Hypo/Hyperpigmentation: Comprehensive Guide and Treatment

The main cause of hyperpigmentation is due to an increase in melanin production, and can be triggered in conditions like pregnancy or Addison’s disease. Excessive exposure to sunlight can also cause melanin production to go into overdrive, thereby leading to hyperpigmentation. Various drugs like antibiotics and antimalarial drugs can also cause skin darkening.

Melasma:

Melasma is a chronic hyperpigmentation face condition. It is triggered due to hormonal conditions like pregnancy and is often called the mask of pregnancy. It is recognized by the brown patches that occur on the face. Men can also develop this condition, due to a hormonal imbalance.

Usually, Melasma subsides when the hormones are balanced and the pregnancy period is over. However, if it doesn’t then the condition can be treated with prescription creams and medicines. You need to visit a dermatologist if the melasma persists (or gets severe) even after pregnancy.

If you are experiencing Melasma then you have to try reducing any unnecessary exposure to sunlight. If you have to head out then wear a broad-brimmed hat, use a sunscreen that has an SPF higher than 30,  PA FACTOR (3+), and wear clothing that will protect you from UVA and UVB rays. Once again, consult with your dermatologist to prevent your condition from getting worse.

Hypopigmentation happens when melanin production is less than normal. Some examples of hypopigmentation include:

Vitiligo is the condition is where smooth, white patches start to develop on the skin. Some people may experience this all over their body. This is an autoimmune condition where the cells that produce melanin are destroyed. However, many treatments help with this condition like a cosmetic cover-up, corticosteroid creams, calcineurin inhibitors, and ultraviolet treatments. Many prescription topical treatments are available. You must consult with your dermatologist before deciding on any treatment.

This is a rare hypopigmentation disorder that is inherited, and it’s caused due to the absence of enzymes that produce melanin. The reduced melanin production results in less pigmentation in hair, skin, and eyes. People who have Albinism, possess an abnormal gene that restricts the body from producing melanin. There is no cure for this condition. People with albinism must use sunscreen, every time, because they stand a high risk of developing skin cancer and sun damage. This disorder can affect any race, but it’s quite dominant in Caucasians.

If you have suffered through skin damage like infections, rashes, blisters, burns, or external trauma, you may also notice a pigmentation loss in the affected area. The positive aspect of this condition is that it’s not permanent, but the healing and re-pigmentation process can take a long time. You can opt for cosmetics to cover the affected area until the body starts regenerating the pigment. If you want to speed up the re-pigmentation process then it’s best to consult with a dermatologist before taking up any treatments or prescription medicines.

What are the main treatments for skin hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition and their many treatment options available. Ensure that you consult with your dermatologist because they will suggest the best treatment that will suit your skin, gauge the severity, and provide you with the best results. Some popular treatment options are:

• Lightening creams
• Face acids
• Retinoids
• Laser peels
• Chemical peels
• Intense pulse light therapy
• Microdermabrasion
• Dermabrasion

It can take 3 to 6months, the whole healing process depends on the treatment you choose and the severity of your condition. The period for hyperpigmentation to fade depends on the spot darkness when compared to the surrounding skin. The bigger the contrast, the more time it will take to fade.

Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation is a partial or complete loss of skin pigmentation that takes place after bouts of cutaneous inflammation. The severity of the pigment loss depends on the degree and extent of inflammation.

This condition is also known as periocular pigmentation, dark circles, or infraorbital discoloration. It can be caused due to various reasons like genetics, excessive sun exposure, and age. Hormonal imbalance can also cause periorbital hyperpigmentation.

Excessive sun exposure or lack of adequate skincare could turn disastrous with the appearance of dark spots and an unevenly toned complexion. We can help you recover your skin tone through evidence-based treatment methods and are transparent about the expected results to ensure customer satisfaction. We pride ourselves on giving patients great care and guidance during the pre and post-op stages, instead of treating it as a one-time session.

ClearSkin provides specialized Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation treatment options with the help of a team of qualified dermatologists and the latest technology. Combined treatment plans ensure permanent solutions for your skin problems with advice and follow-up care to maintain your complexion.

You can trust our in-house team of highly experienced dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons because they use top-of-the-line, FDA approved equipment, along with holistic treatment modalities to help treat even the most complex skin conditions.