No matter what your ethnicity, hyperpigmentation is a problem that you could experience at any time of your life. This skin disorder is characterized by the darkening of some areas of the skin, due to increased melanin (give skin color). There are three main types of hyperpigmentation: melasma, lentigines, and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Learning more about the types of hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory type of hyperpigmentation usually occurs after the eruptions of acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, and irritants such as inflammation, scratching and insect bites, among others. This type of hyperpigmentation consists of a skin reaction to inflammation, causing an overproduction of melanin, which leads to a dark spot as a trauma reaction.
Another type of hyperpigmentation is the Lentigines or Lentigo. These are small dark spots encircled by normal skin without any trauma. This condition is normally observed in all skin tones; however, lentigines are more noticeable in fair – skinned individuals. Men are more affected by this skin condition than woman.
Causes and risk factors that worsen the hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can be caused or get worse by three main causes, that are as follows:
- Genetic predisposition: in this case, it could be inherited mutated genes that pass from one generation to another. One example of this is the birthmarks, which have been passed from generations to others.
- Sun exposure: hyperpigmentation caused by excessive sun exposure is due to the action of melanin, that in this situation absorbs the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun, protecting our skin from its direct damage. However, the hyperpigmentation is a low key damage resultant from this.
- Hormonal changes: this is presented commonly in women, during pregnancy, as one of the side effects of the hormonal changes. The dark spots on women during pregnancy are due to the increased production of estrogens or progesterone, which leads to the pigment stimulation.
How to treat hyperpigmentation
There are two ways to treat hyperpigmentation: by conservative therapy or professional treatment. The first option is to have a skin care regimen that is specifically focused on hyperpigmentation. A conservative regimen may include one or more of these topical active skin lightening or skin brightening ingredients: hydroquinone (lightener); which is the gold standard product treating hyperpigmentation; azelaic acid, used especially on the treatment of post acne dark spots; kojic acid that inhibits the activity of tyrosinase, the main enzyme needed to produce melanin pigment; vitamin A; niacinamide (B3), known to improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness, and vitamin C.
On the other hand, the most popular professional treatment of hyperpigmentation is the different chemical peeling agents. These agents are classified by the depth of penetration, i.e., very superficial to deep. A superficial agent will give excellent results for hyperpigmentation found in the top layers of the skin (epidermis). Pigmentation in the lower layers of the skin will need agents traveling into the dermis. Any penetration into the dermis should be done by a physician only.
There are many lasers that will give excellent results for hyperpigmentation. Since all lasers are not the same, medium to darker skin tones should seek a professional who is knowledgeable in pigmented skin.
At Global Skin Solutions we have effective skin care solutions for hyperpigmentation
Our Natural Radiance products are formulated to specifically reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation for all skin tones. If you are looking for professional skincare products that offer a solution designed for you, please contact us by clicking this link to fill out our skin assessment form right on your computer. Then return this form by email, sending it to info@globalskin-solutions.com and one of our advisors will generate a clinical report regarding your skin type or condition, within 2-3 business days.
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