Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin, this can happen when the skin is producing too much melanin (a pigment that our body produces in giving our hair, eye and skin colour). An increase in melanin can lead to skin conditions such as freckles, acne scarring or melasma.  

What causes hyperpigmentation  

Discolouration of the skin can be caused by a variety of factors, from sun exposure to rupturing of the skin surface, medication, inflammation, hormonal changes and other health conditions. Some hyperpigmentation may be temporary and fade over time, others can be long term.  

Skincare for Hyperpigmentation  

There is a range of skincare and ingredients that can be used to assist with hyperpigmentation. The most common ingredient on the market is Vitamin C, this wonderful ingredient can block an enzyme that forms melanin. It can also be used to treat uneven skin tone and help with strengthening the skin barrier. 
 

Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3 is also a powerful ingredient used in skincare products that can be used to combat hyperpigmentation. as it reduces the transfer of melanin. This ingredient is a strong antioxidant that reduces the transfer of melanin, reduce inflammation, improve skin texture and assist with free radical damage.  
 

If you are not using an AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), it’s time to start! AHA is a chemical exfoliant that is used to exfoliate and buff away our dead skin cells! A popular type of AHA is lactic acid, it can be used to improve your skin tone and signs of discolouration. AHA can be used 1-2 times per week depending on your skin type and sensitivity. Make sure you don’t overuse an AHA as it can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.   
 

One of the most important methods to prevent skin damage and sunspots is to use an SPF that is suited to the Australian Climate, typically an SPF of 50 is recommended. Also, be sure to reapply your SPF throughout the day!  

Laser Pigmentation Removal 

There are several different types of treatment that can assist with treating pigmentation. IPL Pigmentation Correction removal is a safe and relatively non-invasive method to remove benign hyperpigmentation including reducing the appearance of freckles, discoloration, sunspots, liver spots and age spots.  

IPL or Pulsed Light uses IPL machines controlled beams of filtered light to breakdown the pigments cells, with the laser only targeting the pigment areas and therefore not damaging the surrounding skin around the pigmentation. The pigmented area absorbs the light and is heated to the point that the pigment is shattered and then flushed away by our bodies lymphatic drainage system. During the process, the skin renews itself with fresh and healthy regenerated cells.  

In the days following treatment, the pigmented areas turn darker and usually forms a light crust. Over the following weeks the pigment will gradually flake away, leaving the little to no trace of the original mark. A series of sessions is usually recommended, spaced a few weeks apart for best results. Treatments can be performed on the neck, face, decollate, arms and back of hands.   

Q-Switch (Q-Switched Laser) is another type of laser for pigmentation removal and is a common and highly effective option to treat melasma and stubborn hyperpigmentation such as acne scarring and birth marks in a similar way that they fade tattoos.  This method stimulates your skin’s natural collagen via short pulses of light energy directed into the discoloured areas, disrupting the pigment leading to fading and clearing of the targeted area in the weeks following treatment. The energy delivered by Q-switched lasers also remodels skin collagen and improves overall texture and tone. 

Your hyperpigmentation is gone, now what? 

Once your hyperpigmentation is removed, it is vital that you take steps to ensure you maintain and look after your skin with skincare and continue to protect your skin with SPF. Additional sun exposure can cause the pigmentation to redevelop so the aftercare is crucial! Extra maintenance sessions can also be booked to complete laser treatment to keep your skin clear and rejuvenated. 

This article was in joint partnership with wholesale salon suppliers, The Global Beauty Group. If you are interested in finding out more about the treatments mentioned in this article or wanting to find a treatment specialist your area please contact beauty supplier, The Global Beauty Group?on 1300 006 607.