Hyperpigmentation : Causes, care, best creams and skincare

Causes of hyperpigmentation

The most common hyperpigmentation disorders are:

Melasma

It is one of the most common, and its triggers include exposure to sun, the use of oral contraceptives, and pregnancy. It appears as bilateral, symmetrical hyperpigmented macules and patches (plaques) of brown or gray-brown color in sun-exposed areas, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

It results from overproduction of melanin or abnormal deposition of melanin in the epidermis or in the dermis following a skin injury or inflammation. The most common causes are acne, atopic dermatitis or contact dermatitis, deep chemical peels, or laser treatments. In the specific case of acne, these are discolorations that remain on the skin after a pimple fades (usually purple, red, or brown marks) and has therefore undergone a change in pigment. Treatment begins with prevention and control of inflammation.

Age spots (Solar lentigines)

They are usually caused by chronic sun exposure and are found mostly on the backs of the hands and feet. Although they are more common in people with fair skin and older age, they can actually affect anyone.

Systemic Conditions

These include acanthosis nigricans, seborrheic dermatitis, hemochromatosis, and hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome.

Remedies for hyperpigmentation

Although no treatment can completely eliminate hyperpigmentation spots, it is worth knowing about the remedies that can visually reduce this cosmetic concern.

Lightening creams for hyperpigmented spots

Lightening creams are one of the most popular remedies for hyperpigmentation. They contain various active ingredients that aim to reduce melanin in the skin. Hydroquinone is one of the most effective and widely used agents, although it can sometimes cause irritation or a condition called ochronosis if used for a long time or in high concentrations. For this reason we recommend more gentle alternatives include substances such as azelaic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C, and retinoids, which help not only to brighten the skin but also to improve its texture and overall radiance. Regular use, combined with sun protection, can lead to a significant reduction in skin discoloration.

Laser treatments

Laser treatments are another effective option for treating hyperpigmentation, especially for the most stubborn spots that do not respond to topical treatments. Lasers work by delivering targeted wavelengths of light to break down dark pigments into smaller fragments that the body can then eliminate naturally.

There are several types of lasers, such as the pigment laser and the fractional laser, chosen based on skin type and the level of pigmentation. These treatments usually require multiple sessions to see optimal results and must always be supervised by qualified specialists to avoid side effects such as further skin damage.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels use acid solutions to remove the superficial layers of the skin, allowing the regeneration of newer, lighter, more even skin.

Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and trichloroacetic acid are among the most common agents used in peels. Depending on the concentration and type of acid, peels can range from superficial to deep, directly affecting the depth of the treatment and recovery time. This method can be particularly effective for superficial discoloration and for improving the skin’s overall texture.

Lifestyle and good habits

Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding prolonged sun exposure and using good sun protection, are essential to minimize the worsening of hyperpigmentation and promote long-term skin health.

Helpful tips for treating skin hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation limited to the epidermis is more likely to resolve than hyperpigmentation that goes deeper, into the dermis, which is why it is important to act promptly.

Remember that, to achieve noticeable results, cosmetics must be used with consistency and regularity, and that while they may help reduce the problem of spots, they may not solve it completely. Our main advice is: always remember to apply sun protection.