A Short Guide to Hyperpigmentation and How to Treat It

Hyperpigmentation can affect patches of the skin, such as parts of your face, but it can also affect the whole body too. Although some people have learnt to live with this skin condition, many find that hyperpigmentation adds years to their appearance and strive to find ways to get rid of it. Here is a short guide to hyperpigmentation and a few top tips to help you treat it.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation causes parts of the skin to become darker than the surrounding area, and it occurs when more melanin is produced in your skin than normal. People of all skin types can get it. However, it occurs more with old age, after an injury, and during pregnancy.

Why Do I Have it?

There are different types of hyperpigmentation. The most common types of hyperpigmentation are age spots, also known as liver spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Age spots can be black, brown, or tan, and they appear in older adults and adults who have been exposed to the sun over a long time.
• Melasma, also known as chloasma, appears in large dark patches on the face, forehead, and stomach. Pregnant women, those who take birth control pills, and people with medium to dark skin tones are more likely to be affected by melasma.
• People who have suffered an injury or have had inflammation are more likely to get post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This condition can appear anywhere on the body, and the symptoms are patches of darkened skin and spots.

Seek Professional Help if You’re Uncertain About the Cause

In some instances, this skin condition can be an indication of an underlying medical condition. If you have the symptoms of hyperpigmentation but you are uncertain about the cause, speak to a healthcare professional.

How to Treat Hyperpigmentation

Although hyperpigmentation is often harmless, some people prefer to reduce its appearance. You can treat it using topical hyperpigmentation treatment creams that are formulated with ingredients that even skin tone. Niacinamide, retinol, and vitamin C are ingredients to look out for. Continuously hydrating your skin and keeping it moisturised will increase cell turnover, which can help fight hyperpigmentation.

Cosmetic procedures

Those who are serious about getting rid of hyperpigmentation often consider skin-lightening cosmetic procedures or skin lightening treatment. These include intense pulsed light, laser therapy, and chemical peels. In some cases, these procedures can make the condition worse. Before deciding to get these types of procedures done, always consult a professional.

Preventative Measures to Take

Hyperpigmentation can be difficult to get rid of once they appear on the skin. The best way to reduce its appearance is to stop it from happening to begin with. A few simple measures you can take include staying out of direct sunlight when the sun is at its highest point and using sun protection.

High-quality sunscreen, a hat and protective clothing can shade your body and reduce harmful sun exposure. If you suffer from acne or suffer from insect bites, try not to irritate your skin further. Picking at your skin can cause inflammation, which can result in hyperpigmentation.