Hyperpigmentation is a term used to describe a variety of conditions that cause the skin to darken.
The main underlying cause of hyperpigmentation is the excessive production of melanin. Like many skin health concerns, sun exposure is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation. (It's why we always say WEAR SUNSCREEN!) Other causes of and risk factors for hyperpigmentation include:
- Changes in hormone levels that are most common during the teen years, pregnancy, and while using oral contraceptives
- Certain health concerns like thyroid disease and Addison’s disease that are related to hormonal shifts
- Taking medications that increase light sensitivity, including some chemotherapy drugs
- Burns, cuts, bruises, and other wounds.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
- Minimize time spent in the sun
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher each day
- For diffuse forms of hyperpigmentation, it’s important to address the underlying condition
- Manage chronic skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema to avoid hyperpigmentation related to skin inflammation
TREATMENTS
- Over the counter skin care products that have ingredients that help reduce hyperpigmentation like our mineralized pearl, vitamin C, niacinamide/B3, retinol and be sure to wear sunscreen. Ours has niacinamide/B3 as yet another helper to prevent and reduce age spots!!
- Microdermabrasion – An abrasive material is used to remove the outer layers of skin and reveal healthier layers of skin below.
- Microneedling – This treatment creates numerous micro-injuries to the skin to jump-start the skin’s natural healing processes, leading to improved appearance, skin tone, and texture.
- Laser therapy – High-intensity light waves (lasers) are used to break down pigment in the skin, allowing the body to remove these darker skin cells and replace them with new, healthy skin below.
At My Zen Skin Care, we offer private skin care consultations to help you discover the best skin care routine, the order in which to use products, and the reasons why! Just call to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists who will curate a skin care routine especially for you. 303-947-6224.
Have a great day!
My Zen Skin Care staff