Understanding Hyperpigmentation: Causes & Treatment

At Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa we want to make one thing perfectly clear…your skin.

Firstly what is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation is the colouring of a person’s skin. There are two types:

Hyperpigmentation - when your skin becomes darker, examples of these are sun / age spots, freckles, a tan, and under eye dark circles.

and Hypopigmentation when the skin becomes lighter, for example: scarring, Vitiligo and Albinism.

The most common concern we hear from our clients is regarding Hyperpigmentation.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation in skin is caused by an increase in melanin, the substance in the body that is responsible for color (pigment).

The sun’s harmful UV rays play a massive part in causing this skin condition but so do many other things i.e. the aftermath of acne, allergic reactions, abrasive scrubs, certain medications, pregnancy, insect bites, surgical procedures and the list goes on. 

So how can I treat Hyperpigmentation?

When researching different treatments to help alleviate your hyperpigmentation problems, you will see the name “hydroquinone” appear quite often. Hydroquinone is a 2% skin lightening gel or cream, used for the gradual lightening of hyperpigmented skin conditions such as acne spots, freckles, and age spots.

Hormonal and acne related hyperpigmentation can be improved dramatically with gentle acid peels, products containing hydroquinone and other types of brighteners, sun avoidance and thorough use of full-spectrum sunblock suited for your skin type is essential for reducing pigmentation.

And how can I keep it under control?

Firstly you need to figure out what might be causing the condition, there are certain factors that can potentially all play a role in pigmentation: Hormones, pregnancy, unchecked acne flare-ups, sun exposure, over scrubbing and allergic reactions. It is essential to eliminate the cause before it can be improved.

To gain maximum results we recommend regular facial treatments and peels every two weeks. Always remember to avoid the sun. Remember that the sun will penetrate your car windshield and even the clouds on an overcast day so never leave the house without your sunblock on!

Here at Eclipze we use and recommend the Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care & June Jacobs Skin Care. These lines were developed for problem skin focusing on hyperpigmentation and acne. PTR especially is a well-known skin care line throughout the Caribbean for its effective treatments on these problems and their follow up at home care products.

To schedule A Free Consultation or for more information on hyperpigmented problem skins please call us at Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa – 945-1188.