Causes of Dark Skin

Skin color is primarily determined by a substance called melanin, which is produced by melanocytes in the skin. Below are some factors that can cause skin darkening: 1. **Natural causes**: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to skin darkening, aging, and the formation of wrinkles. The skin's response to UV exposure includes acute reactions such as redness, tanning, and increased epidermal thickness, while chronic exposure can result in premature skin aging. 2. **Genetic factors**: The amount of melanin in the skin depends on the activity level of tyrosinase in the cells. Higher tyrosinase activity increases the likelihood of darker skin, and this enzyme activity is genetically determined. 3. **Friction-induced pigmentation**: Some people tend to vigorously rub their skin when washing their face, removing makeup, or bathing. Prolonged friction, pressure, and irritation to localized areas of skin can lead to pigment deposition, ranging from light brown to dark brown. 4. **Medication-induced causes**: Certain drugs, such as quinine, sedatives, chloroquine, or mercury-containing ointments, often cause changes in skin color. 5. **Pathological causes**: Some endocrine disorders, chronic wasting diseases, and malnutrition-related illnesses can cause the skin to turn brown or dark brown. 6. **Irregular lifestyle habits**: People who frequently stay up late may develop a darker complexion due to damage to the liver and kidneys caused by sleep deprivation. 7. **Clogged pores**: If the skin already has melanin accumulation and clogged pores, and proper skincare is not maintained, melanin may fail to metabolize normally. Over time, this can lead to progressively darker skin and the formation of dark spots and freckles.