The 6 Best Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common body concern. It happens when dark marks and spots show up on the skin because of the overproduction of melanin or an acne scar. Inflammation, melasma, and sun exposure are all common causes of hyperpigmentation.

To help even out the skin tone, there are thousands of products available in the forms of serums, lotions, and more. Keep reading for six of the best hyperpigmentation treatments.

Vitamin C Serum

Out of all the serums, from eyelash to hyaluronic acid, vitamin C is one of the most effective. This is because vitamin c is an antioxidant that will reduce fine lines by stimulating the collagen in your skin and brightening your complexion.

The best vitamin C serums are suited for every skin type, whether it’s oily, acne-prone, or dry.

Brightening Creams

Brightening creams are available over-the-counter and can help decrease pigmentation in the skin. While they are available at the local drugstore, doctors can prescribe stronger doses of lightening creams.

You should apply these creams once or twice a day. There are several common ingredients found in most of these products, like vitamin B-3, licorice extract, and hydroquinone. For patches of discoloration and overall uneven skin tones, lightening creams can be a life-saver.

Face Acids

Face acids are a special type of treatment that works by shedding the surface of the skin to even out its tone. Through exfoliation, you let new cells emerge and take over the role of your old cells.

Through this process, your skin tone and texture even out and become smoother. Some common ingredients found in face acids are azelaic acid, kojic acid, and salicylic acid.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels include acids at much higher concentrations than treat the affected part of the skin. By removing the epidermis, this treatment reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Stronger versions of this treatment may also remove the dermis, the middle layer of the skin, for better results. Irritation, redness, and even blistering are all potential side effects of this treatment. People with age spots, blotchy skin, or sun damage could be good candidates for chemical peels.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is performed in-office only and is used to correct hyperpigmentation. Dermatologists use drill-like tools during this procedure to remove the epidermis of your skin.

The epidermis is removed by taking the abrasive tools and moving them quickly and gently throughout your face. Since this is superficial scarring, it may take a few treatments of microdermabrasion to produce the best results. A similar treatment, called dermabrasion, is performed the same way, but its effects penetrate deeper layers of the skin for a longer-lasting result.

Retinoids

Retinoids are antioxidants that come from vitamin A. It’s their job to communicate with new skin cells and make sure they rise to the surface. These are some of the oldest and most trusted ingredients. They penetrate deep into the skin to effectively treat hyperpigmentation.

Retinoids are available either over-the-counter or with a prescription. However, usually retinoids available from the drugstore are less concentrated.

Retinoids can be effective for all skin tones but always consult with your doctor before beginning a new skin care regimen.

Talk to Your Dermatologist

If you have hyperpigmentation and looking for ways to even out your skin tone, there are many treatment options available. And if you cannot afford a dermatologist, over-the-counter options like retinoids and vitamin c serums can also fix these issues.

However, if you have severe hyperpigmentation, certain procedures like microdermabrasion may be right for you. Make sure to always talk to your dermatology about the best products for your face before purchasing any products you’re unsure about.

Try these products for the treatment of hyperpigmentation and you will notice a clearer skin with regular use.