Introduction

Pigmentary Disorders is a form of a skin condition that is caused due to abnormality with melanin. It is a pigment that is produced by melanocytes which gives the skin its color. The more the melanin count the darker will be the complexion of the skin. Melanin also determines the color of the hair and eyes. On the other hand, lesser the melanin count the fairer will be the skin complexion.

Causes

There are many factors at play when it comes to Pigmentary Disorders and depend on the type of disorder. In many cases, the root cause of the condition cannot be identified. However, the most common causes of Pigmentary Disorders include.

• Autoimmune causes in which the immune system of the body attacks the melanocytes causing abnormality in the production of melanin
• Genetic factors
• Increased levels of progesterone and estrogen due to use of birth control pills, pregnancy, or hormone replacement during menopause
• Skin inflammation due to other skin disorders like eczema or psoriasis
• Cosmetic procedures like chemical peels
• In rare cases a reaction to a certain medication tends to result in Pigmentary Disorders

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a Pigmentary Disorder are abnormally light or dark colored skin. Even the face may look abnormally white and the eyes will be pink to red.

How is Hair Loss Diagnosed?

For a definitive diagnosis of the cause of the Hair Loss, the physician will first take a detailed history of the patient, including personal and family history. Once history taking is done then certain investigative tests will be ordered to come to the bottom of the cause of the Hair Loss. These tests include:
Pull Test: This test involves pulling of a few strands of hair forcefully to check whether any hairs come out of their groove. This gives the physician an idea of whether the quality of hair of the patient is healthy and strong.
Skin Lesion KOH Test: This test involves scraping some samples from the scalp of the patient to observe the hair roots. This gives the physician an idea as to whether there is an infection responsible for Hair Loss.
Blood Test: These are done to identify any underlying medical condition like a thyroid disorder that may be responsible for Hair Loss in the patient.
Microscopy: This is done to observe the hair shaft and see whether there is any abnormality there that may be causing the Hair Loss.

Treatment

The most common treatments for Pigmentary Disorders include

• Immune suppressants are also quite effective in restoring normal color and treat the symptoms of Pigmentary Disorders
• Laser resurfacing, chemical peels, Mesotherapy are some of the procedures that are quite effective in treating the symptoms of Pigmentary Disorders
• Skin grafting surgery is also considered as quite an effective treatment for the symptoms of Pigmentary Disorders.
• In cases of hypopigmentation, NBUVB, medications, injections, and surgery are the most preferred method of treatment.

With state of the art infrastructure, experienced physicians, and latest technology, Dr. Rajeshwari’s Clinic is apt for effective treatment for all types of pigmentary disorders.

Can Hair Loss be Prevented?

Hair Loss caused due to the normal process of aging cannot be prevented. However, steps can be taken to prevent loss and damage by avoiding chemical use in the hair like hair color and hair dyes. It is also recommended not to use hair dryers for long periods of time as it literally pulls the hair out from their shafts thereby damaging it. This makes the hair weak and brittle.
For healthy hair, it is always best to practice good hair hygiene by shampooing it regularly. Additionally, eating a diet rich in proteins, vitamin B, and iron is also quite effective in preventing hair loss. Keeping the thyroid levels under control and seeking immediate levels if diagnosed with an underactive or overactive thyroid is also recommended to prevent Hair Loss.