How to Treat Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is one of the popular skin issues that can potentially drive anyone into a shell of social isolation. It can affect the skin in such a way that it becomes unpleasant to look at. Sadly, It is very common, especially on skins of color, and also quite difficult to cure

Hyperpigmentation affects millions of people in the United States and this is why studies and research have been conducted to test the effectiveness of different cosmeceutical ingredients in treating the condition. The good news is that there are proven treatments. 

Are you dealing with hyperpigmentation?

We feel you, we understand your struggle, and that is why we have put this comprehensive guide together to show you how to treat hyperpigmentation successfully. 

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where some areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to a concentrated amount of melanin in that area. 

Melanin is a pigment found in the body that’s responsible for skin color. The more melanin your body produces, the darker your skin tone. When a certain area of your body produces excess melanin due to certain factors, it becomes darker than the other parts of your body. That condition is what is known as hyper (excess) pigmentation (color). 

Although hyperpigmentation is harmless, it can have some negative psychosocial effects on people. Most people would rather they have an even tone rather than discolorations in different parts of their skin. If you’re seeking solutions to your hyperpigmented skin, see below for the various treatment methods, including home remedies that can help treat hyperpigmentation. 

Most people treat hyperpigmentation using topical products that contain lightening agents like kojic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, glycolic acid peels, hydroquinone, corticosteroids, soy, azelaic acid, and many more. 

Some of these ingredients can cause side effects or allergic reactions like irritation, rashes, sores, or worse, it can even make the discoloration worse. Therefore, you must consult your dermatologist for advice. Also, stick to buying products from reputable skincare brands. 

This product contains retinoic acid, as well as other ingredients that work together to help treat hyperpigmentation effectively. Resurfacing creme is also very effective in treating fine lines and melasma (a type of hyperpigmentation). 

After cleansing your skin, apply your serum and massage the resurfacing creme into your face. 

This Perfec-Tone product contains lightening agents that can help lighten dark spots and give you an even skin tone. This is the product to use if you want your skin to appear radiant and wrinkle-free. In your skincare routine, the product should be used after cleansing and toning. 

This product is safe for all skin types and helps to fade dark spots. It contains arbutin and some natural ingredients like aloe vera that help even out skin tones and reduce the appearance of dark spots. You can use it as a spot treatment (apply only in dark spots you wish to lighten). You’ll begin to see results over consistent use. 

Using chemical peels is another way you can treat hyperpigmentation. It involves using a strong concentration of acids to remove the epidermis, hence reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. 

Some chemical peels can be gotten over the counter, but it is safer to consult your dermatologist to carry out this procedure. With a qualified and more experienced person doing it, you should get quicker and more effective results. 

If you have a darker skin tone, you can also benefit from chemical peels. However, this should be done with caution. Deep chemical peels should be avoided for black skin. Take precautions with chemical peels because the procedure makes your skin extra sensitive to the sun's rays. As a result, sunscreens should be applied without fail.  

Skin care professionals or dermatologists use guided light beams in a laser peel procedure to remove hyperpigmentation. This procedure is divided into two types—ablative and non-ablative lasers. The major difference between both is that ablative laser treatment focuses on removing the top layer of your skin (epidermis) while non-ablative laser treatment works on the dermis to stimulate collagen production. 

Both of these laser treatments allow new skin cells to grow back tighter and more toned.

Microdermabrasion is a cosmeceutical procedure performed by your dermatologist that targets the epidermis to treat hyperpigmentation. You may require multiple sessions to get satisfactory results. Your dermatologist will help you decide if this procedure is right for you. 

There are very few studies that prove the efficacy of natural remedies in treating hyperpigmentation. But the research available has shown that the natural ingredients listed below can help. 

Aloe vera contains a compound called aloesin. According to a study, this compound has lightening properties and can effectively treat hyperpigmentation.

To get results, the aloe vera gel should be applied to the pigmented area before bedtime and rinsed with warm water the following morning.

This should be done daily for maximum results.

According to a 2013 research, green tea extracts may have depigmenting properties. Although there isn’t much evidence to support this claim, there are testimonies from many websites about how effective green tea extracts are with consistent use. 

Sometimes, it is possible to prevent hyperpigmentation. But there are times when the appearance of dark patches is beyond your control. For situations within our control, here are a few ways you can prevent hyperpigmentation or stop it from becoming more obvious.

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30 following the recommendation of the American Academy of Dermatology Association. One of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation is sun exposure. So, protecting your skin can help prevent it. 

Avoid touching and picking at your skin, especially after a bug bite or acne breakout.

Always consult your dermatologist before using creams to lighten your overall complexion.

There are several ways to treat hyperpigmentation. Although it is harmless, you can decide to treat it using topical creams like Perfec-tone Resurfacing Creme, Refining Creme, and Spot Eraser. With your dermatologist's consent, you can opt for treatment methods like chemical peels, laser peels, and other cosmeceutical procedures. 

To prevent hyperpigmentation (when you can), you should always apply sunscreen and avoid picking inflamed areas of your skin.