What's The Best Way to Treat Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is one of many skin concerns that has many causes. Darker patches of skin create an uneven skin tone that some may feel self-conscious about.

Several conditions can cause hyperpigmentation to pop up on your face or body. Treating the symptom is only part of the equation. Understanding the cause can help prevent further concerns in the future.

Today, we’re looking at this widespread issue's causes and common treatments. You’ll discover that while it takes consistency, restoring your skin to its former luster is possible!

What causes hyperpigmentation?

Between external trauma and internal changes, your skin goes through a lot! Melanocytes typically protect the skin from excess UV radiation. Even tanning is a sign that your skin cells are working correctly.

Uneven mottling of the skin is a sign that there’s something not functioning correctly. Repeated sun exposure, skin damage, and genetic or hormonal changes all affect your skin.

There are three primary causes of hyperpigmentation in the human body.

Too much sun exposure leads to hyperpigmentation

When you’re young, spending days out on the beach or pool and getting a sunburn seems like a right of passage. But years later, you might have hyperpigmentation as a reminder of your youthful ways.

Sunspots are darkened patches of skin that appear in areas exposed to the sun. They usually appear on the face and hands after years of exposure.

Rashes commonly cause hyperpigmentation

Rashes and skin infections like acne can lead to hyperpigmentation. Heat exhaustion can lead to flushed skin that doesn’t clear when your body temperature returns to normal. You'll still have uneven skin tone once the initial concern has gone away. 

Acne typically has redness associated with the infection that can become post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Burns and other skin traumas like chaffing can also cause darkening in the surrounding tissue. Unexpectedly, cold temperatures can also increase the risk of hyperpigmentation by drying out and damaging your skin!

Medical conditions and hormonal changes

Sometimes, hyperpigmentation is a result of hormonal shifts that result from pregnancy or birth control. Usually, this concern presents around the belly and face, but it can appear anywhere on the body. 

Other medications that contribute to melasma include some anti-seizure and phototoxic drugs. 

Genetics plays a factor as well. If you have family members with the condition, you’re more likely to develop it yourself.

The most effective ways to treat hyperpigmentation

Because hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern, experts have developed several treatments with good results. One or more of these may work for you, depending on the cause and extent of your hyperpigmentation.

Chemical peels are highly effective in treating hyperpigmentation

Chemical peels remove the top layer of your skin by applying acidic compounds. Your esthetician can provide superficial treatments in the salon that can help. Keratinized cells on the top layers of the skin carry the melanin melanocytes produce. When the dead skin sheds through chemical exfoliation, your new skin cells won’t necessarily contain the same level of melanin.

At Face First Beauty, we utilize BioRePeel and Perfect Derma Peel to effectively treat hyperpigmented skin.

Retinols are a great skincare addition

Compounds that contain retinoids, or vitamin A, are popular over-the-counter treatment options for hyperpigmentation. By penetrating deep into the skin, they can naturally reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone. OTC versions aren’t as powerful as prescription options, so you may want to see your doctor if they’re not working for you.

Jan Marini Luminate Retinol is our recommended product. It’s designed to be an effective approach to reducing hyperpigmentation!

JetPlasma

JetPlasma treatment is a cutting-edge solution for hyperpigmentation, offering remarkable results with its innovative technology. By combining the power of plasma energy with the precision of jet technology, JetPlasma effectively targets and reduces hyperpigmented areas on the skin. 

This non-invasive procedure works by delivering controlled bursts of plasma energy to the affected areas, stimulating cellular regeneration and promoting even skin tone. Unlike traditional methods, JetPlasma is gentle on the skin, minimizing discomfort and downtime while maximizing efficacy. It can address various types of hyperpigmentation, including age spots, sun damage, and melasma!

Microchanneling

Microchanneling has emerged as a highly effective treatment for hyperpigmentation, offering a gentle yet powerful solution to address uneven skin tone and discoloration. During a microchanneling session, tiny needles create micro-injuries in the skin, triggering the body's natural healing response. 

This process stimulates collagen production and increases cell turnover, leading to the gradual fading of hyperpigmented areas. Additionally, microchanneling facilitates the penetration of topical serums and lightening agents, enhancing their efficacy in targeting hyperpigmentation at a deeper level.

Other considerations for treating hyperpigmentation

Depending on what’s causing your condition, treating hyperpigmentation is a bit of trial and error. While the cause of your concern is one consideration, you’ll also want to look at other factors.

Do you have other skin concerns?

If you’re seeking treatment for hyperpigmentation, you likely have other skin concerns. Uneven skin texture, acne scarring, and even very sensitive or dry skin can exacerbate the condition. However, many treatments for hyperpigmentation can also improve these other concerns.

Chemical peels, retinoids, and resurfacing therapies can address many concerns simultaneously. At the same time, you may have concerns that rule out certain treatment options for your condition.

Consult with a professional to guide you to the best treatment

A skin care professional is a trusted source of information when seeking treatment for hyperpigmentation. They can customize a treatment protocol for your skin type and other factors. Estheticians and medical professionals can both guide your treatment.

Face First Beauty is here to help treat your hyperpigmentation!

Face First Beauty is ready to help address your hyperpigmentation needs in Riverside, California. Being surrounded by sunny beaches makes our area prone to sun exposure-caused skin concerns. Our team provides facials and chemical peels that can stop hyperpigmentation and restore your skin!

Check out our website to book a consultation today!