What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation on face occurs due to the fact that face is one of the most exposed body parts to the sun and anyone can be affected by it. This darkening is brought about by a production of melanin which is the pigment that causes the skin color to be produced in excess in some areas.
Common Causes of Hyperpigmentation on Face
Facial hyperpigmentation may be caused by many factors, and identifying the causative factors is the initial step towards an effective treatment.
Sun Exposure
The ultraviolet (UV) rays are one of the most common villains. When there is prolonged exposure of the sun, it causes melanocytes to overproduce melanin that causes sunspots and freckles.
Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy or use of birth control may cause melasma which is a form of hyperpigmentation caused by fluctuation of hormones.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
PIH is developed following an injury or inflammation of the skin i.e. acne, cuts or eczema. It is especially frequent in dark skin.
Melasma
Known as the mask of pregnancy, melasma brings about brown or gray-brown spots, and the majority of them are on the face. It has a strong connection with the exposure to sun and hormonal changes.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Although hyperpigmentation can be developed by anyone, there are individuals who are more susceptible to it:
- Individuals with darker skin colour
- Individuals that have exposure to the sun are very
- common Individuals who have acne or skin wounds in the past
- Pregnant mums or Hormonal medications
Types of Hyperpigmentation on Face
The type of hyperpigmentation should also be identified in order to ascertain the best treatment method.
Age Spots
These dark spots are often called liver spots and they appear due to aging and long exposure to the sun.
Fine, focal deposits of melanin, the number of which increases with sun exposure, are found in light complexioned individuals.
Melasma
And more often, more symmetrical face lesions, the cheeks and upper lip.
PIH
They are dark marks that develop after a skin inflammation or injury and they are especially tenacious on dark skins.
Topical Treatments for Hyperpigmentation
There are different over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription creams which can lighten dark spots and enhance the general skin tone.
One of the most researched and topical skin-lighteners. Apply with supervision of dermatologist because it has side effects.
Retinoids
Derivatives of vit A that increase skin cell turnover and gradually lightens dark spots.
Vitamin C
An antioxidant that inhibits melanin production and stimulates collagen to provide anti ageing benefits.
Azelaic Acid
Best on acne and hyperpigmentation particularly PIH with very less irritations.
Professional Treatments
In some cases, topical creams do not suffice. Professional procedures provide more intense solutions in such instances.
Chemical Peels
Exfoliate the skin using acids (such as glycolic or salicylic) which will lessen pigmentation in the long run.
Microdermabrasion
Mellow exfoliation mechanism that will help remove dead skin cells on the skin surface.
Laser Therapy
It hits pigmented locations with light energy. One of such types is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) or fractional lasers.
Microneedling
Fine needles are used to stimulate the collagen to smooth the skin and enhance skin tone, it is also effective on PIH and melasma.
Best Skincare Routine to Prevent and Treat Hyperpigmentation on Face
The dark spots may be improved greatly with a specific skincare regimen.
- Morning: Cleanse -> C serum -> Moisturiser -> 30+ broad spectrum spf
- Evening: Light cleanse –> Retinoid –> Moisturiser
Make sure you do not neglect exfoliation once a week and do not use harsh scrubs.
Lifestyle Changes That Help
- When out of doors wear a hat of large brim.
- Choose mineral based sunscreens.
- Never squeeze, pick, pop or rub acne or pimple scars.
- Decreased stress, healthy sleeping
- Consume food that contains antioxidants in it
Myths About Hyperpigmentation Debunked
MYTH: Hyperpigmentation is only developed by dark skin people
FACT: It is more visible on the darker tones, but it can be done with any color.MYTH: Indoors you do not need sunscreen
FACT: UVs get through windows.MYTH: In one night you can bleach hyperpigmentation
FACT: Treatment needs to be consistent and time consuming.
Conclusion
Facial hyperpigmentation can be exasperating, but it can be addressed on a plan. Whether it is topical solutions, professional treatment, natural solutions and lifestyle changes, there is a solution that fits all. The trick is to be consistent, protect your skin and allow it to heal.
FAQs
Time required for treatment is various. Milder cases may take a few weeks to fade, more severe pigmentation may take months to disappear.
Sunscreen is used to protect your skin against the sun, however it is more effective when it is combined with protective clothing and when you do not spend so much time in the sun.
Hyperpigmentation has no definite cure. Nevertheless, it can be treated and significantly transformed with consistent attention by the majority of the population.
Yes, 2 percent at most, over-the-counter, and 4 percent under prescription, but only dermatologically.
Fruit, leafy vegetables and nuts are antioxidant rich foods, which allow the skin to repair and conserve overall health.