How to treat hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a term that refers to a skin condition in which the skin is darkened.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
This can make spots or patches of skin appear darker than surrounding areas.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by sun damage, inflammation, or other skin injuries, including those related to acne vulgaris.
Many forms of hyperpigmentation are caused by an excess production of melanin.
It affects people of all skin types but people with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation, especially with excess sun exposure.
Depending on the type of disorder, other risk factors for hyperpigmented patches may include:
Generally, they appear as spots on areas exposed to the sun, like the hands and face.
Essential skincare routine
Sunscreen is the single most important factor in improving most causes of hyperpigmentation. Look for:
- a physical blocking sunscreen, preferably with zinc oxide as the main active ingredient
- at least an SPF 30 to 50
- broad spectrum coverage
Use a sunscreen daily.
Reapply it every 2 hours if you’re out in the sun and more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
Professional treatments
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, and there are a number of different professional treatment options available.
They reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing the epidermis.
Chemical peels are a fast, effective and non-invasive skin treatment, for immediate cell renewal and a refreshed complexion.
The treatment consists of a single session at your Believe in Beautiful clinic where your skin therapist will apply 1 active face mask which is then left to work for 8 to 12 hours, according to the phototype and sensitivity of the skin to be treated.
After this time has elapsed the mask is removed at home.
48 hours later, the follow-up phase is started with the application of your “at home” treatment pack. Results should be expected in 10-14 days.
This follow-up phase is carried out for 6 months to achieve an optimal result and prevent the reappearance of spots.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
This can make spots or patches of skin appear darker than surrounding areas.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by sun damage, inflammation, or other skin injuries, including those related to acne vulgaris.
Many forms of hyperpigmentation are caused by an excess production of melanin.
It affects people of all skin types but people with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation, especially with excess sun exposure.
Depending on the type of disorder, other risk factors for hyperpigmented patches may include:
- oral contraceptive use or pregnancy, as seen with melasma
- darker skin type, which is more prone to pigmentation changes
- drugs that increase your sensitivity to the sunlight
- trauma to the skin, such as a wound or superficial burn injury
- Sunspots: Also called liver spots or solar lentigines, sunspots are common.
Generally, they appear as spots on areas exposed to the sun, like the hands and face.
- Melasma: Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that's more commonly seen in women (especially in those with darker skin tones) and is thought to be triggered by UV exposure, as well as hormonal influences.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is a result of injury or inflammation to the skin. A common cause of this type is acne.
Essential skincare routine
Sunscreen is the single most important factor in improving most causes of hyperpigmentation. Look for:
- a physical blocking sunscreen, preferably with zinc oxide as the main active ingredient
- at least an SPF 30 to 50
- broad spectrum coverage
Use a sunscreen daily.
Reapply it every 2 hours if you’re out in the sun and more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.
Professional treatments
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, and there are a number of different professional treatment options available.
- Chemical Peels
They reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing the epidermis.
Chemical peels are a fast, effective and non-invasive skin treatment, for immediate cell renewal and a refreshed complexion.
- Hydra-Microdermabrasion
- Improved skin tone, texture and colour
- Faster skin cell renewal as a result of stimulated circulation of blood flow
- Reduced visible skin imperfections
- Increased efficacy of your skincare products
- Cleared congestion, blackheads and minimised pores
- Smooth and even skin tone
- Improved lymphatic drainage
- Minimised fine lines and wrinkles
- Believe in Beautiful De-pigmentation PRO Treatment
The treatment consists of a single session at your Believe in Beautiful clinic where your skin therapist will apply 1 active face mask which is then left to work for 8 to 12 hours, according to the phototype and sensitivity of the skin to be treated.
After this time has elapsed the mask is removed at home.
48 hours later, the follow-up phase is started with the application of your “at home” treatment pack. Results should be expected in 10-14 days.
This follow-up phase is carried out for 6 months to achieve an optimal result and prevent the reappearance of spots.