Complete Guide To Hyperpigmentation: Causes, Types & Treatments

Have you ever stared at dark patches or dark spots on the mirror and wondered where it came from? While there are numerous reasons for this, like suntan, stubborn acne scar or pimple marks, there is also another common issue called ‘Hyperpigmentation’. So, what is hyperpigmentation really and why does it occur?

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where a specific region on your skin appears to look darker than its surrounding areas. It can occur in patches, or even cover larger areas on the body. Hyperpigmentation happens when a particular area of the body produces excess melanin (the pigment responsible for the darker color). For every problem there is a suitable solution. Similarly, for hyperpigmentation VCare offers relevant treatments, with which you can see the dark patches fade or disappear over time. Face, neck, hands, inner thighs are some of the common parts affected by hyperpigmentation.

You may begin to think about What Causes Hyperpigmentation . Here is a breakdown. Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a number of reasons such as,

1. Prolonged Sun Exposure

Regular and prolonged exposure to the Sun can cause hyperpigmentation in the form of sun spots, or age spots. People with an already existing hyperpigmentation should avoid regular direct sun exposure as it can worsen the condition.

2. Hormonal changes

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that is caused by hormonal changes, mainly due to pregnancy or birth control pills. Melasma often appears as symmetrical brown patches on the face.

3. Medical conditions/ medications

Medical conditions and medications can cause hyperpigmentation. People with endocrine disorders, or metabolic disorders may experience this condition. Also, people taking certain psychotropic drugs or chemotherapy agents can have sensitivity to the Sun and experience hyperpigmentation.

4. Genetics

This is something common. Individuals with a family history of hyperpigmentation may experience the same through genetics.

4. Skin injury/trauma

Trauma to the skin can cause Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. This type of hyperpigmentation mostly affects people with darker skin tones and happens after a skin injury or inflammation like acne, burns, or eczema.

Difference between hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation

To put in simple words, hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation are two opposites. In hyperpigmentation , there will be an excess production of melanin, whereas in hypopigmentation there will be very less production of melanin, causing lightening of the skin. Hypopigmentation causes white patches on the skin, where the surrounding areas of the skin will be much darker than the affected area, which will be lighter. It is occasionally reversible (only with post-inflammatory hypopigmentation) and mostly stays throughout life.

Freckles vs Hyperpigmentation

Some are confused if freckles are a type of hyperpigmentation. Freckles are smaller spots on the skin. It usually occurs in people with lighter skin tone. Freckles can be lighter brown or red in color. These occur due to Sun exposure or genetic reasons. It is one of the types of hyperpigmentation and can be ridden using treatments. Laser treatments work well for freckles. Pico and Q-Switch lasers are effective in removing freckles. People with freckles should avoid too much exposure to the Sun.

Are treatments effective for hyperpigmentation?

Scientifically, in-clinic hyperpigmentation treatments have been proven effective in getting rid of hyperpigmentation. Some of the successful in-clinic treatments at VCare Skin Clinic for hyperpigmentation include

➤ Chemical Peels

Chemical peels help in exfoliating the pigmented outer layers of the skin, thereby removing darker patches effectively. At VCare, Cosmelan, Dermamelan, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and yellow peels are used based on the severity of pigmentation to lighten the pigmented area for an even skin tone. Peels are usually quick and provide faster results that are long lasting. Peels also fade dark spots, brighten overall complexion and stimulate the growth of newer skin cells.

➤ Melano Break System

Melano break system is an in-clinic non-invasive treatment exclusively offered at VCare to combat hyperpigmentation and dark spots. In this therapy, mask-like cream is applied on the affected area on the face, which is used to break down excess melanin. Post removal of this cream, one can observe a brighter and even toned skin. We provide an after treatment homecare kit with sunscreen and maintenance creams for post therapy care and to maximize the results.

➤ Laser treatments

Pico and Q-Switch Lasers are popularly used to treat hyperpigmentation. These lasers break the melanin pigment into tiny particles that the body naturally clears in its own way. These lasers provide powerful results in a few sessions with no downtime. Lasers are also known for targeting the pigment in a precise manner for a perfect outcome.

Along with treatments, VCare offers comprehensive care with homecare products and supplements. With a 360-degree approach, hyperpigmentation is effectively handled by our skincare experts.

If you are someone battling with hyperpigmentation and have no clue what to do about it, just give us a call at (number). Our team will assist you and clarify your queries on our treatments. Our in-clinic treatments are preferred for their high precision, safety standards and proven results over the years.

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