What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which parts of the skin turn darker than normal due to excessive or uneven production of melanin. These dark-colored patches or discolorations on the skin are often visible on the face, neck, hands or other sun-exposed areas. It is not a disease per se, but a symptom of various causes such as sun damage, hormonal imbalance or skin aging.
The term hyperpigmentation includes different types of pigmentary disturbances such as melasma, age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and freckles. These types of spots are the visible manifestation of hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is the umbrella term for the underlying process by which too much pigment is created and stored in the skin.
Causes of hyperpigmentation
- Sun damage and skin aging – prolonged exposure to UV radiation stimulates pigment cells.
- Hormonal influences – such as the pregnancy mask (melasma) or use of birth control.
- Medications and cosmetics – certain medications or ingredients in cosmetics can trigger pigment reactions.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – dark spots after inflammation, acne or wounds.
- Skin conditions – autoimmune-related skin inflammations such as lichen planus, psoriasis and eczema.
- Vitamin deficiency – a deficiency of vitamin B12. Vitamin B11 and A deficiency are associated with impaired regulation of melanin production and skin renewal.
Characteristics of hyperpigmentation
- Dark brown to black-brown spots or flecks.
- Sometimes sharply delineated, sometimes more diffuse and intertwined.
- When the pigment is deeper in the skin, it can give a gray-brown to gray-blue glow.
- Can be cosmetically disturbing, especially on the face.
- Can stand alone or combine with other skin problems.
>> In addition to these forms of hyperpigmentation, there are types such as “café-au-lait” spots and Poikiloderma of Civatte also known as Erythrosis interfollicularis colli or solar neck. The latter are reddish-brown spots with red vessels [insert link couperose].
Age & hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation occurs at all ages, but the cause and the best treatment plan vary by stage of life. Therefore, we look not only at the type of spot, but also at age-related factors and the condition of the skin.
Teens & twenty-somethings: PIH due to acne and inflammation
With troubled young skin, dark spots may remain on the skin after pimples and inflammation; this is also known as residual acne. To prevent this, the focus is on calming the skin through inflammation control, mild peels and consistent sun protection. In addition, microneedling can be used to help the residual acne spots disappear more quickly.
Thirties & forties: melasma & hormones
Hormonal fluctuations (pregnancy, birth control) can trigger melasma. Therefore, this form is also known as the “pregnancy mask.” Treatment requires pigment-inhibiting protocols, good home skin care products and strict UV protection. Aggressive treatment methods are avoided in this form to prevent exacerbation of hyperpigmenatation.
Forty & fifty-plus: sunspots & age spots
Chronic UV exposure is more likely to lead to solar lentigines (“sun spots”). IPL and peels can be used very effectively for this form of pigmentation. Through tuned light therapy, we lift the pigment and the spots often disappear with just a few treatments. For women in this age group who are in (peri)menopause, HST (hormone replacement therapy) can also be a factor to consider. Indeed, in addition to the positive effects of HST on the skin, estrogen and progesterone stimulate the production of melanin and can therefore – especially when combined with sunlight – exacerbate hyperpigmentation.
Treatments at Ivy clinics
The right treatment depends on the type of pigmentation and the underlying cause. During a consultation, the skin therapist examines the skin and draws up a personal treatment plan with you. It is often important to also look at the cause of the hyperpigmentation to prevent recurrence.
- MeLine treatment protocol Professional treatments in the clinic combined with products for home use.
- IPL treatment heating and removal of pigment through the absorption of IPL light.
- Chemical peels for equalization of pigment.
- Cosmeceuticals for home (including MeLine, AlumierMD, emerginC).
What can you do yourself?
With pigmentary disorders, it is important – even after cosmetic treatment – to prevent new pigment formation. One way to do this is to pay attention to the following points:
- Protect your skin daily with a broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or 50).
- Limit intense sun exposure and avoid tanning beds.
- Do not use products with irritating ingredients such as perfume.
- Follow the prescribed skin care protocol with products that help prevent pigmentation such as a serum with vitamin C.
Free, no-obligation consultation
Want to know which treatment is best for your skin and type of hyperpigmentation? Then schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our skin therapists.
