Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding skin. This darkening occurs when an excess of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color, forms deposits in the skin. Hyperpigmentation can affect the skin color of people of any race.

Causes

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by sun damage, inflammation, or other skin injuries, including those related to acne vulgaris. People with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation, especially with excess sun exposure. Many forms of hyperpigmentation are caused by an excess production of melanin.

Types of Hyperpigmentation

There are several types of hyperpigmentation, the common ones being melasma, sun spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

• Melasma: This type of hyperpigmentation is caused by hormonal changes and develops during pregnancy. Women with darker skin are more prone to melasma.
• Sun Spots: Also called liver spots or solar lentigines, sun spots are common. They’re related to excess sun exposure over time.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This is a result of injury or inflammation to the skin. A common cause of PIH is acne.

Treatment

Treatment for hyperpigmentation can vary. It includes over-the-counter (OTC) topical creams, cosmetic procedures, and prescription medications.

• Topical creams: These are the first line of treatment for hyperpigmentation. They’re often effective, but results may take time.
• Cosmetic procedures: These include chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or intense pulsed light treatment.
• Prescription medications: Your doctor may prescribe a medication to apply to your skin to treat hyperpigmentation.

Prevention

Preventing hyperpigmentation is possible, to some extent. It involves protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays, using sunscreens, and avoiding the use of certain medications that can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun.

See Also

• Melanin
• Melasma
• Sun Spots
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
• Topical creams
• Cosmetic procedures
• Prescription medications

Hyperpigmentation Resources
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