[Analysis of cutaneous pigmentation in a sample].

BACKGROUND

The blend of hemoglobin, carotenes, and melanin defines the skin color. Constitutive pigmentation is genetically determined, facultative color is induced when skin is exposed to environment. The objective was to quantify both pigmentations in a sample of Mexican population and to analyze its relationship with sex, age, and phototype.

METHODS

We evaluated 259 individuals during the winter. Skin colorimetry was obtained by diffuse reflectance spectrometry, using the International Commission of Illumination coordenates. Lab* parameters were measured and the individual typological angle (ITA) was estimated from forehead, thorax, neck, forearms, and buttocks areas.

RESULTS

Facultative pigmentation differed from constitutive in L*, a*, and ITA° values. In men, L* and ITA° parameters were lower. Constitutive pigmentation was similar between sexes. Phototypes III, IV, and V showed differences in L*, b*, and ITA°. Facultative values such as L*, a*, ATI°, and the constitutive a* reduce as age increases.

CONCLUSIONS

The cutaneous tones of a sample of population were quantified recognizing their values for white, light brown, and dark brown skin. A reference frame for research related to cutaneous pigmentation in Mexico is presented.