Hyperpigmentation Treatments: Effective ways to even out skin tone
Published on: 12th June 2024 by Digital Team
In medicine, darker skin patches caused by an overabundance of melanin production are referred to as hyperpigmentation. Hormone changes, UV damage, and acne scars are just a few possible causes of this. You are not alone if you are struggling with hyperpigmentation. Various treatment methods are available for hyperpigmentation, a common skin problem. Continue reading at Ladyfair to learn more about your options, what to anticipate from treatments like microdermabrasion, and other topics.
Four Potential Causes of Hyperpigmentation
These are the most typical causes of hyperpigmentation, and they might vary in severity in individuals with different skin tones.
1. Sun Damage:
The UV rays from the sun cause your skin to produce more melanin. You get tanned because of the excess melanin. However, excessive or regular sun exposure might result in the appearance of black sunspots. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery states that sun-exposed skin may acquire precancerous lesions that resemble sunspots, even if they are not cancerous. This is why it's crucial to have a dermatologist examine your skin once a year.
2. Inflammatory response:
Inflammation can be triggered by skin trauma, including acne, eczema, insect bites, cuts, scrapes, and even scratching or friction from, for instance, vigorous rubbing. After the damage has healed, inflammation can cause pigment-producing cells to activate, forming a dark area.
3. Melancholy:
Brown patches, often known as the "mask of pregnancy," are the hallmark of melasma, a condition frequently developing in women whose hormone levels fluctuate, such as during pregnancy. Although it can happen to men as well, women are more likely to have this kind of hyperpigmentation. Given that using oral contraceptives has also been connected to it, a combination of genetics, sun exposure, and hormonal changes are thought to be the cause. Melasma can also be brought on by other hormone medicines, which are covered in the next section and are used for birth control and menopause symptoms.
4. Health Issues or Prescription Drugs:
Addison's disease is a dysfunction of the adrenal glands that can lead to an increase in melanin production and hyperpigmentation. Antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), and antimalarial medications are among the medications that may raise the risk of hyperpigmentation.
Some chemotherapy medications may also result in transient hyperpigmentation. When using chemotherapy medications, the corresponding black spots normally go away 10 to 12 weeks after the treatment is over because new ones replace the dead skin cells.
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Effective ways to even out skin tone
1. Use Face Acids:
Skin acids, often known as face acids, remove the outermost layer of skin cells. Whenever you exfoliate, new skin cells grow from the skin to replace the old ones. As a result, your skin tone becomes more balanced and smoother overall. Many facial acids can be purchased over the counter at drug and beauty stores. Popular choices include:
- Alpha hydroxy acids, including vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and glycolic
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Lactic
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Citric, malic, or tartaric acid
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Azelaic
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Kojic
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Salicylic acids
2. Maintain Hydration to Increase Cell Turnover:
While lightening the dark spots is the main objective when treating hyperpigmentation, an efficient over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizer should also include substances that have additional skin-beneficial properties. A good product will address pigment problems and hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin; it may even contain retinol to increase cell turnover.
According to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, an effective moisturizer can also restore the skin's lipid, or fat, barrier. This will support the health of new skin cells as they emerge to replace old ones.
3. Refrain from touching bug bites, blackheads, and other wounds:
While squeezing a stubborn blackhead or itching a mosquito bite could be tempting, heed your mother's advice and don't pick. Picking and scratching at a location will only exacerbate the inflammation, causing the skin to discolour.
4. Examine OTC Solutions for Whitening:
The earlier you address hyperpigmentation, the easier it will be to remove it. Over time, the pigment of brown patches may penetrate the skin more deeply. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises searching for spot-eradicating components in over-the-counter medications, including retinoids, vitamin C, and glycolic and azelaic acids.
Vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid are among the components used in treatments that help lessen hyperpigmentation by suppressing tyrosinase. This enzyme forms melanin, which darkens the skin.
The study notes that the surge in over-the-counter medications containing the chemicals mentioned above can be attributed to the discovery of the connection between tyrosinase and excess melanin production.
5. Shield Your Skin from the Sun:
The best defense against discoloration caused by the sun is to consistently wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more every day, even on gloomy or chilly days. Dark patches get darker due to the pigment's hyperdrive caused by UV radiation.
SPF solely describes protection against UVB short-wave radiation. Select a product containing Mexoryl, Parsol 1789, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or avobenzone to further protect against UVA long-wave radiation.
The AAD also advises against going outside between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun is at its brightest. You can also wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your head, face, ears, and neck.
6. Expert skin care procedures:
You may benefit from some in-clinic treatments if, after a few months, prescription skincare isn't improving your hyperpigmentation or if your specific case calls for more intensive solutions. Peels are the most accessible treatment for all skin types. AHA peels with stronger concentrations are more frequently used than those done at home.
"Repeated application of AHAs, such as mandelic, lactic, and glycolic acid, at intermediate strengths is often very beneficial for pigmentation of most types. For optimal results, AHA peels are typically performed once per month for four to six months. They can be used in conjunction with skincare and other therapies.
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Overall!
Dealing with dark spots on your skin can be annoying, but you can try many good treatments. There are many ways to make your skin tone even better. You can use face acids, moisturize skin, avoid picking at your skin, and use over-the-counter whitening products.
Using sunscreen that protects against different types of sun rays and getting professional treatments like peels can greatly help your skin. By learning what causes your skin problems and trying different treatments, you can have healthier and more glowing skin. Get advice from a skin doctor to figure out what kind of skin you have and what it needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the methods of treating hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone?
Ans. Start by exfoliating using face acids such as glycolic or salicylic acid. Use moisturizers containing Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate the skin, and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. For dark spots, you can also try over-the-counter retinoids, vitamin C, or kojic acid products, which can help lighten these areas. In the case of severe conditions, you can opt for chemical peels or laser therapy.
2. How do I even make my skin tone?
Ans. Begin with a mild cleanser and a toner. Exfoliate consistently and apply brightening serums like Vitamin C or Niacinamide. Sun protection should always be used to prevent further damage. Retinol moisturizer will affect texture and tone favorably over time.
3. What is the most effective way to even out hyperpigmentation?
Ans. Exfoliate your skin using Lactic Acid or Glycolic Acid face acids. Use serums that brighten your complexion, such as those containing Vitamin C, Kojic Acid, or Licorice Root Extract in their formulas. Don't forget to apply SPF 30+ sunscreens daily on your face and your body if there is any exposed area of it, though it’s not recommended for everyone since they have different types of skin; thus, a dermatologist consultation is needed before receiving this treatment.
