Hyperpigmentation/Discoloration

Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of the skin caused by an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of your skin, hair, and eyes. It can present itself in various forms, including dark spots, freckles, melasma, or overall uneven skin tone. The condition is not a disease, but rather a cosmetic concern that can arise from a variety of causes, including sun exposure, acne, hormonal changes, and more. While hyperpigmentation is not harmful, it can cause self-consciousness and is one of the most common skin concerns that people seek treatment for.

Common types of hyperpigmentation include:

1. Sunspots (Age Spots or Liver Spots): These are small, darkened patches of skin that typically appear on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, chest, and arms. They are most common in people over the age of 40, though they can occur at any age due to prolonged sun exposure.
2. Melasma: Often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy,” melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that results in brown or grayish patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. It is common among women, especially those who are pregnant or taking birth control pills due to hormonal fluctuations.
3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This occurs after an injury or inflammation of the skin, such as a pimple, rash, or cut. After the skin heals, the area may darken as excess melanin is produced during the healing process. PIH is common after acne breakouts.
4. Freckles: Freckles are small, tan or brown spots that typically appear on the face and shoulders, and are often genetically inherited. These spots are more noticeable when a person is exposed to the sun.
5. Lentigines: These are dark spots that appear due to aging, often associated with years of sun exposure. Lentigines are more common in older individuals.

How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

While it may not always be possible to prevent hyperpigmentation entirely, there are steps you can take to minimize its occurrence:

1. Sun Protection: The most effective way to prevent hyperpigmentation is to protect your skin from sun exposure. Regularly apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade whenever possible to minimize direct sun exposure.
2. Avoid Picking at Skin: Picking at acne, scabs, or other skin lesions can worsen the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Allow the skin to heal naturally without interference.
3. Use Brightening Skincare: Skincare products with ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) can help prevent and reduce existing discoloration by brightening the skin and reducing melanin production. Regularly moisturizing your skin also promotes skin renewal, helping to keep pigmentation even.
4. Limit Hormonal Triggers: If you’re prone to melasma, especially during pregnancy or when using birth control, speak to your healthcare provider about adjusting your medications or using topical treatments to address pigmentation.
5. Gentle Skincare Routine: Using harsh or abrasive products can irritate the skin and worsen hyperpigmentation. Opt for gentle cleansers and treatments, especially if your skin is prone to breakouts or sensitivity. Click here for Kaiser Permanente dermatologist recommended skincare products.

Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

If you are already dealing with hyperpigmentation, there are several cosmetic and medical treatments that can help lighten dark spots, even skin tone, and restore a more radiant complexion. Treatment options depend on the severity of the discoloration, the type of hyperpigmentation, and the area of the skin affected. Click to learn more about each service and find a Kaiser Permanente provider near you.

Skincare Products

• Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent that lightens dark spots by inhibiting melanin production. It is often prescribed by dermatologists for treating sunspots, melasma, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.
• Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant, vitamin C brightens the skin and inhibits melanin production. It is a popular ingredient in serums and creams for treating hyperpigmentation and providing a more even skin tone.
• Retinoids (Retinol): Retinoids, including tretinoin (prescription-strength retinoid) and retinol, help accelerate skin cell turnover, promoting the shedding of pigmented skin cells and the formation of new, even-toned skin. They can be used to reduce dark spots caused by acne scars or sun exposure.
• Niacinamide: Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is known for its ability to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It is often included in serums and moisturizers for treating hyperpigmentation.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): AHAs (like glycolic acid) and BHAs (like salicylic acid) help exfoliate the skin, speeding up the process of skin renewal and fading discoloration over time.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the surface and removes dead skin cells. Over time, peels can help lighten dark spots and improve skin texture. They are particularly effective for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, and sunspots. Peels can range from mild (superficial) to deep, depending on the severity of pigmentation and the desired results.

Laser Treatments

• Fractional CO2 Laser: This type of laser targets the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and treating pigment irregularities. It is often used to treat stubborn hyperpigmentation, including melasma and sunspots.
• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): IPL uses light energy to target pigmented areas, breaking down dark spots and improving overall skin tone. It is effective for treating sunspots, age spots, and freckles.

Microneedling

Microneedling involves using a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulates collagen production and accelerates the skin’s healing process. This treatment can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, especially post-inflammatory pigmentation caused by acne scars.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a treatment that involves applying extreme cold to target and freeze dark spots or other pigmentation issues. The freezing process causes the pigmented cells to break down, eventually leading to a more even skin tone.

Click here to find Kaiser Permanente cosmetic providers near you.