Treatment FAQ

what is the most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation

by Delilah Labadie Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Lightening creams or gels work best for flat spots, such as melasma or age spots. They're effective for patches of discoloration on most skin types. OTC products are accessible (and sometimes more affordable) options for hyperpigmentation, but these can take longer than professional treatments.

Healthline.com

Dec 23, 2021 · An older study found that a daily retinoid treatment lightened dark skin patches in most participants. Hydroquinone: It can take around 12 weeks to treat hyperpigmentation. People who use ascorbic...

Top10homeremedies.com

Oct 04, 2019 · As we said, hyperpigmentation can be an especially pesky problem for deeper complexions, which is why we love that this treatment is specially formulated to meet the needs of darker skin. It’s a bi-phase serum (so give it a good shake before using) that relies on a trio of proven brighteners: niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, and a retinoid. Satisfied users love the …

Allremedies.com

Oct 06, 2020 · The most intense option available, fractional laser resurfacing treatments work wonders at erasing more stubborn pigmentation. Lasers like Fraxel, Halo and Clear + Brilliant (also known as "baby Fraxel"), among others, create safe and controlled microinjuries in the skin to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process.

Curejoy.com

May 27, 2020 · The following treatments are recommended to treat hyperpigmentation. Medicinal treatments. Medicines can be used to treat hyperpigmentation which can help reduce or get rid of the dark patches over time. The most commonly prescribed medicinal treatment are topical creams. This is due to most topical creams containing an ingredient that can lighten the skin, …

What works best to get rid of hyperpigmentation?

Jul 25, 2021 · Rich in vitamin C helps reduce hyperpigmentation, helps reduce acne, help provides a healthier, smoother appearance to your skin. Aloe Vera Leaf Extract: has soothing and antioxidant properties and hydrates your skin.

How to effectively treat hyperpigmentation?

Sep 13, 2019 · The most intense option available, fractional laser resurfacing treatments work wonders at erasing more stubborn pigmentation. Lasers like Fraxel, Halo and Clear + Brilliant (also known as “baby...

How to make body hyperpigmentation disappear ASAP?

Dec 03, 2019 · The Best Ways to Treat and Prevent Future Hyperpigmentation 40 Keep Skin Moist to Boost Cell Turnover. While your primary goal with hyperpigmentation is to lighten the dark spots,... 41 Hands Off Bug Bites, Blackheads, and Other Injuries. That said, the sooner you treat hyperpigmentation, the easier ...

Which cream is best for pigmentation?

1 day ago · The Best Products For Beating Hyperpigmentation Professional Grade IPL Dark Spot Concentrated Serum, £99 | Dr Dennis Gross. One of the best ingredients to prevent... 1% Retinol Booster, £51 | Paula’s Choice. To prevent dark spots showing up on the surface of the skin, you need a... Super C Ferulic ...

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Which treatment is best for hyperpigmentation?

Hydroquinone is considered by many to be the gold standard treatment for pigmentation. “Hydroquinone blocks the production of pigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase,” explains Dr Jack, adding that it does so in a particularly potent way.Sep 23, 2021

What completely clears hyperpigmentation?

Start with topical OTC whitening creams. “Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist.Dec 3, 2019

How can I remove pigmentation from my face permanently?

How to Remove Pigmentation from face permanently– What are My Options?Chemical Peels for pigmentation treatment. These are treatments that to help remove the outermost layer of the skin. ... Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to reduce pigmentation. ... Pigmentations Laser. ... Sunscreen and Sun Protection Measures.Mar 9, 2020

What do dermatologists prescribe for hyperpigmentation?

HYDROQUINONE Hydroquinone is the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation in dermatology. Its effectiveness and safety is so well-documented in clinical studies that almost all dermatology providers will recommend 4% hydroquinone as a first step for anyone with significant pigment concerns.

Why is my hyperpigmentation not going away?

Some cases of hyperpigmentation may never go away completely. If hyperpigmentation is caused by injury, then as the skin heals the discoloration will lessen as melanin is absorbed into the tissue surrounding the injury.Sep 22, 2021

Which cream is best for hyperpigmentation?

Organic Harvest Active Luminosity Anti Pigmentation Face Cream. ... The Derma Co 2% Kojic Acid Face Cream for Pigmentation Removal. ... Himalayan Organics Papaya Anti Blemish & Pigmentation Removal Cream. ... RE' EQUIL Skin Radiance Cream. ... Mamaearth Bye Bye Blemishes Face Cream. ... Vaadi Herbals Lemongrass Anti Pigmentation Massage Cream.More items...•Apr 1, 2022

Can hyperpigmentation be cured completely?

Hyperpigmentation is a harmless skin condition that people can get rid of using removal techniques such as cosmetic treatments, creams, and home remedies. If a person notices other symptoms alongside hyperpigmentation, they should seek advice from their doctor.

How do you fade hyperpigmentation fast?

Committing to a dark-spot-correcting serum with any and all of the brightening ingredients we mentioned before (vitamin c, retinol, tranexamic acid, kojic acid)—can significantly speed up the process and help fade dark spots even faster.Mar 14, 2022

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade? Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years.Mar 3, 2022

Is there a pill for hyperpigmentation?

L-cysteamine is a topical antioxidant that effectively evens hyperpigmentation. You can get it from some doctors' offices or online by prescription. Tranexamic acid can be taken as a pill or applied as a topical to improve melasma. It's an option for people who don't see improvement with other forms of therapy.Apr 22, 2021

How can I remove pigmentation at home permanently?

These are several remedies you can try at home to treat your pigmented skin.Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may help in lightening the pigmentation on your skin. ... Aloe vera. ... Red onion. ... Green tea extract. ... Black tea water. ... Milk. ... Tomato paste. ... Masoor dal (red lentils)Jan 10, 2021

Is Vitamin C good for hyperpigmentation?

5. It helps fade hyperpigmentation. Since it impedes melanin production, vitamin C can actually fade hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation — including sunspots, age spots, and melasma — occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain areas of the skin.

What is the best vitamin for spot fading?

In the world of spot-fading ingredients, vitamin C is one of the best options, not only for its skin brightening abilities but because it has the added benefit of acting as an antioxidant and stimulating collagen production, too. Sign us up.

Does prickly pear extract help with redness?

One of the best-sellers from this cult-favorite brand, this relies on mega-gentle lactic acid to help fade spots and gently exfoliate the dead cells that impede your glow. Licorice and lemongrass also promote a more even complexion, while prickly pear extract soothes redness, making this a choice pick for those whose skin is easily irritated. Also nice: It works in just three minutes.

Is hyperpigmentation a skin issue?

And here’s the thing: This is a potential issue for anyone and everyone, no matter your skin tone. In fact, hyperpigmentation is a particularly common issue in African-American skin, which has more melanin to begin with.

Does glycolic acid help with discoloration?

Glycolic acid exfoliates and breaks down discolored skin cells , and also has the added benefit of stimulating collagen production over time. And let’s not forget to mention that it costs less than ten dollars. These Are the 15 Best Toners Based on Your Skin Type and Concerns.

Does vitamin C help with dark spots?

Simple and straightforward, this gets the job done using a potent form of vitamin C that goes to work both fading existing dark spots and impeding the production of new ones . It also has white birch extract to hydrate and peony extract for antioxidant protection, making it a one-stop-shop for all of your skincare needs. Use it in the morning before sunscreen, or at night under a thicker moisturizer.

Does tranexamic acid work on dark spots?

Pricey, yes, but this is crazy effective at knocking out even the most stubborn dark spots and discoloration. It’s another one of Hartman’s recommendations, also relying on tranexamic acid, along with a litany of other ingredients that help to both fade existing marks and prevent new ones from forming. It works on all skin tones, too, and in a brand-backed clinical study, 100% of participants said it made their skin tone look more even after just over three months of use.

Is retinol good for sensitive skin?

The hard truth of the matter is that many of the best brightening ingredients—hydroquinone, vitamin C, retinol —can be too irritating for sensitive skin. That’s why we appreciate that this serum relies on niacinamide instead, a great spot fading ingredient that just also happens to hydrate and even reduce redness and inflammation. And true to the brand’s sensitive skin-friendly vibes, it’s generally super gentle and fragrance-free.

What is the best product for acne?

It works by encouraging the topmost layer of skin to slough off to reveal healthy, normal colored skin underneath. Niacinamide.

What is it called when you have dark patches on your face?

When our body produces too much melanin though, it becomes a harmless condition called hyperpigmentation. Characterized dark patches surrounded by areas of normally colored skin, hyperpigmentation can make anyone feel self-conscious. Fortunately, the best products for hyperpigmentation are easy to find and to use and are highly effective.

Why does the body produce melanin?

Our body naturally produces a darkening pigment called melanin in response to sun exposure; this protects our skin from harmful rays that could damage the structures underneath and even cause certain types of cancer. When our body produces too much melanin though, it becomes a harmless condition called hyperpigmentation.

What is vitamin B3?

With a 5% niacinamide formulation, Vitamin B3 5% Niacinamide Serum by Eva Naturals is a premium skin care product that promotes proper optimal cell health for even toned and radiant skin.

Does vitamin C help with discoloration?

Vitamin C encourages the production of glutath ione and Vitamin E, which are both important in the correction of skin discoloration. Learn About Side Effects. Unfortunately, a lot of the products you might find on the market can cause side effects that may outweigh the benefits of the formulation.

Does hydroquinone help with hyperpigmentation?

In higher concentrations, it can effectively resolve hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone. For 50 years, this skin bleaching agent has been widely regarded as one of the most powerful ingredients for resolving hyperpigmentation.

What is the best treatment for pigmentation?

1. Lightening creams. Lightening creams are over-the-counter (OTC) treatments that work with select ingredients to help decrease pigmentation.

What is hyperpigmentation on skin?

What you can do. Hyperpigmentation is a medical term used to describe darker patches of skin. These patches result from excess melanin production, which can be caused by everything from acne scars and sun damage to hormone fluctuations. If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, know that you aren’t alone. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin ...

How does a chemical peel work?

Chemical peel. A chemical peel uses acids at stronger concentrations to treat the desired area of skin. They reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing the epidermis. Deeper versions may also penetrate the middle layer of your skin (dermis) to produce more dramatic results.

What is the best treatment for age spots?

Lightening creams or gels work best for flat spots, such as melasma or age spots. They’re effective for patches of discoloration on most skin types. OTC products are accessible (and sometimes more affordable) options for hyperpigmentation, but these can take longer than professional treatments.

Can you get hyperpigmentation from chemical peels?

Chemical peels cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun’s rays. If you don’t adequately apply sunscreen and use other UV protection, the sun may worsen your hyperpigmentation.

What is laser peel?

Laser peel (skin resurfacing) A laser peel (resurfacing) treatment uses targeted beams of light to reduce hyperpigmentation. There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers are the most intense, and they involve removing layers of your skin.

How does acid work?

Face acids, or skin acids, work by exfoliating, or shedding, the top layer of your skin. Whenever you exfoliate your skin, new skin cells emerge to take the place of the old ones. The process helps even out your skin tone and makes it smoother overall. Many face acids are available OTC at beauty stores and drugstores.

How to treat minimal darkness

While less invasive treatments such as microdermabrasion won't deliver a night-and-day difference to significantly damaged skin—as Brooklyn, NY dermatologist Robert Finney, MD notes, the pigment is usually too deep for microdermabrasion to make a notable difference—it can definitely work with minimal damage (read: light sunspots or brown spots).

How to treat more stubborn spots

Salicylic acid, glycolic acid and TCA chemical peels are often recommended to banish discoloration. Beverly Hills, CA, dermatologist Zein Obagi, MD, says that chemical peels are powerful at speeding up results and removing deeper signs of damage. “Their potency can be manipulated to suit the type and depth of pigment.”

How to treat hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage

A popular choice for targeting sun-induced discoloration, IPL involves light-based energy pulsed onto the skin while simultaneously targeting blood vessels. Fort Lauderdale dermatologist Igor Chaplik, MD says he uses IPL for brown spots, lentigos and pigmentation of the face, neck and chest.

How to treat serious discoloration that won't budge

The most intense option available, fractional laser resurfacing treatments work wonders at erasing more stubborn pigmentation. Lasers like Fraxel, Halo and Clear + Brilliant (also known as "baby Fraxel"), among others, create safe and controlled microinjuries in the skin to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process.

Post-treatment care

Depending on the level of damage, your doctor may also send you home with a prescription topical for daily upkeep. Dr. Chaplik always recommends a combination of glycolic cream and a form of Retin-A before and after laser treatments to maintain results.

How to diagnose hyperpigmentation?

Diagnosis of hyperpigmentation. To diagnose hyperpigmentation, it is best to see someone in a primary care practice, such as a doctor or dermatologist. Professional advice is the best aid for guaranteeing a correct diagnosis of the condition as well as receiving the best care for the type of hyperpigmentation.

What are the three types of hyperpigmentation?

There are several types of hyperpigmentation. The three most common are Melasma, sunspots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Each different type is caused by a variety of factors, from lifestyle to hormonal, drugs to trauma and diseases.

What is the best way to use lactic acid?

It is best applied directly to the skin with cotton wool and left to soak for a few minutes.

How to get rid of dark spots on face?

Medicinal treatments. Medicines can be used to treat hyperpigmentation which can help reduce or get rid of the dark patches over time. The most commonly prescribed medicinal treatment are topical creams . This is due to most topical creams containing an ingredient that can lighten the skin, called hydroquinone.

Does green tea help with hyperpigmentation?

Green tea has long been studied for its effect on hyperpigmentation. Whilst there is a small amount of conclusive information for treating hyperpigmentation, the ingredient is still known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for this skin condition.

Is hyperpigmentation a long term problem?

Hyperpigmentation is a harmless condition and is quite common, therefore there are many ways it can be treated. It does not pose any real threat to your health and by seeking advice as soon as possible, there are usually not any long term consequences. It is important to follow the advice of pursuing medical help to ensure there are no underlying issues.

Why is my skin darker?

When the skin is exposed to sunlight, more melanin is produced which results in darker skin. More often than not, the melanin in your skin gives it a darker and even skin tone. However, if the melanin cells get damaged or become unhealthy, it has a negative effect on the melanin production.

What is the best oil for hyperpigmentation?

Sunflower Oil: a naturally derived plant oil that is super moisturizing, made up of 60% linoleic acid, and rich in antioxidant vitamin E. Vitamin C: helps lighten hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, combating free radical damage, and boosting collagen production.

What is the best treatment for dark spots?

Bearberry Extract: Believed to be the world’s best plant-based dark spot treatment. As a botanical resource, bearberry extract contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that protect against free radical damage and UV rays and prevent new melanin formation in existing dark spots.

Why do dark spots appear on skin?

The reason is that darker skin contains a higher amount of melanin (more color) in the skin cells and a tendency to overproduce additional melanin in response to external factors. While hyperpigmentation is totally treatable, people with darker skin need to take extra caution to safely and effectively treat dark spots.

What is the term for dark spots on the face?

Hyperpigmentation is a condition where patches of skin become darker than the normal surrounding skin—i.e., the fancy term for “dark spots.” This discoloration results from an accumulation of excess melanin—a naturally occurring pigment in the body that gives the eyes, hair, and skin their (beautiful array variety) color.

What are sun spots?

Sun damage: Sunspots, small and flat, can range in color from light to dark brown. They tend to develop on parts of the skin exposed to the most sunlight—such as the face, chest, neck, and hands—that receive more sun exposure, stimulating melanin production.

Is hydroquinone safe for dark skin?

Hydroquinone is the only FDA-approved product for fading dark spots on the market, and its effectiveness is solidly supported through multiple scientific studies. In concentrations of up to 2%, hydroquinone is safe for all skin types, including dark skin, black skin, and sensitive skin. Higher levels may still be effective ...

What is the name of the discoloration of the face?

Melasma: Melasma is a type of skin discoloration caused by changes in hormone levels often associated with pregnancy or the use of birth control pills. Melasma typically develops on larger areas face—the cheeks, sides of the face, forehead, and above the lips.

What is the best treatment for sun spots on face?

If you have sunspots all over the face, East Greenwich, RI dermatologist Caroline Chang, MD says a medium-depth chemical peel is her treatment of choice. “A series of light chemical peels can also help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.”.

What is IPL treatment?

Fort Lauderdale dermatologist Igor Chaplik, MD says he uses IPL for brown spots, lentigos and pigmentation of the face, neck and chest. During an IPL treatment, the light seeks out the discoloration in the skin to lift it up and out. Expect for the treated areas to turn dark and flake off in a few days.

What is microdermabrasion skin?

During microdermabrasion, the uppermost layer of skin is gently removed to get rid of superficial and minimal discoloration. There are some versions of microdermabrasion, like DermaSweep, that offer a secondary step where specialized anti-pigment ingredients are infused into the skin to further brighten it.

Who is the doctor that does chemical peels?

Beverly Hills, CA, dermatologist Zein Obagi, MD, says that chemical peels are powerful at speeding up results and removing deeper signs of damage. “Their potency can be manipulated to suit the type and depth of pigment.”.

What is fractional laser?

The most intense option available, fractional laser resurfacing treatments work wonders at erasing more stubborn pigmentation. Lasers like Fraxel, Halo and Clear + Brilliant (also known as “baby Fraxel”), among others, create safe and controlled microinjuries in the skin to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process.

Does discoloration fade?

One of the most common misconceptions about discolored skin is that it will fade by itself with no treatment necessary. While some types of hyperpigmentation, like those caused by acne, can eventually lighten up over time (keep in mind this doesn’t happen overnight, but can take a few months, if not longer before you see a difference), ...

How to get rid of hyperpigmentation?

Start with topical OTC whitening creams. “Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist.

What is the best product for dark spots?

While your primary goal with hyperpigmentation is to lighten the dark spots, an effective over-the-counter (OTC) product should contain ingredients that benefit the skin in other ways. "In addition to addressing the pigment issues, a good product will have moisturizing agents like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, and maybe even a retinol to boost cell turnover," says Doris Day, MD, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Medical School in New York City and author of Beyond Beautiful : Using the Power of Your Mind and Aesthetic Breakthroughs to Look Naturally Young and Radiant. "These inactive ingredients allow the active brighteners to work more effectively." A good moisturizer can also restore the skin’s lipid (fat) barrier, helping to further protect it from the sun’s damaging rays, notes Harvard Health.

Can Addison's disease cause hyperpigmentation?

Medical Conditions or Medication Hyperpigmentation can also be due to Addison’s disease, an adrenal gland disorder that can increase melanin production. Certain drugs, including antibiotics and, according to the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, some chemotherapy drugs, can cause hyperpigmentation.

Can you scratch a mosquito bite?

As tempting as it might be to scratch a mosquito bite or squeeze a stubborn blackhead, think back to your mother's warning — "Don't pick!" — and pay attention. "Scratching and picking at a spot will only increase the inflammation that's responsible for skin discoloration," says Jeanine Downie, MD, a dermatologist and the director of Image Dermatology in Montclair, New Jersey. "The more you mess with it now, the worse it'll look later." That said, the sooner you treat hyperpigmentation, the easier it will be to erase. “The pigment in brown spots can move deeper into the skin over time,” she explains.

What is SPF in sunscreen?

Note: SPF only refers to protection from UVB short-wave rays. To also protect against UVA long-wave rays, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises choosing a product that contains Mexoryl, Parsol 1789, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or avobenzone.

How to prevent sun induced discoloration?

The most effective way to prevent sun-induced discoloration is to diligently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater , every day, even on cloudy or cool days. "UV rays just send the pigment into overdrive, turning dark spots darker," says Dr. Day.

Can hydroquinone be used for dark spots?

Dermatologists consider prescription-strength hydroquinone, alone or combined with other lighteners, to be the gold standard for fading dark spots because it slows the production of pigment.

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