Hyperpigmentation & skin discolouration: types, treatments and what causes it
Do you have spots or patches on your skin that are darker than the rest of your complexion? You're not alone. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition that can cause discolouration of the skin. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the different types of hyperpigmentation, what causes it and the treatments available to help give you back your skin-confidence.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition caused by melanocytes in your skin producing too much of the skin pigment known as melanin, resulting in uneven patches of skin with a darker or lighter colour than the surrounding skin. This condition can occur due to a number of factors, including trauma to the skin through cuts or burns, changes in hormone levels, inflammation from acne or other skin conditions, sun damage or even certain medications.
In most cases, hyperpigmentation appears as small patches on the skin that are darker or lighter than the surrounding areas. Although hyperpigmentation can affect any area of the body, it is most commonly found on the face and hands. While this condition typically affects adults, it can also occur in children and teens.
Types and causes of hyperpigmentation and skin discolouration:
There are many different types of skin discolouration and hyperpigmentation. These can occur due to a variety of different factors, such as skin inflammation, skin damage, or simply changes in skin pigmentation as we age. By understanding the different types of skin discolouration and hyperpigmentation, we can better protect our skin from these unwanted side effects. Let’s explore each type.
Melasma
Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that causes brown patches on the skin. These patches can appear anywhere on the body, although skin discolouration on the face and chest is most common. The causes of melasma are not entirely clear, though many experts believe that it may be caused by hormonal imbalances such as those experienced during pregnancy or periods of high stress as well as certain medications such as the contraceptive pill or sun over-exposure.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or acne scarring, is a common skin condition that most likely occurs as a result of acne outbreaks. Due to this connection, it is believed that changes in hormone levels contribute to its development. This condition causes dark discolouration of the skin in areas where acne breakouts have occurred – typically around the cheeks, chin, and forehead.
If you’re experiencing regular breakouts, working with a holistic skin health professional can help address any underlying causes of acne, and therefore reduce the likelihood of scarring. Treatments for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation should look at both decreasing the occurrence of pimples and acne, as well as providing treatments to help reduce the appearance of acne scarring and restore the skin's natural complexion.
Whatever treatment you choose, it is important to be patient and consistent in your approach; even with proper care, the effects of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can take some time to fade completely. With perseverance and the right treatments, however, it is possible to improve the look and health of your skin and reduce the appearance of acne scarring.
Age Spots
Age spots, also known as liver spots or sun spots, are small spots on the skin that typically appear as we grow older. This type of discolouration typically appears on the face, neck and hands – or other areas that have had too much sun exposure, such as the legs! In addition to UV exposure, genetic susceptibility and hormone levels are believed to contribute to the development of age spots. Quality skincare products containing green tea and aloe vera can be applied topically to help reduce the signs and development of this particular type of hyperpigmentation.
UV & sun exposure is believed to contribute to all three types of hyperpigmentation. It is therefore important to wear a quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and minimise sun exposure.
Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available for hyperpigmentation through medically trained skin health professionals. Careful management and a holistic skin care regime, can help anyone suffering from skin discolouration find relief and regain their confidence. We’ll explore these next!
Treatments for hyperpigmentation and skin discolouration
In most cases, hyperpigmentation will be addressed topically with corrective skincare products as well as clinically performed treatments. These non-surgical, pain-free treatments help reduce skin melanin levels and even out skin tone – giving you back that glow and self-confidence you’ve been craving!It’s important to work with a medical aesthetician, who can help with an accurate diagnosis and start you on the best hyperpigmentation treatment for you, as soon as possible.
Laser & light treatments for hyperpigmentation
Laser and LED light treatments can be used to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Laser pigmentation removal works by targeting the pigment (melanin) in the skin, breaking it up and causing it to fade over time. LED light therapy works in a similar way, but uses light instead of lasers to lighten the pigment.
Microdermabrasion for hyperpigmentation
Microdermabrasion is a type of exfoliation that can help to slough away dead skin cells, revealing the brighter, smoother skin underneath. Microdermabrasion can also help to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation, by lightening dark spots and evening out skin tone. Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions in order to maximise the results of your treatment.
Chemical peels for hyperpigmentation
Chemical peels are an effective and safe way to remove hyperpigmentation and achieve a brighter and more even complexion. This treatment consists of applying specially formulated chemicals to the affected area, which loosens the top layer of the skin. After this layer has been removed, new skin cells are produced – without the appearance of dark spots or blemishes.
Skincare products for hyperpigmentation
Whilst conventional treatments focus on either lightening dark spots or suppressing melanin production, retinoid-based skincare products are specifically designed to actually help with both! Retinoid and retinol, both types of vitamin A, help boost collagen production and remodel the skin, while also inhibiting the synthesis of melanocytes. Retinoids have been shown to increase the penetration of vitamin C in the skin, which also inhibits melanin production. Look for quality skin care products containing vitamin C and retinoids, for maximum effect in reducing the appearance of your hyperpigmentation.
While each of these treatments may require some time and patience to see results, they are typically effective at reducing skin discolouration and helping you achieve a more even skin tone. It’s also important to note that some treatments may not be suitable for all skin types, to be sure to consult a qualified skin professional.
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or ethnicity. The good news is that there are many treatments available to help improve the appearance of hyperpigmented skin. If you’re concerned about your hyperpigmentation, we encourage you to book a skin analysis today with one of our skin specialists at our clinic in Miranda, NSW so we can assess your individual needs and recommend the best treatment plan for you. Thanks for reading!