Coping with Hyperpigmentation

While hyperpigmentation is a common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding skin, anyone suffering from this knows how frustrating it can be. The good news is there are some effective treatments to help reduce hyperpigmentation the right way…

Sun Protection

  • Wearing a sunscreen is a must. The sunscreen must be “broad spectrum” which means that it blocks both UVA and UVB. It should be reapplied after every two hours during the day.
  • It is also important to avoid intense sun exposure, as UV rays in sunlight stimulate melanin production. In strong, direct sun, wear a hat and long sleeves.
  • Avoid using tanning beds.

Treatments

Chemical Peel
A chemical peel consists of an application of an acid solution that removes damaged outer layers of skin. Acids that are commonly used include alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or salicylic acid. Great care should be taken though as pigment irregularities and scarring can occur if not done by an experienced clinician with close follow-up.

Laser Peel
There are now several highly effective laser treatments. The Q-switched Ruby and other pigmented lesion lasers often remove pigment without scarring. A test spot in an inconspicuous place will need to be done as they sometimes make things worse instead of better.

Topical Skin Lightening Products
Products containing skin lightening ingredients, such as hydroquinone, retinoids, Kojic acid, and vitamin C are often used to reduce hyperpigmentation. These topical agents exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin, and are helpful in treating hyperpigmentation of all types. Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent which lightens and fades darkened skin patches by slowing the production of melanin so those dark spots gradually fade to match normal skin coloration. It can be mixed with tretinoin and cortisone cream for severe cases. It takes almost three to six months to produce visible improvement.

Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a gentle physical form of exfoliation. During microdermabrasion, the uppermost layer of skin is gently removed to get rid of sunspots, darkness, and other types of superficial and minimal discoloration.

(Credit: Dr. Lubna Gul, specialist dermatologist from Medcare Medical Center, Sharjah)