how to repair hyperpigmentation

Best Ways to Treat Hyperpigmentation

• Keep Skin Hydrated to Boost Cell Turnover. Hydration is key for most issues that affect the skin and hyperpigmentation...
• Sun Protection. Daily use of SPF 30 or higher is recommended in the prevention of further darkening of your...
• Cosmeceuticals in Skin Care.

Full Answer

Which laser treatment is best for your hyperpigmentation?

“Lasers are not always the most effective at eliminating hyperpigmentation, but there are certain conditions where lasers are incredibly effective. Light- and laser-based therapies include broad-band light (BBL), Q-switched lasers, Nd:Yag lasers, picosecond lasers, and fractionated resurfacing lasers.

What is hyperpigmentation and how can it be prevented?

applying antioxidants such as topical vitamin C can help treat existing hyperpigmentation and prevent new hyperpigmentation from forming, the experts said. Zeichner advises his patients with all ...

Can hyperpigmentation be cured permanently?

hyperpigmentation doesn’t always fade Hyperpigmentation will be permanent even if you treat it. It can take up to two years to see an improvement. It depends on how dark your skin is and how muchyperpigmentation you have. What hormone causes hyperpigmentation?

How to get rid of hyperpigmentation on face fast?

To try your own version of this hyperpigmentation treatment at home:

• Add a tablespoon of fresh black tea leaves to a cup of boiling distilled water.
• Steep for two hours and strain to remove the leaves.
• Soak a cotton ball in the tea water and apply to areas of hyperpigmentation, twice a day.
• Repeat every day for six days a week, over four weeks.

Can hyperpigmentation be cured naturally?

Aloe vera contains aloin, a natural depigmenting compound that has been shown to lighten skin and work effectively as a nontoxic hyperpigmentation treatment, according to a 2012 study. To use: Apply pure aloe vera gel to pigmented areas before bedtime. Rinse using warm water the next morning.

How long does hyperpigmentation take to go away?

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade? Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years.

Can hyperpigmentation be gone?

Hyperpigmentation can go away on its own, dependent on the cause, but it may take a long time to fade. Some cases of hyperpigmentation may never go away completely.

Can hyperpigmentation be fixed?

Chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or dermabrasion are all options that work similarly to rid skin of hyperpigmentation. These procedures work to gently remove the top layer of your skin where the dark spots lie.

Why is my hyperpigmentation not fading?

You're switching products too often. If you've been frustrated by dark spots that won't seem to budge no matter what products you try, you're not alone. “It can take several months or years for dark spots to fade, and it really depends upon the individual's skin type and severity of the pigmentation,” says Dr.

Does vitamin C help with hyperpigmentation?

It helps fade hyperpigmentation Vitamin C inhibits melanin synthesis by downregulating the activity of an enzyme known as tyrosinase. It's widely used in dermatology for depigmentation of hyperpigmented spots on the skin.

How do you fade hyperpigmentation fast?

Committing to a dark-spot-correcting serum with any and all of the brightening ingredients we mentioned before (vitamin c, retinol, tranexamic acid, kojic acid)—can significantly speed up the process and help fade dark spots even faster.

Does hyperpigmentation get darker before it fades?

Yes. Active treatment accelerates cell turnover, pulling pigmented cells to the surface at a faster rate. This increases the concentration of melanin in the epidermis, which can create a temporary darkening of the spots. The darkening means the pigment is coming up and is ready to be shed away.

How can I lighten my pigmentation?

Start with topical OTC whitening creams. “Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist.

Which cream is best for hyperpigmentation?

Topical creamsazelaic acid.cysteamine cream.vitamin C.hydroquinone.corticosteroids.kojic acid.retinoids, such as tretinoin.arbutin.More items...

Which product is best for hyperpigmentation?

11 Best Skincare Products for Hyperpigmented SkinRetinol. ... The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10 Percent. ... Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops. ... Glycolic Acid Face Wash Exfoliating Cleanser. ... The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2 Percent Plus HA Hyperpigmentation Serum. ... Fenty Skin By Rihanna Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer.More items...•

How can I reduce hyperpigmentation on my face?

How to prevent hyperpigmentationAvoid direct sunlight. Try to stay out of the sun during the peak hours of 10 am to 2 pm. ... Use a hat. Shade your face and scalp with a wide-brimmed hat.Incorporate Vitamin C into your beauty routine. ... Apply SPF. ... Limit touching your skin.

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to lighten?

The new patches of hyperpigmentation may lighten after about eight weeks.

What is hyperpigmentation on skin?

What you can do. Hyperpigmentation is a medical term used to describe darker patches of skin. These patches result from excess melanin production, which can be caused by everything from acne scars and sun damage to hormone fluctuations. If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, know that you aren’t alone. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin ...

What is microdermabrasion used for?

Microdermabrasion is an in-office procedure used to treat hyperpigmentation that affects the epidermis only (superficial scarring).

What is the best cream for oily skin?

ProActiv Complexion Perfecting Hydrator. Best for oily skin, this lightening cream reduces redness and hyperpigmentation all in one product.

How does a chemical peel work?

Chemical peel. A chemical peel uses acids at stronger concentrations to treat the desired area of skin. They reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing the epidermis. Deeper versions may also penetrate the middle layer of your skin (dermis) to produce more dramatic results.

What is laser peel?

Laser peel (skin resurfacing) A laser peel (resurfacing) treatment uses targeted beams of light to reduce hyperpigmentation. There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers are the most intense, and they involve removing layers of your skin.

Is hyperpigmentation a common skin condition?

If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, know that you aren’t alone. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, and there are a number of different treatment options available.

How to get rid of hyperpigmentation?

Visit a salon for a microdermabrasion treatment. This is a very popular option among people with hyperpigmentation. Seek an experienced practitioner; abrading the skin can cause irritation, making the discoloration worse. Microdermabrasion should not be done too often, as your skin needs time to heal between treatments.

What is the best treatment for hyperpigmentation?

Mandelic acid. Derived from almonds, this type of acid is used to treat all types of hyperpigmentation. Consider getting a nonablative professional procedure. If topical treatments don't work, your dermatologist might recommend getting a procedure done to target your hyperpigmentation.

How to treat hyperpigmentation without a prescription?

If you want to treat hyperpigmentation without getting a prescription, look for these over-the-counter options: Skin lightening creams. These works by slowing down melanin production and removing existing melanin from the skin.

What are the different types of hyperpigmentation?

Here are the four types of hyperpigmentation: Melasma. This type of hyperpigmentation is caused by hormonal fluctuations, and is a normal occurrence during pregnancy. It can also occur as a result of thyroid dysfunction and as a side effect of taking birth control pills or hormone therapy medication.

What causes age spots?

Lentigines. These are also known as liver spots or age spots. They are found on 90% of people over the age of 60, and are usually caused by exposure to UV rays. Non-solar lentigines are caused by a larger systemic disorder.

What is the process of producing melanin?

Human skin contains melanocyte cells that produce melanin, a pigment found in the skin, hair and eyes, through a process called melanogenesis. Too much melanin leads to hyperpigmented skin, common examples of which include freckles and age spots.

Why does lichen planus go away?

Drug-induced hyperpigmentation. This secondary hyperpigmentation, known as lichen planus, occurs when drugs cause an inflammation and eruption on the skin.

How Can Hyperpigmentation Be Treated?

"Hyperpigmentation is multifactorial: There may be genetic, metabolic, hormonal and environmental factors, all acting as triggers," warns Sturnham, reminding us that there is no single therapy available that will completely cure hyperpigmentation. But with a more holistic, multitherapy approach, you can get great results. "Using a combination of at-home and in-clinic based procedures, we can generally achieve adequate reduction and even complete resolution in many patients," she promises.

How to protect skin from hyperpigmentation?

Her guide to defending your skin against hyperpigmentation is as follows: "Firstly, wear a day cream with a minimum of SPF 30 daily (yes, even on those grey and drizzly days), increasing to Factor 50 in hotter climates to help to prevent UV damage-induced pigmentation—the main causative factor for hyperpigmentation.".

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

"Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition that can affect all skin types and all ages, " explains Sturnham. If you have it, you'll start to notice patches on the skin that don't seem to match your normal skin color. It'll often show up as brown patches, not too dissimilar to large freckles. There are two classifications, Sturnham adds, "localized or diffuse, meaning it appears in small patches on the skin or as a larger area of altered pigmentation."

What happens when melanin is overproduced?

These pigment-producing cells that live at the dermo-epidermal junction and basal layers of our skin can become hyperactive if triggered and start overproducing melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation and sun spots," Sturnham breaks it down for us.

What does it mean when you wake up with brown patches on your forehead?

Hyperpigmentation is one of those annoying skincare concerns that seems to pop out from nowhere—it's as though you just wake up one morning and right there across your forehead, cheeks or chin is a smattering of brown-tinged patches that continue to taunt you every time you get even remotely close to a mirror.

What is the most important tool for hyperpigmentation?

And ultimately, Sturnham says, when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation one of the most important tools in your arsenal is simply patience. "Reassurance and time are also essential elements of a successful treatment program."

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?

While some types of hyperpigmentation, like the sort that comes after you've popped a rather big spot, will slowly fade, this can still take months. And there are other types (like the kind produced by UV exposure) that will take a little coaxing for it ever to fade.

How do you quickly fade hyperpigmentation?

Acne.org states that individuals should wear sunscreen and limit the time they expose their skin to the sun.

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?

The AAD explains that dark spots can take 6-12 months to fade, and if the darker pigment is deep into the skin, healing may take years.

How to protect yourself from hyperpigmentation?

You should also protect yourself against other common skin-darkening triggers by using acne medication to fight off pimples and bug spray to prevent bites.

How to prevent sun induced discoloration?

The most effective way to prevent sun-induced discoloration is to diligently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater , every day, even on cloudy or cool days. "UV rays just send the pigment into overdrive, turning dark spots darker," says Dr. Day.

What to do about brown spots on face?

Sunspots, acne scars, big brown patches — whatever the cause, you’ll be glad to know that unwanted speckling of your skin can usually be resolved with over-the-counter brighteners and lighteners or the professional-strength help of your dermatologist.

What is the best product for dark spots?

While your primary goal with hyperpigmentation is to lighten the dark spots, an effective over-the-counter (OTC) product should contain ingredients that benefit the skin in other ways. "In addition to addressing the pigment issues, a good product will have moisturizing agents like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, and maybe even a retinol to boost cell turnover," says Doris Day, MD, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Medical School in New York City and author of Beyond Beautiful : Using the Power of Your Mind and Aesthetic Breakthroughs to Look Naturally Young and Radiant. "These inactive ingredients allow the active brighteners to work more effectively." A good moisturizer can also restore the skin’s lipid (fat) barrier, helping to further protect it from the sun’s damaging rays, notes Harvard Health.

Why does my skin look darker than my natural skin tone?

It’s any patch of skin that looks darker than your natural skin tone due to overproduction of the brown pigment melanin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the most common causes of hyperpigmentation — which can affect people of all skin tones in varying degrees — are:

How to get rid of spots on face?

Start with topical OTC whitening creams. “Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist. Other spot-eradicating ingredients to look for in OTC treatments include hydroquinone, soy, arbutin, vitamin E, niacinamide, and n-acetyl glucosamine, according to the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. It’s important to read package instructions carefully, as applying too much of these products can be irritating to the skin. In addition, be patient: It can take weeks, even months, for OTC skin lightening agents to work.

What causes dark spots on skin?

Inflammation Skin trauma — such as acne, e czema, bug bites, cuts, scrapes, even scratching or friction from, say, vigorous rubbing — can set off inflammation. Inflammation, in turn, can send pigment-producing cells into high gear, leaving behind a dark spot after the injury has healed.

How can you treat hyperpigmentation?

To effectively treat hyperpigmentation, start a brightening skincare routine to help boost skin clarity. While hyperpigmentation will not go away overnight, using targeted serums and treatments can help speed up the process.

What is the best skincare routine for hyperpigmentation?

Start your routine with an exfoliating and brightening face wash to help remove dirt and pollution and gently slough away dead skin. Follow with a soothing treatment water and then target discolorations with a potent facial serum for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Round out your routine with a skin brightening moisturizer morning and night. During the day, always apply sunscreen to defend skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

What is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation?

When skin becomes irritated or damaged, it attempts to protect itself which can trigger melanocytes to become overactive and produce excess melanin. Acne blemishes are a common form of skin irritation which cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. After these blemishes clear, they may leave a post-acne markor dark spot.This form of hyperpigmentation is most common in medium to dark skin tones.

How does sun exposure cause hyperpigmentation?

Sun exposure is the leading cause of hyperpigmentation in fair-skinned individuals. III Even if you do not notice sunburn or damage after being out in the sun, UV rays can still cause pigment changes. In addition to forming new dark spots and discolorations, sun exposure can also cause existing hyperpigmentation to darken and become even more visible.

Does exfoliating skin help visibly reduce hyperpigmentation?

Healthy skin cell turnover is essential in helping visibly diminish dark spots and hyperpigmentation. While exfoliating skin will not provide instant results, it can help skin’s renewal process. However, be careful not to over-exfoliate or harshly scrub skinwhich can cause irritation that may even aggravate or intensify hyperpigmentation.

What causes oxidative damage to skin?

Pollution and free radicals can cause oxidative damage to the skin. As skin attempts to protect and defend itself from these external aggressors, melanocytes may overproduce melanin and form hyperpigmentation and discolorations.

What causes melanin to be overproduced?

Melanin overproduction has a number of causes including: 1 Skin Irritation or Damage 2 Sun Exposure 3 Pollution 4 Hormones and Genetics

How to remove hyperpigmentation?

Aloe vera can be applied by following these steps: Wash the hyperpigmented treatment area with warm water to remove surface debris. Apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel to the skin. Allow the gel to dry; leave on overnight. In the morning, rinse off any residual gel with warm water.

How to get rid of hyperpigmentation on face?

Wash the hyperpigmented treatment area with warm water to remove surface debris. Gently massage the lemon juice into the skin for several seconds. Wait 10 minutes; wash off with warm water. Most skin types should be able to tolerate a nightly application of lemon juice.

What are the most common forms of hyperpigmentation?

Three of the most common forms of hyperpigmentation are sun spots, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. Although research on the topic is currently limited, preliminary findings suggest that simple home remedies may be beneficial in treating all three types.

What is the best cream for sun spots?

OTC creams containing vitamin B-3 or niacinamide have shown potential as a treatment option for sun spots, melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide disrupts the process that triggers melanin production in the body, which can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

What is the best treatment for melasma?

Retinoids are among the most effective treatments available for addressing melasma and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Derived from vitamin A, retinoids vary in potency – from OTC products such as retinol to stronger formulations that require a prescription.

What are the benefits of retinoids?

When applied topically, retinoids promote the skin’s natural cell turnover rate and disrupt the melanin production process to help eliminate hyperpigmentation.

What causes dark spots on the face?

Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of hair and skin. This increase in production occurs unevenly across the skin, leading to the formation of melanin clusters. These clusters result in the appearance of scattered, dark spots.

Does pigment help with self esteem?

Pigment actually serves a special purpose. While distracting spots and muddy patches may not be doing your self ie - esteem any favors — they absorb light, you've probably noticed, muting skin's sparkle — they're actually born of good intentions.

Does pigment on the body require special treatment?

Despite what you may have heard, pigment on the body doesn't require special treatment. "With the exception of the delicate neck and chest, body skin is typically more resilient than the face," says Linder.

Can you treat melasma with laser?

"Treating them the same won’t lead to optimal results," says New York City board-certified dermatologist Dennis Gross. Doctors tread very lightly when addressing both hormonally charged melasma patches as well as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — the marks that commonly follow zits, bug bites, burns — because anything remotely irksome, even a well-meaning laser, can ignite pigment rather than reduce it. The least aggressive tack for these conditions is usually a series of mild chemical peels.

Can you use a chemical peel for hyperpigmentation?

Yes , serums, peels, and creams can help tremendously — but especially after dermatologistss make a dent in the problem by lifting and lightening the unwanted hyperpigmentation with professional-strength chemical peels and carefully calibrated lasers. And the approach is different for every patient; the exact protocol your doctor chooses ...

Does Linder use retinol?

Linder likes retinol serums for their ability to coax fresh, healthy skin to the surface while working to disperse melanin granules within the skin to break up dark spots, she says. Two to try: PCA Skin Intensive Brightening Treatment and Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair.