Hyperpigmentation Treatment: How to Get Rid of Those Pesky Dark Spots

AcneLauren Petrullo
Dark spot and new skin before and after skin care
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We all know how annoying it can be to constantly deal with hyperpigmentation. Even if you take the best care of your skin and religiously follow a skincare routine, those stubborn dark spots still seem to linger throughout especially from sun exposure, hormones or environmental damage.

If you’re looking for information about how to get rid of hyperpigmentation effectively then look no further – we’ve got the answers!

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a condition in which areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding area and it’s usually caused by an excess of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. 

Common causes of hyperpigmentation include sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation, and certain medications. Other potential causes can include genetic disorders, trauma to the skin, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from skin conditions such as acne or eczema.

It often appears as dark spots on the face, hands, and other areas which causes an uneven skin tone. Treatments for hyperpigmentation vary depending on the cause but may include topical creams, chemical peels, laser treatments, and microdermabrasion.

How to treat hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation can be a real pain in the skin (literally and figuratively). But fear not, there are plenty of ways to treat this pesky condition. So if you want to find out the best treatment for hyperpigmentation read on!

1. AHAs and BHAs

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are two of the most commonly used acids for treating hyperpigmentation. AHAs have been found to be particularly effective in lightening and brightening the skin, while BHAs can help to reduce inflammation and redness caused by hyperpigmentation. When using these acids, it is important to start slowly, building up your tolerance over time and using sunscreen during the day.

Glycolic acid, lactic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid, and mandelic acid are four of the most recommended alpha-hydroxy acids for treating hyperpigmentation. They are effective in lightening the skin, as well as reducing inflammation and redness.

When it comes to acids, you can include them in your routine in many different ways. For example, you could use them in cleansers, toners, or exfoliators. Also, these acids can be used in a chemical peel to treat hyperpigmentation.  

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    2. Vitamin C

Also, vitamin C (in the form of l-ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant used to boost skin's appearance and reduce hyperpigmentation. When applied topically, it has been found to help lighten skin by inhibiting the production of melanin. It also helps protect against further damage from UV exposure and environmental pollutants.

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3. Skin lightening creams

Skin-lightening creams, such as those containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, niacinamide or licorice root extract can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation because they are designed to reduce melanin production. 

Lightening creams are best for those with melasma, spots, and patches.

They are recommended to apply at night, for several weeks or months before any results are seen. The exact duration of the treatment depends on the individual and should be discussed with a doctor or dermatologist. While these products can be effective, they may also cause irritation or other side effects and should always be used with caution.

Important: if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and are suffering from hyperpigmentation, it’s important to consult with your doctor because many lightning ingredients are not safe for you or your baby. 

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4. Vitamin A derivates (Retinoids)

Vitamin A derivatives, or retinoids, are a powerful form of vitamin A that can help reduce hyperpigmentation by speeding up the growth of new skin cells and inhibiting the formation of melanin. Retinoid creams and gels have been found to be especially effective when used in combination with sun protection. It is important to start slowly with retinoids and gradually increase your usage over time, as they can cause irritation if used in excess.

5. Peeling products

Peeling products are a type of treatment used to reduce hyperpigmentation and improve overall skin tone. They contain active ingredients such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid to the skin, which then causes the top layer of the skin to peel off, removing dead skin cells. This encourages cell regeneration and helps to fade age spots, brown patches, dark patches, and other discolorations, leaving a more even complexion. Chemical peels can be customized based on the needs of each individual patient.

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6. Laser treatment

Laser treatments are a popular method for reducing hyperpigmentation, such as age spots and melasma. Laser therapy is used to target the pigmented areas of the skin, breaking down the melanin and causing it to fade. This type of treatment is most effective when used in combination with other therapies such as topical creams or chemical peels. Laser treatments have the added benefit of being quick, non-invasive, and often result in minimal side effects with proper care.

7. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that can help reduce hyperpigmentation. The treatment involves using a device to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and other debris from the surface without causing any harm. This encourages cell regeneration, leading to improved skin tone and texture. Microdermabrasion is not as strong as laser treatments or peelings, but it can still be effective in reducing discoloration caused by sun damage, acne scars or aging.

What treatment you should choose according to your skin tone

In determining which treatment to choose for hyperpigmentation, it is important to consider your skin type and tone. 

Light skin tones

For those with lighter skin tones, laser treatments are often the best choice due to their precision and effectiveness. 

Lightening creams are also an amazing option for this type of skin since they work progressively on the skin. However, bear in mind that light skin tones tend to be more sensitive to hyperpigmentation treatments than the skin of color.

Medium skin tones

Those with medium skin tones have the most options when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation. Peeling products are very effective for this skin type, as they are strong enough to target the areas of discoloration without causing too much irritation. Laser treatments can also be used, but may cause more discomfort or redness than with lighter skin types. Microdermabrasion is also a viable option for those with medium skin tones, as it helps to gently exfoliate and reduce further damage from occurring. Lightening creams can be beneficial as well on this type of skin.

Darker skin tones

For those with darker skin tones, microdermabrasion may be a better option as it can be more gentle and cause less irritation. Chemical products are also an option for dark skin tones but should be used with caution as they can be harsh on the skin.

Face acids such as glycolic acid, kojic acid, and retinoids are best recommended for darker skin tones.

Ultimately, the best treatment will depend on your individual needs and preferences. But, keep in mind that topical treatments take a little bit longer to produce visible results, you just need to be patient and constant!

How to choose the best hyperpigmentation treatment according to the cause 

There are multiple skin concerns related to hyperpigmentation and they have to be treated separately. 

Sun damage can be addressed with topical retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids, while hormonal fluctuations or trauma can require laser resurfacing or chemical peels. Melasma caused by hormonal changes often responds to hydroquinone creams alone or combined with a topical retinoid or corticosteroid. 

For acne-prone skin and acne scars are best addressed with a combination of BHAs, which penetrate deeply to remove excess sebum from the skin, and topical retinoids that help reduce inflammation and stop scarring. On the other hand, age spots can more effectively be treated with AHAs such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, which exfoliate the skin and prevent additional darkening. Be sure to use sunscreen on a daily basis when using either type of treatment to protect your skin from further damage.

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If you're not sure what is causing your hyperpigmentation, speak to a dermatologist who can determine the underlying issue and provide a personalized treatment plan.

Extra tip: Do not forget the sun protection factor SPF

Sunscreen is an important part of protecting yourself from hyperpigmentation, it is also necessary for protecting yourself from skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause further darkening of existing pigmentation, as well as the development of new spots and patches. Wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 every day can help protect your skin and slow the progress of any changes in your skin tone. Furthermore, be sure to reapply after two hours of sun exposure or after swimming or sweating heavily.

Always talk to your dermatologist first

It is always best to speak with a dermatologist before applying any type of hyperpigmentation treatment especially if you have sensitive skin. A professional can help determine the best type of treatment for your skin type and provide advice on how to reduce further damage. Additionally, they can advise on any lifestyle changes or other treatments that may be necessary in order to see the maximum benefits from the chosen treatment.

Post-hyperpigmentation treatment care

Post-hyperpigmentation treatment care is just as important as the treatment itself.

After treating hyperpigmentation, it's necessary to maintain a good skin care routine. This includes using SPF sunscreen daily on sun-exposed skin and avoiding direct sun exposure when possible. You should also use gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated and avoid irritation. For example, you could apply aloe vera gel to the affected area.

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It’s time to look for the best products for hyperpigmentation

Looking for a good hyperpigmentation treatment? Asian Beauty Essentials is the best place to find hyperpigmentation products, no matter the cause, your skin type or tone. 

We offer an extensive selection of safe, quality-made Asian products that are designed specifically for treating hyperpigmentation. With the help of these products and advice from your dermatologist, you can enjoy a clearer and more even skin tone!

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