Hyperpigmentation refers to patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin. This can lead to the appearance of an uneven skin tone. It’s an issue that affects many of us, particularly those living in sunny climates. Many different conditions can cause hyperpigmentation and lots of treatments are available, but which one is right for you really depends on the cause. One thing that is key for all cases of hyperpigmentation? Strict sun protection, of course!
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of skin that are more pigmented, or darker, than the surrounding skin. There are many causes of hyperpigmentation. These include solar lentigines or age spots, freckles, moles and birthmarks, melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, medications, and some medical conditions.
The most common causes of facial pigmentation are solar lentigines, freckles and melasma. It’s important to have your hyperpigmentation diagnosed correctly.
What can I do to fade the appearance of my hyperpigmentation?
Treatment depends on the cause, and it’s important to have your hyperpigmentation diagnosed correctly before starting treatment. Not all treatments are suitable for all kinds of hyperpigmentation. Some treatments can make pigmentation worse, and it’s important that anything dangerous, such as a melanoma, is ruled out before having treatment.
Sunscreen is helpful for almost all forms of hyperpigmentation. Studies suggest that the correct use of sunscreen can fade the appearance of melasma by up to 50%.
Many topical ingredients can be helpful for improving hyperpigmentation. These include: vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha hydroxy acids such as glycolic and lactic acid, retinoids, hydroquinone, alpha arbutin, licorice root extract, kojic acid, azelaic acid and resveratrol.
For certain types of pigmentation, chemical peels, intense pulsed light and laser treatments may be suitable. Assessment by a qualified clinician is essential.
Oral tranexamic acid is used in some cases of melasma.
