What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation comes in many forms but can be prevented and treated…
Hyperpigmentation is a general term used to describe any darkened area of the skin caused by an increased production of the skin pigment, melanin. Hyperpigmentation can affect nearly all skin types, all ages, men and women. Typically, those with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation issues as ethnic skin tones normally have more melanin. Often hyperpigmentation is only a cosmetic issue, but it can also be the result of an underlying medical condition which could require professional care.
Inside our skin are cells called melanocytes which produce the pigment melanin. Melanin is what gives our skin its color and more importantly protects our skin from the sun’s UV radiation. When the skin is exposed to the sun, its natural defense is to create more melanin, causing an overall darkening or tanning. While tanning is considered natural and often associated with beauty, the side effect of excessive tanning is often not as pretty. When the skin becomes damaged, either by too much sun, an external injury or by some internal cause, it can respond by creating excessive pigment and forming a pronounced dark spot or discoloration. These discolorations are referred to as hyperpigmentation and can come in the form of a dark age spot, scars, or brown/red patches on the skin. Hyperpigmentation can also be caused by many different medical illnesses such as Addisons and Cushings disease, Melasma, Linea Nigra, Tinea, Celiac Disease and more. For this reason, it is important that a doctor fully diagnose the individual before he/she attempts to treat just the cosmetic symptoms.
Hyperpigmentation can often be successfully treated with the use of skin lightening creams. Many of these creams contain an ingredient called hydroquinone which is a chemical skin lightener that can be used in various concentrations ranging from 2%-10%. Over the counter hydroquinone creams are available in a maximum of 2% concentration. For concentrations higher than 2%, a prescription is required. Many of these prescription strength products also combine the hydroquinone with Tretinoin, which helps to significantly increase cell turnover. Some individuals prefer not to use hydroquinone and instead opt for more natural skin lighteners that use proven ingredients like Kojic Acid or Arbutin. Check our annual Skin Care Roundup for a review of these kinds of natural skin lightening products. In some cases, laser treatment may be also be effective.
The sun is the worst enemy of hyperpigmentation. Without proper sun protection, it is nearly impossible to expect successful treatment. Sunscreens and protective clothing go a long way in the treatment and prevention of most types of hyperpigmentation.
What would you say the best cream or the best thing to do I have this on both sides I had this when I was pregnant I have tried so many things dose help at all can you help or advise me please with melasma i would have like to swnd picture
But doesn’t seem to let me thankyou
I was told my hyperpigmentation is the cause of a Fungus..Dx by a dermatologist. This issue started appr. 1 year ago, leaving my arms, upper chest and upper back very blotchy..Is there anything that can be done to cure this and get my skin back to a healthy color?
I have been using Obagi for over 5 yrs & tried a peel to lighten & eliminate my dark spots on my face. (peel done by professional) The peel didn’t work.
My discoloration is due to sun exposure when young and adult acne in my 50’s.
I’m would like to get ride of the dark spots and have a clear complexion. I’m at a loss of what to do next to treat my condition.
thank you for your time.
My race is black and I have hyperpigmentation . I am medium brown to lighter skin. My face is darkest of any other part of my body. I am lighter skin from shoulders down to my toes. I am getting small lighter spots on my face I need something to lighten my face and neck with moisturizer. I will appreciate all information you have available concerning my skin condition
Hi there
I have a stupid question for you. I’m fifty years old, with a crazy amount of roseaca. So my dermatologist did laser treatment, I saved up the money finally. She offer me a toner called sunbetter tinted, serum for 150.00. and a 68 spf compact tint one smart sunscreen colored They both say mineral protection. But mostly I can’t spend that much money. HELP!!! And the laser treatment didn’t do so good I figured I need to protect it as much as possible.HELP!! I was really trying to stay away from makeup in general.
Your study and comments are very interesting. I have had a hyperpigmentation spot on my face about the size of a quarter for many years. I used one tube of hydroquinone 4% gel which only lightened a very tiny top of the spot. A doctor used IPL light on it which did nothing. The hyperpigmentation is the result of spending most of my first 50 years in the sun. What would you suggest I do to remove the spot?
I have pigmentation under my neck from shaving what can I use to clear it.