Hyperpigmentation is the dark spot left by a pimple. It is the post-inflammatory reaction of the skin. It commonly appears as brown spots or patches. All skin types can suffer from this condition but hyperpigmentation is more prone to people with darker skin tones. Although this condition is harmless, it could take months and even a year for the skin to heal and go back to its normal skin color. It takes time to heal because it is in the deeper part of the skin. Rest assured that with the help of advanced technology and dermatologists, it could be treated right away.
Causes Of Hyperpigmentation
The intensity of the hyperpigmentation depends on the individuals but the causes are still undetermined by dermatologists. The main cause of this condition is the overproduction of melanin. Melanin is what gives the skin its natural pigment. According to dermatologists, overproduction of melanin typically occurs in the post-inflammation of the skin. These are other causes that could trigger hyperpigmentation.
Sunlight/UV Rays
Excessive and direct sunlight could worsen hyperpigmentation. It could stimulate the overproduction of melanin, thus damaging the skin. Dermatologists remind people to always wear sunscreen to protect the skin and prevent it from weakening. This could not only prevent hyperpigmentation but other skin illnesses as well.
Hormonal Causes
Hormonal imbalance is the main cause of melasma. Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation, common in women or pregnant women. This appears as a “mask-like” dark patch around the face.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), diabetes, cancers, hyperthyroidism, Addison’s disease, and other disorders could cause hyperpigmentations.
Medications/Therapy
Certain drugs, medications, and therapy such as chemotherapy drugs, cytotoxic drugs, non-steroidal inflammatory drugs, and other medications could trigger skin pigmentation as well.
Other causes include physical injuries, obesity and tobacco smoking.
Types Of Hyperpigmentation
Melasma
Besides hormonal imbalance, birth control pills could also trigger melasma. Some thyroid diseases could also cause discoloration. It is more common in women than men. Melasma can be diagnosed by a technique called Wood’s lamp examination wherein the dermatologist uses a scientifically designed lamp to view the skin. Melasma is not cancerous but some dermatologists would suggest biopsy as melasma could sometimes be the signs of an underlying serious skin condition such as skin cancer. There are three types of melasma: dermal, epidermal, and mixed. These types are categorized according to the depth of the pigment.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
This type is commonly caused by acne and skin injury. Overproduction of melanin occurs in order to heal the skin from injury. Dermatologists advise not to pick the wounds and prick acne to avoid the surplus of melanin.
vitamins and minerals to provide your body and mind with nutritional support. It also provides a range of vitamins and minerals for the maintenance of good health.
Age Spots/Sunspots
Based on the name itself, this type of hyperpigmentation is mainly caused by excessive sun exposure. According to dermatologists, the skin produces too much melanin when the skin’s exposure to sun is prolonged. It is also called liver spots and it can emerge on the hands and arms as well.
Treatments Of Hyperpigmentation
There are different ways to get rid of hyperpigmentation:
Chemical Peel
Although there are over-the-counter (OTC) chemical peels in the market, it is still advisable to ask a dermatologist to do it. This procedure uses acids to treat and lighten dark spots such as hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels are highly effective and can fasten the healing period of the desired area. That is why this method is the best hyperpigmentation treatment.
Best Product For Hyperpigmentation On The Face
There are a huge variety of lightening ointments and hyperpigmentation creams available on the market. One of the most effective treatments is the vitamin C serum for hyperpigmentation as this can inhibit the production of melanin. Dermatologists also advise people to buy products with the following ingredients: Vitamin B-3, licorice extract, and lemongrass. Such ingredients could promote healthy skin and are one of the best products for hyperpigmentation.
Laser Peel
Similar to a chemical peel, this procedure is done by professionals. Laser peel simply targets dark spots allowing it to lighten the skin and regenerate. There are two types of laser peels: ablative and non-ablative. The difference between the two is that the ablative is much more intense as it penetrates the skin, while the non-ablative tightens the skin by triggering the collagen.
Other Treatments Are:
Intense pulse light therapy (IPL), Microdermabrasion, Dermabrasion.
Simply consult your dermatologists to decide on which hyperpigmentation treatment best suits your skin.
Recommended Home Remedies
To cut back expenses, there are some home remedies that are recommended by dermatologists. Among them are aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, and tomato paste. Natural remedies such as these ingredients contain natural lightening ingredients that are healthy and soothing for the skin. Simply remember that not all home remedies are effective and efficient, it is still best to consult with medical experts in order to know which treatments would work best.
Talk To Your Dermatologist
Consult a doctor if you have hyperpigmentation around the mouth because it might be due to severe nutrition deficiency.
Whatever treatment you eventually pick, it is critical to prevent your skin from further UV damage and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen should be worn every day. Sunscreen should be applied every morning — even if it’s gloomy — and reapplied as needed throughout the day. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
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