Hyperpigmentation by definition is a common issue in which darker patches of skin appear in and around surrounding skin. It’s caused by underlying skin cells that overproduce the melanin pigment.
While cells produce melanin to protect skin from the harmful effects of damaging UV rays, too much melanin sometimes results in uneven, darker patches of skin.
Hyperpigmentation shows up in the form of freckles, age spots or acne scars. It can manifest anywhere on the body, but typically appears on the torso, hands and especially the face.
If you want to get rid of a blotchy, uneven skin tone, read on to find out the causes and treatments for this condition.
Why You Have Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is caused by the overproduction of melanin, which is a pigment responsible for the color of our skin. Typically, it’s a harmless condition and affects anyone of any age or skin color.
Various causes for onset or worsening of hyperpigmentation include:
- Overexposure to sun
- Heredity
- Aging
- Medications
- Acne scarring
- Pregnancy or other hormonal changes
Types of Hyperpigmentation
The most common types of hyperpigmentation are:
Sunspots
Results from overexposure to the sun in the form of freckles, solar lentigines (age, liver spots) primarily on the face and hands.
Overexposure to the sun or tanning is hyperpigmentation in action. While a tan looks healthy, it’s actually sun damage and your skin responds by overproducing melanin for protection. A tan may look great until you start seeing patchy, muddled areas of darker-colored skin.
Post-Inflammatory
Changes in skin pigment resulting from skin trauma or inflammation (such as acne).
Melasma
This type of hyperpigmentation is caused by hormonal changes; there are varying degrees of melasma.
As you get older, you may have more of an issue with hyperpigmentation. This is because as you age, melanin tends to pool together to form age spots. As the skin (especially on the face and hands) loses hydration and thins, it’s easier for dark patches of skin to form and become more obvious.
Treatments for Hyperpigmentation
Now that you know what hyperpigmentation is and possible causes for why you have it, let’s look into the treatment options to restore your skin back to an even tone.
Skin Bleaching/Lightening
For very mild cases of hyperpigmentation, there are many over-the-counter products available to help lighten the skin. It’s important to follow directions to the letter to avoid poor results, harm or damage to your skin.
The main ingredients most commonly found to lighten skin are those containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, vitamin B-3, C or natural extracts like licorice or mulberry.
Vitamin C, a strong antioxidant in the fight against free radicals, not only slows down melanin production but also gives you a brighter complexion and firmer skin as it boosts collagen production.
Retinoids
When thinking retinoids, retinol is what most likely comes to mind. All retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A.
Over time with consistent use, retinoids penetrate deeper into skin layers, increasing the skin cell turnover rate which reveals new, more evenly toned skin underneath.
Because they increase skin sensitivity, retinoids are best used in the evening to avoid sun exposure. It’s also recommended to use a high SPF cream before heading outdoors in the morning.
Retinoids can cause inflammation, dryness and peeling of the skin so use according to directions. Pregnant or lactating women should never use a retinoid without first checking with a doctor.
Skin Peels
Skin peels should be performed by a licensed professional and according to your skin type and condition.
By using skin-healthy acids, peels work by removing damaged skin layers to reveal healthier, more evenly toned skin underneath.
It’s important to see an expert for any type of peel to prevent permanent damage and trauma to the skin such as burning, redness and even scarring, especially for those with sensitive skin.
LED Treatment
Another non-invasive treatment that produces great results is to treat the affected area with LED light.
Also known as a “photo facial,” LED treatment has been shown not only to lighten dark skin patches, but also to stimulate collagen production for firmer skin. As an extra bonus, LED light treatments also help minimize the appearance of large pores and fine lines.
For maximum results, treatment by an esthetician is recommended.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is an effective treatment method which involves a thorough, non-invasive exfoliation of dull surface layer skin to expose more evenly toned skin underneath.
This procedure requires the attention of an expert to not only deliver maximum results but prevent any potential skin damage.
Conclusion
Whether too much sun, aging or your genes are responsible for hyperpigmentation, treatment can restore your skin and boost your self-esteem.
In Petaluma, call on the skincare professionals at Laura Skincare to treat all your hyperpigmentation concerns and conditions. For the best results, we offer facials, microdermabrasion, peels and LED treatments to help restore your natural, even skin tone.
