Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that makes some areas of the skin darker than others. Extra melanin creates spots or patches that look brown, black, gray, red or pink. The areas are not painful or itchy, but they can make people self-conscious. Several lifestyle changes and treatments can help, especially sun protection and skin care.
Types of Hyperpigmentation
There are several types of hyperpigmentation, the common ones being melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Melasma
Melasma is believed to be caused by hormonal changes and may develop during pregnancy. Areas of hyperpigmentation can appear on any area of the body, but they appear most commonly on the stomach and face.
Sunspots
Also called liver spots or solar lentigines, sunspots are common. They’re related to excess sun exposure over time. Generally, they appear as spots on areas exposed to the sun, like the hands and face.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
This is a result of injury or inflammation of the skin. A common cause of this type is acne.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Skin gets its color from a substance called melanin, which is made by skin cells. When those skin cells are damaged or unhealthy, they can produce too much melanin. The melanin can clump, causing that area to appear darker.
How to Treat and Prevent Hyperpigmentation
Keep Skin Moist to Boost Cell Turnover
While your primary goal with hyperpigmentation is to lighten the dark spots, an effective over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizer should contain ingredients that benefit the skin in other ways.
A good moisturizer can also restore the skin’s lipid, or fat, barrier, helping new skin cells stay healthy as they rise to the surface in place of old ones.
Protect Your Skin From the Sun
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.
Chemical Peel
Chemical peels can help over time if the hyperpigmentation is related to sun exposure. During a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to your skin, which causes trauma or injury to your skin’s layers. The skin layers eventually peel off revealing more youthful skin. The new skin is usually smoother with fewer lines and wrinkles, has a more even color, and is brighter in complexion.
HydroSonic Infusion Facial
A cutting-edge skincare treatment that combines hydrodermabrasion, ultrasonic technology, and nutrient infusion to deliver remarkable benefits to your skin. This advanced facial treatment offers a range of advantages, leaving your skin refreshed, rejuvenated, and glowing.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a way to treat hyperpigmentation, give the team at Elite Facials a call today! We offer a variety of facial treatments designed to get your face looking smooth and youthful.