Answers and Advice from Dr. Atul Kathed, Dermatologist, Indore
If you have ever typed “pigmentation doctor near me” into a search bar, you are far from alone. Millions of Indians—across age, gender, and region—see stubborn dark patches, freckles, or melasma in the mirror and wonder why their skin seems so prone to discoloration. Pigmentation is not merely a cosmetic nuisance; it can dent confidence and signal underlying skin stress. In this 800‑word guide, Dr. Atul Kathed, one of Indore’s most respected dermatologists, explains the science behind Indian pigmentation, its prevalence, and the safest ways to restore an even, radiant complexion.
1. Why do Indians have pigmentation?
Expert opinion: Dr. Atul Kathed
“Think of melanin as nature’s sunscreen,” Dr. Kathed begins. “Because most Indians live between 8° and 37° north of the equator, our ancestors evolved higher baseline melanin to guard against intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The same protective pigment, unfortunately, also means our skin reacts strongly to triggers such as sun exposure, inflammation, hormones, and pollution.”
Key reasons:
Genetics and Fitzpatrick Types IV–V. Indian skin predominantly falls into medium‑brown categories that hyper‑respond to injury or UV light by making extra melanin.
Tropical Sunlight. Year‑round UVB and UVA lead to tanning, post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and melasma unless broad‑spectrum protection is used daily.
Hormonal Fluctuations. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and thyroid disorders can over‑stimulate melanocytes.
Environmental Stressors. Traffic pollution in metros binds to skin proteins, creating free radicals that deepen dark patches.
So, if you notice new spots after illness, acne, or even waxing, consult a pigmentation doctor near me promptly to control early over‑production of pigment.
2. What is Indian skin tone called?
Dermatologists classify complexions using the Fitzpatrick Scale (I–VI). Most Indians lie in Type IV (“moderate brown”) or Type V (“dark brown”). Locally, you might hear terms like “wheatish,” “dusky,” or “olive,” but Dr. Kathed cautions against color labels that fuel fairness myths. “The medical focus is on how skin behaves—not what shade it is,” he states. “Type IV–V skin tans easily, rarely burns, and heals slowly from inflammation, which is why we must proactively prevent hyperpigmentation instead of chasing quick fixes advertised online as a ‘pigmentation doctor near me’ miracle.”
3. How to remove hyperpigmentation from Indian skin?
Dr. Kathed offers a precise, stepwise roadmap:
Sun Shield First. A broad‑spectrum physical sunscreen (SPF 50, PA+++) with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is non‑negotiable. Reapply every 3 hours outdoors.
Targeted Topicals. Ingredients such as azelaic acid 10–20 %, kojic acid 1–2 %, niacinamide 4–5 %, or tranexamic acid 3 % fade dark spots without aggressive bleaching.
Professional Peels & Lasers. Mandelic‑ or lactic‑acid chemical peels, Q‑Switched Nd:YAG, and picosecond lasers can break up deep pigment safely when performed by an experienced specialist.
Consistency Over Speed. “Expect visible lightening in 8–12 weeks,” he reminds. “Stopping midway invites rebound.”
Combining the above under the guidance of a pigmentation doctor near me guarantees a customized, safer regimen for your unique skin biology.
4. How common is hyperpigmentation in India?
Hyperpigmentation is among the top three reasons Indians visit dermatology clinics, second only to acne and hair loss. Community studies in Mumbai and Delhi estimate that 25–30 % of adults show some form of chronic pigmentary disorder, with melasma affecting up to 20 % of women of reproductive age. Dr. Kathed notes an uptick in teenage PIH due to rising acne and screen‑induced blue‑light exposure. “When patients finally Google ‘pigmentation doctor near me,’ they are relieved to learn how widespread the issue is—and that science‑based solutions exist,” he says.
5. Expert Advice from Dr. Atul Kathed for Those Struggling with Pigmentation
“The first and most important step,” Dr. Kathed stresses, “is nutrition. Prioritize colorful vegetables—spinach, carrots, beetroot—and seasonal fruits. While fruits can be pricey, vegetables are budget‑friendly and equally powerful against oxidative stress.
Skip junk food, sugary snacks, salty chips, packaged juices, preserved foods, soft drinks, and even excessive ice cream—these spike blood sugar and trigger inflammatory pathways that worsen pigmentation.
Instead, sip unsweetened fresh lemon water for natural vitamin C. Pair that with a physical sunscreen every morning, and you’ve won half the battle.”
He concludes, “Most importantly, don’t self‑medicate with online creams. Book an appointment with a certified dermatologist. If you live in Indore, I’d be honored to be your ‘pigmentation doctor near me’ and craft a plan tailored to your skin’s history.”
Putting It All Together
Pigmentation in Indian skin isn’t a flaw—it’s an evolutionary asset that occasionally misfires in our modern, high‑stress environment. Understanding the genetic predisposition, respecting the Fitzpatrick profile, and following evidence‑based care can unlock a brighter, more even complexion.
Remember these pillars:
Protect: Daily broad‑spectrum sunscreen plus wide‑brimmed hats.
Correct: Science‑backed topicals and in‑clinic procedures.
Nourish: Antioxidant‑dense, low‑sugar diet.
Consult: Regular check‑ups with a qualified pigmentation doctor near me for progress tracking.
Hyperpigmentation may be common in India, but with deliberate lifestyle tweaks and expert dermatological help, it is rarely permanent. The next time you feel disheartened by dark patches, recall Dr. Kathed’s words: “Patience, protection, and professional guidance work better than any instant remedy.”
Ready to take charge of your skin health? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Atul Kathed—Indore’s trusted pigmentation doctor near me—and let science, not myths, shape your journey to luminous, confident skin.
