Hyperpigmentation Treatment Advice from a Dermatologist

According to Mario Bedescu Skin Care Inc, hyperpigmentation is characterized by darkening of the skin caused by the overproduction of the skin pigment, melanin. While hyperpigmentation is usually harmless, it can be a blow to your self-confidence, especially if you're a woman who has otherwise healthy and well-maintained skin. The condition can affect any part of the body including the face, hands and neck--and it's most prevalent in people of color, who naturally have more melanin.

Dr. Julia Tzu

What are some common causes hyperpigmentation?

• Heredity
• Overexposure to the sun
• Inflammation and skin injuries
• Hormonal changes due to pregnancy (called melasma) or menopause
• Medications such as antibiotics, hormone treatments and anti-seizure drugs

Treatment options

Dr. Julia Tzu, founder and medical director of Wall Street Dermatology in New York City says her recommended course of treatment for hyperpigmentation depends on the cause.

"Common reasons for hyperpigmentation include melasma (patches of brown on the cheeks and forehead), sun spots, and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (pigmentation that is left after a bout of skin inflammation, such as a rash or acne)," Dr. Tzu explains. 

"For these common types of hyperpigmentation, there are two main options: topical lightening agents or lasers.  Topical lightening agents include products that contain hydroquinone (bleaching cream), azaleic acid, kojic acid, and vitamin C.  These need to be applied for a duration of time before any noticeable improvement occurs.  Chemical peels can also produce some improvement in hyperpigmentation."

The double board-certified dermatologist says, however, "lasers are a much more effective way to selectively target only the darker areas of skin."

Dr. Tzu uses Q switched lasers to eliminate cells with excess pigment. "One treatment produces immediate lightening (in one week) in exactly the desired areas, although multiple treatments may be required depending on the level of hyper pigmentation," she says.

For African-American clients, whose skin can be extremely sensitive to laser treatment, Dr. Tzu still uses Q switched lasers, but "at the right wavelength and different parameters." 

Stay tuned for Everything She Wants' top product picks for skin brightening and 

hyperpigmentation, including the highly-effective Dr. Murad's Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum, which contains hydroquinone.