Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition where certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin. It occurs due to the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye colour.

Determining the type of hyperpigmentation you have is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment. Below are the main types of hyperpigmentation and their distinguishing features:

Melasma

• Appearance: Large, symmetrical dark patches, often on the face (forehead, cheeks, upper lip, chin).

• Causes: Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control), worsened by sun exposure and heat.

• Triggers: UV rays, heat (e.g., hot yoga, saunas).

• Skin Types: Common in women and darker skin tones.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

• Appearance: Dark spots following acne, eczema, or skin trauma.

• Causes: Excess melanin during the healing process.

• Triggers: Skin injuries, harsh treatments, insufficient sun protection.

• Skin Types: Affects all skin types but lasts longer in darker tones.

Sunspots (Solar Lentigines)

• Appearance: Small, flat dark spots on sun-exposed areas (face, hands, shoulders).

• Causes: Long-term UV exposure.

• Triggers: Tanning, sun exposure, lack of sunscreen.

• Skin Types: Common in fair skin but can occur in all tones.

Freckles (Ephelides)

• Appearance: Small, light-brown spots that darken with sun exposure.

• Causes: Genetic predisposition, intensified by sunlight.

• Triggers: Sun exposure, lack of sunscreen.

• Skin Types: Common in fair skin, especially red or blonde hair.

Other Types

• Medication-Induced Hyperpigmentation: Triggered by antibiotics, chemotherapy, or hormonal medications.

• Medical Condition-Related Pigmentation: Caused by disorders like Addison’s disease or thyroid abnormalities.

Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin production increases, leading to dark patches or spots on the skin. Contributing factors include:

• Sun Exposure: Unprotected exposure to UV rays stimulates melanin production, resulting in sunspots, age spots, and uneven pigmentation.

• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during pregnancy, menopause, or the use of hormonal contraceptives, can lead to melasma.

• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Skin trauma or inflammation from acne, eczema, cuts, or other injuries can lead to darkened areas as the skin heals.

• Stress: High cortisol levels from chronic stress can disrupt skin balance, enhancing melanin activity and contributing to hyperpigmentation.

• Lifestyle Factors:

  • Diet and Habits: Poor nutrition, smoking, and insufficient sleep can weaken the skin's defenses and contribute to uneven skin tone.

  • Workouts: Intense exercise such as hot yoga, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), or other high-sweat activities can exacerbate pigmentation if combined with insufficient cooling, improper skincare, or sun exposure immediately afterward. Heat can increase inflammation, which may worsen melasma and other pigment-related conditions.

• Medications: Certain drugs, such as antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and chemotherapy agents, can induce pigmentation as a side effect.

• Medical Conditions: Disorders like Addison's disease, thyroid abnormalities, or deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12) can also trigger or worsen hyperpigmentation.

Understanding these factors is critical for tailoring effective treatment and prevention strategies.

Treatment options are customized to your skin's needs and can include:

Pico Laser

• For deeper pigmentation issues such as melasma or stubborn spots.

Ultra Laser

• Targets surface-level pigmentation and is ideal for sensitive skin.

Unsure which option suits your skin?

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Visible results often start appearing after 1-2 treatments, with full improvement typically requiring 4-6 treatments, depending on the treatment and severity of the pigmentation​.

Most clients need between 3-6 treatments, with intervals of a 4-6 weeks between treatments. The exact number of treatments depends on the type and depth of pigmentation.

To maintain results and prevent hyperpigmentation from returning, follow these steps:

Daily Sunscreen

Use a Medical-Grade Sunscreen with every day, and reapply every 2 hours, even in cloudy weather.

Sun Protection

Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing when outdoors.

Expert Care

Schedule regular skin check-ups and follow your Medical Aesthetician's advice to maintain your results.

Skincare Routine

Incorporate antioxidants like Vitamin C and products with Retinol or Niacinamide to strengthen your skin and regulate pigmentation.

Avoid Skin Trauma

Be gentle with your skin to prevent irritation or inflammation that can lead to dark spots.

Manage Lifestyle Factors

Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking.

Be cautious with heat-inducing activities like hot yoga or HIIT workouts, which may exacerbate Melasma or PIH.

Awareness of Triggers

Identify and avoid triggers like hormonal changes, stress, or medication side effects whenever possible.

By combining these strategies, you can minimize the chances of pigmentation returning and keep your skin healthy and radiant.

While hyperpigmentation often fades with Skin Treatments and Skin Products, some forms, particularly those linked to medical conditions, may persist. Early intervention and consistent care can help significantly.

For expert guidance, book your Skin Consultation today to start your journey toward brighter, even-toned skin!