Melanin is a natural pigment found in the skin, hair, and eyes, giving them their unique colour. It is produced by cells called melanocytes. There are two main types of melanin: eumelanin, which provides a brown or black colour, and pheomelanin, which gives a yellow or red hue. The combination and distribution of these two types of melanin determine the color of your skin, hair, and eyes.

The process of melanin production is called melanogenesis. When this process is disrupted, it can lead to uneven skin tone, including patches that are either lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

Hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to an excess production of melanin. This can range from mild, uneven skin tone to more pronounced dark patches. Hyperpigmentation can affect individuals of all skin types, but those with more melanin in their skin (i.e., darker skin tones) are at a higher risk of developing it.

Types of Hyperpigmentation

Several forms of hyperpigmentation are commonly seen in clinics:

• Melasma: Often seen as symmetrical dark patches on the face, usually triggered by hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy or birth control).
• Age Spots (Liver Spots): Small, darkened spots that appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, and chest.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark patches that develop after an injury or irritation to the skin, such as from acne, eczema, or cosmetic procedures like lasers. In severe cases, PIH may result in hypopigmentation (light patches), which are often more difficult to treat and can be permanent.

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by various factors:

1. UV Exposure: Sun exposure activates melanocytes, leading to increased melanin production. Uneven exposure can result in patchy dark spots. This is why daily sunscreen use is crucial to prevent further darkening.
2. Inflammation: Conditions like acne, eczema, or dermatitis can trigger inflammation in the skin, stimulating melanocytes to produce excess melanin.
3. Hormones and Medications: Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or when using birth control pills, can trigger melasma.
4. Other Medications: Some drugs, like certain antibiotics or chemotherapy medications, can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation.

Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

The good news is that there are several effective treatments available to improve and even reverse hyperpigmentation. The right skincare ingredients can make a significant difference in improving hyperpigmentation. I often use a combination of Vitamin C, Tretinoin, Hydroquinone, Cysteamine, and Azelaic Acid to help even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.

Here are some of my favourite in clinic treatments I use to combat hyperpigmentation:

1. Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a prescription skin-lightening agent that works by inhibiting melanin production. It’s highly effective in lightening dark patches and evening out skin tone. Our clinic offers a treatment package that ensures your skin is treated uniformly, avoiding pale patches and restoring a natural, radiant complexion. While hydroquinone creams are available on the black market online it’s important to note that it is a prescription medication which should be prescribed after consultation by a medical professional. Hydroquinone creams used incorrectly can cause further damage. Always consult a medical professional before starting hydroquinone treatments.

2. Retinol Peel

Retinol peels are an excellent choice for people of colour because, unlike some acid-based peels, they don’t carry the risk of causing rebound hyperpigmentation. We use the Neostrata ProSystem Retinol Peel in our clinic, which combines 3% retinol with a retinol-boosting complex. This peel works on both the surface of the skin and within deeper layers to exfoliate dead cells and stimulate cell turnover, leading to clearer, brighter skin. It’s also beneficial for those with acne or those looking for skin rejuvenation.

3. Cold Plasma Therapy

This gentle, non-thermal treatment is ideal for addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It stimulates skin cell regeneration and accelerates healing, helping to fade dark spots. Additionally, cold plasma therapy enhances the absorption of active ingredients in your skincare products by up to 24%, allowing them to work more effectively.

4. Microneedling

Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling is a highly effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. It stimulates collagen production, regulates melanocyte activity, and helps skin products penetrate more deeply. This treatment is excellent for lightening dark spots and improving skin texture. At our clinic, we use premium microneedling serums that can increase collagen production by up to 256%, delivering optimal results.

A Comprehensive Approach to Treating Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a complex condition, and successful treatment usually involves a combination of targeted skincare products and in-clinic treatments. Every patient is unique, and the right approach will depend on the type and severity of hyperpigmentation, as well as individual skin needs.

If you're dealing with hyperpigmentation and want to discover the best treatment for your skin, you can easily book a consultation with us through the "Contact Us" page. We’ll assess your unique skin needs and develop a personalised treatment plan to help you achieve a clearer, more even complexion.

Make sure to check out next week's blog, where I'll be sharing my go-to skincare products for tackling hyperpigmentation.

Dr. S. Ahmed