How to Treat and Prevent the 3 Common Types of Pigmentation

Reviewed By: Dr. Buonassisi

The desire to have clear, glowing skin is what every client strives for. The most popular skin goal at the clinic is to obtain an even, bright complexion that is free of blemishes and hyperpigmentation.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is the discolouration or abnormal darkening of the skin. It occurs in different areas, in small or large patches. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess pigment as a response to sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations or skin injury such as scars, burns or acne.

UV Induced Hyperpigmentation: The result of overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, fluorescent or ambient lighting. From constant exposure and no skin protection the result is small pigmentation spots seen all over the skin. Often these may not be seen at the surface but can be seen during your Visia Skin Analysis. 

Hormone Induced Pigmentation: This is more common than you may think! Also known as Melasma, this type of pigmentation occurs due to fluctuations in hormones due to pregnancy, oral contraceptives, thyroid disfunction, menopause or other imbalances. This type of pigmentation often worsens in the summer when exposure to the sun is heightened. Many patients see this as large patches on the face, commonly found on the forehead, jawline, cheeks or upper lip. 

Post-Inflammatory Induced Hyperpigmentation: This occurs after injury to the skin, such as a cut, burn or picking at those pimples!

How to Prevent and Treat Hyperpigmentation?

1. Protect your skin from UV exposure: Using sunscreen everyday on exposed areas is the best way for prevention. You are exposed to UV rays from fluorescent bulbs, your computer, even on a cloudy day there are UV rays coming through. Both Image Skincare and SkinCeuticals offer great sunscreens which can be used daily under your makeup or alone.
2. Use a vitamin C serum: With diligent use of a vitamin C serum, this powerful and effective antioxidant provides advanced environmental protection as well as helps in reducing and preventing skin discolouration. One of our staff favourite products is the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. It is a power house in a bottle, containing 15% Vitamin C!
3. Increase cell turnover: Supplementing your skin care regimen with a Retinol can also help do wonders for hyperpigmentation as it suppresses melanosome transfer during the pigmentation process, increases cell turnover and exfoliates skin so that melanin is removed from the skin faster. Keep in mind that Retinol’s make your skin photo sensitive so they are best used during the winter months when you are not going to be outside in the sun all day.
4. Professional Treatments: If you have visible pigment there are fantastic treatments that help to remove or visibly reduce the appearance of pigment. Our most popular treatment is the Halo®. This treatment works to lift the pigment off the skin, read more about Halo®.

Book a Complimentary Skin Consultation

Visit 8 West Clinic for a complimentary skin consultation which includes a Visia Skin Analysis! Learn about how to prevent pigmentation and allow our skin care experts to tailor a skin care regime just for you! Book your consultation today.