Skincare for Hyperpigmentation: 7 Trusted Treatment Options

Hyperpigmentation is a broader term that refers to skin patches darker than the natural skin tone due to excess melanin production. It can result from various factors such as inflammation (post-acne marks), hormonal changes (melasma), sun damage, or injury to the skin.

Anyone can experience dark patches and hyperpigmentation on their skin for several reasons, and dealing with them can be frustrating. This is especially true when uneven skin tone and dark spots seem to stay longer despite your efforts. But the good news is that the right treatments can achieve clearer, brighter skin!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven trusted treatment options for hyperpigmentation. Read through, as there’s a solution for your hyperpigmentation.

7 Treatments for Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots

1. Topical lightening agents

Topical lightening agents are creams and serums containing ingredients like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, and arbutin. These ingredients target the root cause of hyperpigmentation: melanin overproduction. Topical lightening agents are designed to reduce dark spots and even out skin tone by slowing down melanin production and gently fading discolouration over time.

2. Chemical peels

Another treatment for hyperpigmentation is chemical peel. Exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid are used to remove the outermost layers of skin where pigmentation resides. Shedding off damaged skin encourages the growth of fresh, evenly pigmented skin.

Chemical peels are particularly effective for sunspots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However, they require proper aftercare to prevent irritation or further pigmentation, which is why it is advisable to contact a qualified dermatologist before starting. Light peels can be used at home, while medium to deep peels are administered by dermatologists to address more stubborn pigmentation.

3. Retinoids

Retinoids are one of the most popular and oldest over-the-counter solutions to hyperpigmentation. They (including retinol and prescription-grade tretinoin) accelerate cell turnover and push pigmented cells to the surface to make them shed eventually. Using retinoids reveals a newer and evenly toned skin over time and also stimulates collagen production.

Retinoids are particularly effective for treating hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage or acne scars. They are often combined with other treatments like hydroquinone for enhanced results. Consistently using retinoids, typically at night, helps fade pigmentation within 8–12 weeks. Examples of popular retinoid products include The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane, La Roche-Posay Redermic R Retinol Cream, and Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%).

4. Microdermabrasion and dermabrasion

Microdermabrasion and dermabrasion are exfoliating treatments that remove the epidermis—the upper layer of the skin that houses the pigmented cells—when applied. Microdermabrasion is a gentle, non-invasive procedure compared to dermabrasion. On the other hand, dermabrasion doesn’t stay at the epidermis level but goes down to the dermis to improve skin texture. These two hyperpigmentation treatments have side effects if not correctly done or managed and must be reviewed by a qualified dermatologist before initiation.

5. Sun protection

One of the causes of hyperpigmentation is sun exposure to the skin. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun trigger melanin production and worsen existing dark spots. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. This helps in preventing further pigmentation and supporting the effectiveness of other treatments. Daily reapplication also maintains an even skin tone, especially when exposed to prolonged sun exposure.

6. Laser therapy

Laser therapy is a more advanced treatment for hyperpigmentation that uses concentrated light beams to target and break down excess melanin in the skin. These lasers are of two types: Ablative and non-ablative lasers.

Ablative lasers are effective in severe cases of hyperpigmentation. It is a stronger laser therapy that removes the top layer of the skin entirely. Non-ablative lasers, on the other hand, are not as strong and invasive as ablative lasers. They stimulate collagen production while reducing pigmentation. Both laser types destroy elements in the skin, for new skin cells grow back tighter and more toned.

7. Intense pulse light therapy (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a form of photorejuvenation in which broad-spectrum light penetrates the skin’s layers to break up pigmentation clusters. Unlike laser therapy, IPL targets a broader range of pigmentation issues, including sunspots, freckles, and melasma, with minimal downtime. Although IPL and lasers use light energy to treat skin conditions, lasers use a single, specific wavelength, while IPL uses a broader range of wavelengths. This makes IPL more versatile for treating various pigmentation issues.

Who Should and Should not Use These Treatment Options?

Hyperpigmentation treatments are not compatible with all skin types or conditions based on their composition and application. Here are the necessary information on the treatments suitable for different people.

Topical Lightening Agents

• Suitable For: Mild to moderate dark spots, sensitive or normal skin (with gentle formulas), affordable, at-home solution seekers.
• Not Suitable For: Extremely sensitive or allergic skin, pregnant/breastfeeding women (depending on ingredients).

Chemical Peels

• Suitable For: Stubborn dark spots or hyperpigmentation, quicker results seekers, normal to oily skin.
• Not Suitable For: Sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea, darker skin tones (may cause discolouration), pregnant women (except gentle peels).

Retinoids

• Suitable For: Acne scars, age spots, sun damage, oily or combination skin, and anti-aging benefits seekers.
• Not Suitable For: Dry/sensitive skin (may cause irritation), pregnant women, and skincare beginners (retinoids can be harsh initially).

Microdermabrasion and Dermabrasion

• Suitable for: Superficial dark spots or uneven skin texture, fine lines, and texture improvement seekers, as well as a preference for physical exfoliation.
• Not Suitable for: Active acne, rosacea, or sensitive skin, darker skin tones (risk of discolouration), pregnant women (deeper treatments).

Sun Protection

• Suitable For: Suitable for everyone! It is essential for pigmentation treatment to prevent worsening or recurrence.
• Not Suitable For: Allergic reactions to certain sunscreens (opt for mineral-based).

Laser Therapy

• Suitable For: Severe pigmentation issues or melasma, targeted precision treatment seekers, and clinic-based solution seekers.
• Not Suitable For: Very dark skin tones (risk of worsening pigmentation), people with a history of keloid scarring/sensitive skin, pregnant women.

Intense Pulse Light Therapy (IPL)

• Suitable For: Lighter skin tones with mild pigmentation issues.
• Not Suitable For: Darker skin tones (risk of burns).

Other Considerations

• Suitable For: Sunspots, freckles, or acne scars redness.b. Non-invasive solution seekers with minimal downtime.
• Not Suitable For: Active skin conditions (e.g., eczema).b. Deep pigmentation issues.

H2: Conclusion

Have hyperpigmentation? That should be the least of your worries. Hyperpigmentation has tested and trusted treatments—as seen in this content. All you need is the right prescription advice from a qualified professional and a product to achieve an even skin tone. You can start by visiting the best skincare store in Lagos to meet the professionals and give you the right prescription.