Hyperpigmentation: Causes, Best Treatments, and More!
Hyperpigmentation: it affects many of us in different ways. Between genetics, acne scars, sun damage, or just your average bout of discoloration, these changes in skin color can have an impact on how you feel about your skin. With an expert esthetician by your side, you can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, and set yourself on the path toward happy, healthy skin!
What is hyperpigmentation and what causes it?
To begin, let’s go over what hyperpigmentation is and discuss the causes behind it. Since there is more than one causation behind this skin concern, we think it is important to not only understand what it is, but potentially how to prevent it from popping up again in the future!
Hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin production
Overall, hyperpigmentation itself is the result of an increased (or excess) production of melanin in the skin. As you may be aware, melanin is what gives our skin the different complexions that make us all unique! Outside of individuals with albinism, each of us naturally produces a routine amount of melanin that can be amplified by exposure to UV rays or genetics. Hyperpigmentation is a step outside of our normal melanin production that leaves only certain areas darker than the rest of our skin.
There are several types of hyperpigmentation
In better understanding our skin, it is important to be able to determine what type of hyperpigmentation you have. While each of these conditions result in darker skin, each appears a little bit differently on the body.
Some common types of hyperpigmentation are age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIF). Melasma is triggered primarily by hormones during pregnancy, age spots are a result of excess sun exposure, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the result of short-term trauma and inflammation to the skin. Another common reason for skin discoloration is acne scarring.
Who can develop hyperpigmentation?
The truth is, everyone is at risk for developing hyperpigmentation – this is why proper skincare is so important! With threats to the skin from medications, injuries, hormones, or just plain genetics, there is a very probable chance that you will develop some form of hyperpigmentation in your lifetime.
The best treatments for hyperpigmentation
While the reason behind hyperpigmentation can vary, there are a number of treatments available. These treatments can range from over-the-counter serums, med-spa level treatments, or through prescribed medications.
If you’re going to go for the self-care, professionally assisted treatments, here is our guide to what we think may bring out the best results in treating your hyperpigmentation.
Dermaplaning is often the first line of defense against hyperpigmentation
Dermaplaning is a simple, pain free treatment that offers practically no down-time. This process works by speeding up your body’s natural ability to replenish skin cells while also removing the top layer of dead and dry skin. Due to the fresh layer of new skin, and your body sending signals to produce a new, healthy layer of skin, you will be left with skin of a more even texture and tone. It’s a fantastic option if your hyperpigmentation comes from acne scarring.
The dermaplaning tool, similar to a scalpel, is gently glided over the skin to expose the newest, healthiest layer of skin while also removing vellus hair!
Chemical peels offer an in depth treatment straight down to your pores
Chemical peels come in many different types and strengths. If you are interested in resurfacing your skin and creating a new canvas for your face, you may want to discuss your options with a licensed esthetician.
Light chemical peels offer mild resurfacing, best for treating light hyperpigmentation, as well as fine lines and wrinkles. Advanced levels of peels include medium chemical peels, and deep chemical peels. These often require some sort of recovery time and peeling of your skin but work best in resurfacing your skin at a deeper level.
Microdermabrasion is known for alleviating skin discoloration
Microdermabrasion is one of the most common, non-surgical ways to treat scarring, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin texture. Like chemical peels and dermablading, this treatment is geared towards resurfacing your skin to promote cellular turnover, and healthy, younger-looking skin. A minimally abrasive instrument gently sands your skin, removing the outer, thicker skin layer, and removing dirt and debris.
Let Renewal Skin Studio help you love and care for your skin
Done trying every remedy to get rid of discoloration that just shouldn't be there? Trust Renewal Skin Studio to help you bring out the best version of your skin. We offer quality services for all of your skincare, waxing, and relaxing massage needs. Give us a call with any questions, or book your first appointment with us online!