hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common, harmless condition where areas of skin become darker in color than the surrounding areas.  The most common cause is chronic inflammation but repeated trauma such as itching, or rubbing are triggers.

Sometimes the disorder develops in an area of constant inflammation. This type is called postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and reverses once the inflammation has resolved.

Unlike other skin disorders, Hyperpigmentation most often resolves in time. However, Q -Switched or Picosecond Lasers quickly clear the discoloration.

Triggers:

  • inflamation ( acne, irritants)
  • itching
  • trauma
  • irritation of the skin
  • rubbing the area
  • Genetic factors 

treatment for hyperpigmentation

 Hyperpigmentation will resolve on its own 95% of the time.There are multiple ways to quickly resolve the issue.  Topical creams such as Hydroquinone, exfoliants, and lasers all reduce hyperpigmentation. However, treating the issue causing the pigmentation is the key goal.

Since this condition is due to melanocytes overproducing melanin in an effort to protect the skin, anything that decreases melanin production will help. Thus Hydroquinone is a perfect cream to treat the issue.

Hydroquinone prevents further worsening of pigmentation. However, the use of Hydroquinone is limited to 3 months.

However, simply removing the cause will cure the problem.

Lasers such as the Q-Switched YAG are excellent in reducing pigmentation in a few sessions. 

Peri-orbital

The eye socket is a common area to develop darkening of the skin. Known as, periorbital hyperpigmentation and commonly seen in persons who rub their eyes.

Fortunately, lasers can treat periorbital hyperpigmentation.  However, it is essential to shield the eyes from laser injury. Thus, steel contacts prevent laser eye injury.

peri-orbital hyperpigmentation

postinflamitory

Darkening of the skin in an area once inflamed is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Notably, any inflammatory process can cause this condition.  However, clearing the inflammation resolves the issue. Thus, it is often unnecessary to treat the condition.