Understanding & Managing Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that affects people of all ages and skin types. It can be distressing and can contribute to a loss of self-confidence. The good news is that hyperpigmentation is a treatable condition, and with the right skin care knowledge and routine, you can achieve a more even and radiant complexion. In this blog we will highlight what hyperpigmentation is, its causes, prevention, and some effective treatment options.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of skin patches compared to the surrounding skin surface area. This happens when there is an excess production of melanin, the pigment located within the skin that is responsible for the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. Common types of hyperpigmentation include:

Melasma: Often called the “mask of pregnancy,” melasma appears as brown or gray-brown patches on the face, particularly the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It is often triggered by hormonal changes and sun exposure.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Occurs after skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, burns, or cuts. It manifests as dark spots or patches at the site of the healed wound.
Sunspots (Solar Lentigines): These are small, dark spots that develop on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, and arms. They are usually a result of cumulative sun damage over the years.
Freckles: Small, concentrated areas of melanin that may become more pronounced with sun exposure.

Now that we understand what hyperpigmentation is, let’s explore the factors that can cause it and what you can do to prevent it.

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Sun Exposure: While I love the sun, the UV rays from it stimulate melanin production, leading to sunspots and exacerbating other forms of hyperpigmentation.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills can trigger melasma.
Inflammation: Acne, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to developing hyperpigmentation.
Trauma or Injury: Any form of skin injury, including cuts, burns, or harsh treatments, can lead to hyperpigmentation. Did you know that just the simple act of spraying perfume on your skin can result in hyperpigmentation?

Preventing Hyperpigmentation

Prevention is often the best approach when it comes to hyperpigmentation. Here are some steps you can take to minimize your risk:

Sun Protection: Use and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days, and wear protective clothing like hats and sunglasses.
Limit Sun Exposure: Try to avoid peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and seek shade when outdoors.
Hormonal Control: If you are prone to melasma due to hormonal changes, discuss alternative birth control options with your healthcare provider.
Gentle Skincare: Avoid harsh skincare products and treatments that can cause inflammation and injury to your skin.
Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and manage stress, as these factors can affect your skin’s overall health.

Treating Hyperpigmentation

If you already have hyperpigmentation, there are several effective treatment options available. Professional skin care treatments like medical-grade peels, microdermabrasion and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy are popular options for improving the health and appearance of the skin. Here’s a closer look at each of these treatments:

Medical-grade Peels

1. What is it? A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure that involves the application of a chemical solution to the skin’s surface. This solution causes the top layers of the skin to exfoliate and peel off, revealing smoother, more even-toned skin underneath.
2. Types of peels: There are different types of chemical peels, including superficial, medium, and deep peels. The choice of peel depends on the skin concerns and the desired level of skin improvement.
3. Benefits:
  1. Exfoliation: Peels help remove dead skin cells, which can improve skin texture and appearance.
  2. Acne & acne scars: They can reduce acne breakouts and diminish the appearance of acne scars.
  3. Pigmentation: Peels can fade sunspots, age spots, & hyperpigmentation.
  4. Wrinkles & fine lines: They can minimize the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles.
4. Side effects: Can include redness, peeling, and temporary sensitivity. Deeper peels may have more downtime and potential complications, so they should be performed by trained professionals.
5. Who does them? A licensed Aesthetician can perform medical-grade or “chemical” peels. A peel removes the top layer of skin, reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. At Derma Bright Clinic we use several different types of peel brands including:
  1. AlumierMD: As most beneficial ingredients for the skin tend to degrade or denature when placed in the low pH of chemical peel formulas, AlumierMD peels use only the pure acids. Antioxidants, anti-aging and brightening booster ingredients are applied post-peel in our Brightening Accelerator so all components remain effective. Peels remove the outer dead layers of the stratum corneum, so the booster ingredients are better absorbed when applied post-peel. Our multilayer process can be customized by your skin care professional according to your skin profile and concerns.
  2. Alex Peel: From Germany and has been used since the 1950’s; it is the gold standard for herbal-based peels.
  3. PromoItalia: we carry a few of their peel products including:
    1. ZK Peel: From Italy, unique facial peel great for renewing skin structures & nourishing skin in depth.
    2. V Carbon: From Italy, anti aging peel brightens, purifies & detoxifies skin by stimulating collagen growth, improving skin texture & clearing pores
    3. Pink Intimate: Also from Italy, it helps to brighten the most delicate areas of the body, including under arms, nipples, armpits, bikini area., etc.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Laser Therapy

Certain lasers, such as the IPL, can target and break down melanin deposits in the skin.

1. What is it: IPL is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses high-intensity pulses of light to target various skin concerns. It’s often used for skin rejuvenation, hair removal, and to treat vascular and pigmented skin issues.
2. Benefits:
  1. Photorejuvenation: IPL can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone.
  2. Treatment of vascular issues: IPL can also reduce the appearance of broken blood vessels & redness associated with conditions like rosacea.
  3. Pigment correction: IPL can target and lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, such as age spots or sun damage.
3. Side effects: Common side effects include redness, swelling, and temporary darkening of pigmented spots. Patients should protect their skin from sun exposure after IPL treatments so must use sunscreen.

At Derma Bright Clinic we are big fans of the Icon IPL!

Microdermabrasion

This treatment exfoliates the top layer of skin, improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation. At Derma Bright Clinic we do a lot of microdermabrasion and clients love the way their skin feels after, smooth to the touch!

Topical Treatments

Products containing ingredients like hydroquinone, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or retinoids can help lighten dark spots over time.

Prescription Medications

In some cases, a dermatologist may prescribe stronger medications for stubborn hyperpigmentation.

When considering these treatments, it’s essential to consult with a qualified and experienced skin care professional, such as a licensed aesthetician. They can assess your skin’s specific needs and recommend the most suitable treatment based on your concerns and skin type.

It’s also crucial to understand that results may vary depending on individual skin characteristics and the specific treatment plan. Both chemical peels and IPL therapy require multiple sessions for optimal results, and aftercare, including sun protection and skincare products, plays a significant role in maintaining the improvements achieved through these treatments.

Conclusion

Hyperpigmentation is a common and treatable skin concern. With proper prevention measures, a consistent skin care routine, and the guidance of a licensed aesthetician, you can achieve a more even and radiant complexion. Remember that results may take time, so be patient and stay committed to your skin care regimen. Always consult with a skin care clinic for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Your journey to clearer, more youthful skin is within reach!

Derma Bright Clinic has been in business and doing skin care since 2012. We offer a number of different skin care protocols to manage your skin care concerns.

October starts off peel season and we are featuring a number of specials this month to help our clients get going. If you have never done one, book a FREE consult! If you regularly do facials, consider trying a peel!

To book, please visit Derma Bright Clinic!

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