Before we delve into the complex strategy for dealing with uneven skin pigmentation, let's first clarify why uneven pigmentation occurs in the first place. The process is actually pretty simple, so let's briefly walk through the biology so you can get some insight into what's behind it. Let's start with some key players.
The melanocytes: Melanocytes are the pigment-producing cells in the deepest part of the epidermis. Through a process called melanogenesis, each melanocyte produces melanin, packages it, and releases it to the upper layers of the skin, where it becomes visible pigmentation. 💥
Tyrosinase! As one of the most important enzymes in this process, tyrosinase determines how quickly melanin is produced - and when it comes to melanogenesis, "how quickly" is crucial. Uneven skin tone, melasma, and hyperpigmentation are all linked to excessive melanin production.
External Triggers: Melanin production can be influenced by a number of external factors that can trigger a group of melanocyte cells to increase production, resulting in uneven skin tone and unwanted dark spots.
