Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation causes patches of skin to become darker than the surrounding skin. It occurs when the skin produces excess melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. It can affect any skin type and is more likely during pregnancy, with older age, or after an injury.
Hyperpigmentation is very common on skin of color, as darker skin tones already have a higher melanin content. Burns, bruises, acne, rashes, or other trauma to the skin can cause it to produce more melanin and lead to dark spots.
Types of hyperpigmentation include:
- age spots, also called “liver” spots
- melasma
- post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Some medications and certain health conditions can also lead to hyperpigmentation.
How to get rid of hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is often harmless and may require no treatment at all. However, some people may prefer to remove it. For those who do, various treatment methods and home remedies may help.
Topical creams
Many people use topical treatments to treat hyperpigmentation. Topical treatments will include ingredients that can lighten the skin, such as:
- azelaic acid
- cysteamine cream
- vitamin C
- hydroquinone
- corticosteroids
- kojic acid
- retinoids, such as tretinoin
- glycolic acid peels
- mequinol
- niacinamide
- N-acetyl glucosamine
- soy