Don’t Let Eczema Dark Skin Discoloration Win - Get Control Now!

Are you noticing darker patches of dry skin on your body that weren’t there before?

Do you have a chronic, itchy rash with consistent flare ups in different areas? You may be experiencing a condition known as eczema.

Eczema is a skin condition that affects millions of people, particularly those with darker skin tones. This condition can cause dark spots and skin discoloration, as well as chronic itching, pain, and discomfort in affected areas.

In this article, we will look at the causes of dark skin eczema discoloration, common treatments, and how to prevent it from occurring.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a skin disorder that can cause an assortment of discomforts, from roughness and flaking to itchy rashes.^[1]

A lesser-known side effect of eczema is the emergence of dark spots – typically known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation - which often accompany other skin conditions.

These eczema patches can range from light brown to dark pink, and even a deep purple hue in people with darker skin, but will always be darker than your natural skin tone.

According to the Fitzpatrick classification, skin tone can be determined based on phototype, which is decided by how much melanin pigment exists in the skin.^[2]

Avoid scratching during an eczema flare-up to prevent two types of pigmentation disorders from occurring:

• Hypopigmentation, characterized by a decrease in skin pigment, typically results in patches of lighter skin that stand out against a person’s normal skin color.
• Hyperpigmentation often results in darker patches of skin that are noticeably different from an individual's natural skin tone.

Discolorations from eczema are usually more visible on individuals with darker skin types and those with darker skin tones. However, it's important to remember that these discolorations can occur in anyone living with chronic eczema.

Different Types of Eczema

Having eczema can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. From atopic dermatitis to contact dermatitis, there are a variety of different types that can cause inflammation, itching, redness, dryness, and scaling on the skin.

Let's take a look at some of the most common types of eczema so you can better understand your symptoms and what treatments might work best for you.

1) Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic eczema/ dermatitis is the most prevalent kind of eczema, typically beginning in early childhood and oftentimes becoming milder or disappearing altogether by adulthood.

2) Contact Dermatitis

Do you have itchy, inflamed skin accompanied by thick scaly patches? Chances are, you may be suffering from contact dermatitis – an adverse reaction to substances your body has come into contact with.

3) Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema is a form of dermatitis that creates small, itchy blisters on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. Females are more likely to be affected by this condition than males.

4) Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes scaly and oily patches on the hairline, scalp, upper back, nose, and groin. These patches often cause dandruff-like flakes due to an overproduction of sebum in these areas.

5) Nummular Eczema

Nummular eczema manifests itself in round spots resembling coins on your skin's surface.

Eczema Symptoms

Affecting any area of skin exposed to inflammation, hyperpigmentation could appear on your face and body - particularly if these regions are regularly exposed to the sun.^[3]

These patches tend to remain after an eczema flare-up has healed, lingering for a few months before fading away.

• Anyone who has eczema may notice patches of skin that vary in color, from ashy gray to dark brown. On darker skin, they can even look dark purplish.
• Plus, the area is typically dry, scaly, and itchy. In some cases a damaged skin barrier occurs due to persistent rubbing or scratching; this prompts leathery skin changes.^[4]
• Other signs such as puffiness, blistering secretion, and crust can also manifest.

How to Treat Eczema Prone Skin?

Over time, the eczema-related discoloration can become more noticeable and harder to get rid of.

While these dark spots from eczema may eventually lighten up on their own, you don't have to wait months for them to disappear - there are treatments available that could speed up the process.

For eczema, the most widespread professional treatment is to apply topical steroids with hydroquinone and tretinoin prescriptions.^[5,6]

• Hydroquinone, a depigmenting agent, lightens your skin's complexion by decreasing the creation of melanin-producing cells, the cells that produce skin pigment. Its use usually needs to be applied once or twice per day for three to six months until you can see visible results; if none are seen after about 90 days, it is recommended that you seek out other alternative methods from your dermatologist.
• Tretinoin, a natural derivative of vitamin A or retinoic acid, employs an innovative technique to revitalize your skin cells. It speeds up the rate at which dead skin cells are replaced with fresh and healthier ones for an improved complexion.
• Laser therapy treatments can eliminate multiple layers of skin, while non-ablative laser procedures can help firm up the skin and encourage collagen production.
• Chemical peels such as glycolic acid offer an effective way to reduce and even eliminate areas of hyperpigmentation by shedding the outermost layer of skin.

When eczema clears up, the melanin cells in affected areas may be affected by hypopigmentation, causing a reduction in skin pigment production. Though temporary, these patches can linger for a few weeks before fading away or diminishing after being exposed to the sun.

To discover your best treatment options, gain insight from renowned dermatologist Andrew Alexis, M.D., Chair of the Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai St Luke’s and Mount Sinai West.

How to Prevent Eczema Pigmentation

Though there are no definite measures to protect against hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation, decreasing the itch is a beneficial way of lessening the chances.

As chronic scratching leads to inflammation that can be damaging to pigmentation, it's essential to start curing eczema flares first.

Did We Mention...

Eczema Skin Discoloration FAQs?

Worried about skin pigmentation changes caused by eczema?

You're not alone! Many people are curious about the effects of this skin condition on their skin's complexion.

To help answer any questions you may have, we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding skin pigmentation and eczema.

Read on to find out more!

Q: What Is the Relationship Between Eczema and Skin Pigmentation?

In an attempt to defend itself, the body releases cytokines during an eczema flare-up which causes inflammation.^[7]

Melanin-producing cells, located in both skin and hair follicles, are responsible for producing a pigment that gives skin its color. These cells can be stimulated to release more melanin which darkens the tone of your skin.

People with darker skin tones are especially prone to generating higher levels of pigmentation when such reactions take place due to their already increased amounts of existing melanin.

Unique to darker skin tones, papular eczema is one of the more frequent variations of this common skin condition.^[8]

Q: Is It Possible for Eczema to Cause Dark Patches on the Skin?

Eczema can cause lasting discoloration on dark skin tones, as skin cells that regulate pigmentation become overly sensitive to inflammation.

After the inflammatory phase passes, these cells produce extra pigment and form dark spots similar to acne scars.

Although these dark patches may take weeks or months to completely fade away, eventually they do disappear with appropriate treatment of eczema itself.

Q: Does Eczema Skin Discoloration Ever Go Away Completely?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that individuals must treat eczema first to resolve skin discoloration over time.^[9]

Recovery may take a while, but once the underlying condition is healed, their skin tone will return to its normal hue with patience and dedication.

The Final Mention

In conclusion, eczema can manifest itself in a variety of ways and may be challenging to recognize and diagnose. Although specific treatments are available to help reduce symptoms and discomfort, preventive measures like avoiding irritants and employing a regular moisturizing routine are also key for long-term relief.

As many treatments for eczema may contain harsh ingredients, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any products or therapies. Despite the various struggles faced by many living with eczema due to its potential discoloration, there are resources available that can provide support throughout your journey.

If you're interested in learning more about how to manage your eczema-related discoloration or have questions about the topic discussed here, feel free to comment below.

Understanding the root causes, treatment options, and preventive steps for eczema is important to lessen its symptoms and enhance your overall quality of life.