The BRIGHT side

We've all been there: nose to the mirror, inspecting a dark patch of skin that materialized overnight just to ruin the morning.

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It may be a selfish comfort to know that, at least, you're not alone! Pigmentation is one of the most common skin conditions that patients are concerned about, says Joburg-based dermatologist Dr Matilda Mphahlele. After working in public and private hospitals, she's seen - and treated - it all. Her advice? Knowing the cause of your pigmentation is key to treating it correctly.

SO, WHAT CAUSES DARK SPOTS?

Pigmentation refers to dark patches or spots on the skin. They form when your skin cells produce more melanin (a natural skin pigment) in one area than another, causing an uneven skin tone. Rather than being a condition itself, pigmentation is a symptom of any number of skin issues.

The number-one cause, in Dr Mphahlele's experience, is acne: "People come in not because they are concerned about the acne, but rather the pigmentation that the pimples cause. Pimples cause pigmentation when they are picked at and the scar presents as a dark patch of skin," she explains.

Melasma (a common skin condition that causes patchy pigmentation on the forehead and cheeks) comes in at a close second. "It's caused by a change in hormones, as a result of pregnancy or hormonal medication such as birth control, or due to sun exposure," explains Dr Mphahlele. "Other causes are eczema, sun exposure or a reaction to a specific procedure, such as laser hair removal."