Does pigmentation cause wounds to turn black?

Mar 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, pigmentation may cause the wound to turn black. Pigmentation refers to the localized accumulation of melanin produced by melanocytes in the skin, resulting in darkening of the skin color. During the wound healing process, the surrounding soft tissues regenerate to repair the skin, which may lead to clustering of melanocytes, resulting in pigmentation and darkening of the wound.

Generally, hyperpigmentation may cause the wound to darken. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of the skin due to excessive accumulation of melanin produced by melanocytes in certain areas. During the wound healing process, the surrounding soft tissues regenerate to repair the skin, which may cause clustering of melanocytes, leading to hyperpigmentation and darkening of the wound. This condition is usually a normal physiological phenomenon that does not require special treatment. Over time, melanin will gradually metabolize and return to normal.

However, if the hyperpigmentation is caused by pathological factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, medication side effects, or inflammation, and is accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or pain, medications such as fluocinolone hydroquinone tretinoin cream or tretinoin ointment may be used under a doctor's guidance. These medications can inhibit the formation and deposition of melanin.

In daily life, avoid prolonged sun exposure of the wound to reduce irritation and damage from ultraviolet rays. Also, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits to aid in wound recovery.

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