Hyperpigmentation refers to patches of the skin darkening due to an excess production of melanin. It is often triggered by factors such as sun exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes, or skin injuries. Common types of hyperpigmentation include sunspots, age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Types of Hyperpigmentation
Understanding the different types of hyperpigmentation can help in identifying the right treatment:
- UV Hyperpigmentation (Sunspots): Caused by prolonged sun exposure, these are small, darkened patches that appear after sun exposure.
- Age Spots: Similar to sunspots, age spots appear as flat, dark areas and are usually found on sun-exposed areas of aging skin.
- Melasma: This type appears as larger, dark patches, often on the face, and is commonly triggered by hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or birth control use. It is worsened by inflammation and heat.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Red or purple toned spots that appear after an injury or trauma to the skin, such as acne or invasive cosmetic procedures in some cases.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin comes into contact with aggressors like heat, sun, or free radicals, the melanocyte cells release a pigment called melanin to shield the surrounding cells from DNA damage. The main causes include:
- Sun Exposure: UV rays stimulate melanin production, leading to dark spots.
- Inflammation: Skin injuries and conditions like acne or eczema can trigger excess melanin production.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy or from birth control, can cause melasma.
- Skin Injuries: Cuts, burns, and other injuries can lead to PIH.
- Medications: Medications, especially those that are hard on the liver
How Is Hyperpigmentation Treated?
Hyperpigmentation is usually diagnosed through a visual examination by a dermatologist or skin specialist. Treating hyperpigmentation first involves inhibiting tyrosinase - the enzyme that triggers melanocytes to produce the pigment melanin. Treatments can include:
In-Clinic Treatments:
- Mild chemical peels
- LED therapy
- IPL
- Microneedling
- Fractional Lasers
Skincare Products:
- AHA’s - Alpha Hydroxy Acids promote cellular exfoliation to brighten and fade existing hyperpigmentation.
- Concentrated Alpha Hydroxy Toner - high levels of glycolic acid, which is the smallest molecule size of AHA’s, meaning it penetrates the deepest and most efficiently.
- Vitamin A & C - These ingredients promote cellular turnover as well as provide a tyrosinase inhibiting effect, meaning they prevent the formation of pigment in the skin. They also act as antioxidanst which fight free radical damage and promote skin health.
- AVST Moisturiser 1 - contains vitamin A, C, E and Antioxidants which work in conjunction to normalize the skin cells and protect from future damage
- Alpha Arbutin - A naturally occurring antioxidant that inhibits melanin synthesis by inhibition of tyrosinase activity, creating a brightening effect on the skin.
- Mela Prep Lotion - Contains a combination of ingredients like alpha arbutin, niacinamide, and SepiWhite which work together to inhibit the formation of pigment and promote an even skin tone.
- Niacinamide - Niacinamide enhances epidermal cell turnover and melanogenesis inhibition resulting in brighter, more even toned skin.
- Mela Fade Serum System - The Mela-Fade Serum System contains a concentrated blend of vitamins and botanicals to target the appearance of discoloration. These two serums work in combination to fade the appearance of pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and dark spots.
- SPF - UV rays trigger the production of melanin, which acts as our skin's natural defense against the sun's harmful effects. However, an excessive amount of melanin can lead to dark spots, especially in areas exposed to the sun. Wear SPF to safely and effectively block UV rays.
- Coola Classic Face SPF 50 - This skin-loving SPF50 is combined with antioxidant rich plant cell actives to provide ultimate protection against burning UVB and ageing UVA rays. It is fragrance-free, making it suitable for all skin types.
Lifestyle:
- Supplementation with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Omega 3’s
- Wear SPF daily and reapply
- Wear hats and sunglasses
- Avoid overheating
- Speak to your doctor about changing hormonal contraceptives
How Is Hyperpigmentation Prevented?
Preventing hyperpigmentation involves protecting the skin from triggers that increase melanin production:
- Daily Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day to protect against UV damage.
- Avoid Picking at Skin: Minimize skin injuries by not picking at acne or other blemishes.
- Antioxidant Use: Use products containing Vitamin C to protect the skin from free radical damage.
- Gentle Skincare: Avoid harsh scrubs and treatments that can irritate the skin.
Concerned about hyperpigmentation? Talk to a licensed Face Club skin therapist today. Our experts can help you find the perfect skincare routine tailored to your needs. Book an appointment now and take the first step towards clearer, even-toned skin.