by pigment producing cells called melanocytes. The amount produced is determined by heredity and exposure to the sun. Asians tend to produce more melanin when exposed to the sun, hence they tan quickly and are as at risk for severe burns as most Caucasians are.
However, melanin can be over-produced due to factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause), ageing or certain medications. Excessive melanin causes pigmentation problems that show up as abnormal dark blotches on the skin, causing unevenness in the overall appearance of the skin.
Pigmentation can be lightened and controlled through the use of hydroquinone, which works by stopping the production of melanin without destroying them.
It is advised that any persons using a hydroquinone cream on their skin to avoid exposure to the sun, which can stimulate the production of more melanin and pigmentation on the skin. Hydroquinone should also only be used in low concentrations (2% or 4%), and only as directed by your doctor.
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