Pigmentary Disorders in Women

Abstract

Disorders of pigmentation can significantly compromise the quality of life of those affected and hence demand timely and appropriate management. The most commonly encountered afflictions include melasma, vitiligo, periocular hyperpigmentation, pigmented contact dermatitis and lichen planus pigmentosus. Psychosocial implications of these disorders are far more overbearing for women in most societies. Though their pathogenic mechanisms remain to be clearly elucidated, certain current and future therapies have been suggested and have shown promise.