Hyperpigmentation develops when your skin produces too much melanin, the substance that gives your skin its color.
Areas ofpigmentationcan develop after injuries, too much sun, or a variety of other issues.
While you might not like the appearance of these areas, they are usually not harmful to your health.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
Most people who give a shot to treat these areas do it for aesthetic, not medical, reasons.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
This issue is more common in people with medium to dark skin tones but it can happen to anyone.
Treatment of hyperpigmentation isn’t curative, and it’s usually not even necessary.
The section below describes some common treatments that can help lighten skin affected by hyperpigmentation.
Treatment for cosmetic reasons can help you improve your self-image or self-esteem.
There are also some other common, often more natural ingredients that are found in many skin-lightening products.
Retinoids
Retinoid is a general term used to describe a number of products derived from vitamin A.
They are available in prescription-strength formulations, as well as in a variety of OTC skin care products.
Be aware that these products work well but come with risks.
Retinoids make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so they should always be paired with sunscreen.
Dermatology experts also suggest starting with products that contain the lowest concentration of retinoid.
Using chemical peels too often or in the wrong strength can be damaging or irritating to your skin.
These are specialized treatments that must be performed by a dermatologist or other licensed professional.
Hyperpigmentation Home Remedies
Home remedies aren’t particularly effective in treating problems with hyperpigmentation.
Where on Your Body Can Treatment Take Place?
Who’s a Candidate for Treating Hyperpigmentation?
Anyone with hyperpigmentation is a candidate for treatment.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your specific skin concerns and how to best treat your hyperpigmentation.
What Are the Side Effects?
Side effects of treatments designed for hyperpigmentation depend on the pop in you choose.
Topical creams and lotions can cause skin irritation or redness.
Talk with your healthcare provider about the best treatments for your skin bang out.
Alternative Procedures
Alternative treatments for hyperpigmentation may include systemic medications or hormone treatments.
Understanding why you are developing hyperpigmentation is often the first step in treating the discoloration.
Preventing Hyperpigmentation
you could’t prevent every pop in of skin discoloration.
Some hyperpigmentation problems are triggered by conditions like pregnancy and cannot be avoided.
Be sure to wear sunscreen and shield your skin from the sun to preventdiscoloration sparked by sun damage.
Summary
Hyperpigmentation triggers when your skin gets darker in areas where too much melanin is produced.
These dark areas are not usually harmful, but people sometimes want to treat them for cosmetic reasons.
There are several products used to address this problem, both with and without a prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many reasons your skin changes color or tone.
In some cases, hyperpigmentation can be cured or may even fade on its own in time.
Talk to your healthcare provider about what is causing your skin discoloration to find the most effective treatment.
Many of the treatments used for hyperpigmentation will only work as long as treatment continues.
Some treatments, like laser therapy or chemical peels, are intended to have more long-lasting effects.
OTC lotions and creams can vary in price, but clinical procedures like laser treatments can cost much more.
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