What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is defined as a harmless skin condition that causes darker skin patches on the skin. The condition can affect various parts of the body, though it is common in sun-exposed parts of the body including, the face, neck, hands, etc. 

Hyperpigmentation is derived from the Greek word, hyper which means excessive, and pigmentation meaning colouring of the skin. Hyperpigmentation also referred to as ‘dark spots on the face’ is caused by overproduction of melanin (a pigment responsible for skin colour). There are various factors that trigger melanin production in the body including sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations, genetics, medications, skin injury, etc. Hyperpigmentation can appear in patches of brown, black, red, grey, or pink. 

What are the types of Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by various factors and appears in different forms. Some of the common types of hyperpigmentation include,

• Melasma:

  Melasma is caused by both hormonal changes and sun exposure (how to prevent from heatstroke). Also commonly referred to as dark spots on the face is common in women aged in their 20s & 30s and appears in brown or grey-brown patches. Melasma usually occurs on the face, cheek, forehead, upper lips, etc. 

• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation:

  PIH is caused by inflammation or injury to the skin such as burns, cuts, rashes, etc. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation appears as flat spots, brown or black in colour post the lesion heals. 

• Freckles:

  Freckles, also referred to as ephelides, is a type of hyperpigmentation that develops during childhood in sun-exposed areas of the body. Freckles become darker and spread with exposure to sun and heat. 

• Age Spots:

  Age spots (home remedies for anti-aging) as the name implies, are a type of hyperpigmentation that appears in adults due to sun exposure and previous sunburns. Age spots are common on the face, forearm, chest, hands, etc. 

• Periorbital Hyperpigmentation:

  Periorbital hyperpigmentation commonly known as dark circles, is a condition that leads to darkening of the skin around the eyes. 

Also Read: Dark Circles: Discover The Secrets to Brighter Eyes

What are the Causes of Hyperpigmentation?

The primary cause of hyperpigmentation is related to increased production of melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives the skin, hair, and eye its colour. Melanin also protects the skin from UV damage and oxidative stress. When the skin cells that make melanin get damaged or unhealthy, it starts to overproduce melanin, resulting in darkening of the skin. Various factors that lead to increased production of melanin include,

• Sun Exposure: Sun exposure stimulates melanin production & exposure to UV rays can lead to increased pigmentation on face and dark spots.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes especially during pregnancy or when taking oral contraceptives can trigger melanin production. 
• Ageing (anti-aging treatment): With age the skin’s ability to regulate melanin can get disrupted resulting in age spots. 
• Skin Injuries: Another common factor that contributes to hyperpigmentation is skin injuries. Injuries like cuts, burns, acne (acne treatment), etc can cause inflammation and post-healing results in darker spots. 
• Other factors that trigger melanin production that lead to hyperpigmentation include genetics, certain medications, thyroid disorders, sun damage, and more. 

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How to Treat Hyperpigmentation?

There are several ways to treat and lighten hyperpigmentation. Some over-the-counter medicines and creams may also be recommended by the dermatologist to control melanin production. Additionally, there are some procedural treatments performed by dermatologists and trained professionals recommended when topical treatments aren’t effective. 

• Chemical Peels: The treatment procedure involves applying a chemical layer to the top layer of the skin allowing new, even-toned skin to surface. The procedure may be done more than once to achieve the desired result. 
• Laser Treatment: Laser treatment involves using focused light energy to break the melanin deposits in the skin. 
• Microneedling: The treatment procedure involves creating controlled micro-injuries to the skin, triggering collagen production and enhanced skin tone. 
• Other procedural treatment involves cryotherapy, pigmented lesion laser, laser skin resurfacing, etc. 

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Home Remedies for Hyperpigmentation

Home remedies for hyperpigmentation involve using natural products like turmeric, lemon juice, papaya, aloe vera, etc. 

• Cucumber:

  Cucumber is widely known for its cooling & lighting effects. Cucumber slices, grated cucumber, or cucumber juice can be applied to the darkened spots.

• Lemon Juice:

  Lemon juice is high in citric acid which helps lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Apply lemon juice on the affected area, additionally dilute with water if you have sensitive skin.

• Aloe Vera Gel:

  Aloe vera gel can be directly applied to the darkened spots. Aloe vera is packed with skin-lightening properties and helps reduce hyperpigmentation. 

• Rice Water:

  Rice water is widely preferred given its skin-lightening (reduce melanin without health risk), antioxidant, and vitamin (vitamin D foods & it’s benefits) properties. Rice water can help even out skin tone over time.

• Avocado Oil:

  Avocado oil is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and antioxidant content which helps lighten dark spots and protects against sun damage.

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Prevention Tips for Hyperpigmentation (How to prevent hyperpigmentation)

Preventive Measures	Details
Sun Protection	Use sunscreen daily & reapply every 2-3 hours when outside
Avoid Picking	Refrain from picking acne, scabs, wounds, etc.
Gentle Skin Products	Use products that suit your skin & avoid harsh skin products
Monitor Hormonal Balance	Manage hormonal balance with medical advice
Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure	Limit sun exposure & wear full sleeves clothing, etc.

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FAQs regarding hyperpigmentation

How to remove dark spots on the face?

Dark spots on the face can be lightened/removed by following dermatologist-recommended topical and procedural treatments. 

Can hyperpigmentation go away on its own?

Hyperpigmentation can sometimes fade away on its own, particularly in mild cases. 

How long does it take to see results from treatments?

Treatment results can vary and depend on various factors including the type of hyperpigmentation, treatment option, age of the patient, and more.

Can diet and lifestyle changes help prevent hyperpigmentation?

Yes, a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can contribute to managing and preventing hyperpigmentation.

Does makeup cover hyperpigmentation effectively?

Yes, makeup can effectively cover up hyperpigmentation.