Subscribe RSS FeedHyperpigmentation is defined as an excess of melanin in a part of the body. It normally appears as deposits of the pigment in tissue which cause unsightly darker patches on the skin. It’s normally not a serious problem, but the patches are often unsightly enough to inspire those who have the condition to seek treatment. Fortunately, there are plenty of treatment options available for those afflicted with hyperpigmentation.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is the active ingredient in many skin whitening creams that are available either over-the-counter or with a prescription. Hydroquinone is a bleaching agent that blocks melanin, and it can be fairly potent in large doses. Naturally, whitening creams that are sold over-the-counter have significantly less hydroquinone than those that require a prescription. It is sometimes combined with products such as Retin-A for a more effective treatment. Some of the side effects of hydroquinone use include skin irritation, diminished pigmentation or hypopigmentation, and a condition called ochronosis if a particulary strong dose is used over a long period of time. Ochronosis is characterized by black speckles or discolorations on the skin. As with any medical treatment, you should always consult your doctor if you believe that you are experiencing any side effects with skin whitening creams.
Retin-A
Another common hyperpigmentation treatment involves the use of topical medications containing Retin-A. Retin-A is a retinoid derived from Vitamin A and exfoliates skin to promote the growth of new skin cells. This in turn has the effect of diminishing darker skin patches. Retin-A is available in many strengths, and many topical creams such as TriLuma contain both Retin-A and hydroquinone.
Lumixyl
Lumixyl is a relatively new hyperpigmentation treatment that is marketed as a safer alternative to Hydroquinone. It is based on a series of naturally-ocurring peptides that reduce melanin without the harshness or other side effects of creams containing hydroquinone or Retin-A. It is readily available in physicians’ offices, and it is applied topically to areas that are heavily affected by hyperpigmentation.
Elure
Elure is a new hyperpigmentation treatment that is a bit more complex than some of the other topical treatments available over-the-counter or via a prescription. The treatment itself is a three-step process that includes a foaming facial wash, lotion and a night cream that reduces melanin in the skin thanks to its active ingredient, Melanozyme. Melanozyme a compound based on the naturally occurring enzyme lignin peroxidase. Most patients see noticeable results in one month, and there is less of a chance of skin irritation that is often associated with other hyperpigmentation treatments.
Other Treatment Options
Most hyperpigmentation treatments such as the ones described above come in the form of topical creams, cleansers and exfoliants, but there are other options available for those with extreme cases of hyperpigmentation. These hyperpigmentation treatments aren’t used as often due to higher cost, inconvenience and possibility of side effects. One treatment that has gained popularity in recent years is nonablative laser treatment, which involves the use of lasers to heat up and eliminate hyperpigmented patches. This treatment is commonly used to eliminate small spots as opposed to larger patches. A similar and more reliable treatment is cryotherapy, which involves the freezing of localized lesions such as age spots.
Watch this video on chemical peels for hyperpigmentation