Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which patches of skin become darker in colour than the surrounding skin. It affects individuals of all ages, genders, and ethnicities and can occur due to a variety of factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, and certain medications. While hyperpigmentation is not harmful, it can have a negative impact on one’s self-esteem. This is especially true if the hyperpigmentation occurs in visible areas of the body, such as the face. This would cause individuals to feel self-conscious or embarrassed about their appearance.
Hyperpigmentation and dark spots often pose as common skin concerns for many individuals so we turned to the experts at Vital Skin, to shed some light regarding this topic and most importantly to share with us the treatment options available. According to Emily, an aesthetician at Vital Skin, “Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening or increased pigmentation of certain areas of the skin, it occurs when an excess amount of melanin (the pigment responsible for skin colour) is produced in specific areas.”
Causes of Hyperpigmentation
Emily notes that hyperpigmentation can be caused by various factors as highlighted below and it’s therefore important to consult a skincare professional to understand the cause before looking into any treatment options.
Sun Exposure
The ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun stimulate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) to produce more melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation and the formation of dark spots. Dark spots, age spots, and sunspots, are all types of hyperpigmentation caused primarily by sun damage.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, oral contraceptives, and certain medications can trigger the overproduction of melanin, resulting in dark patches, most notably melasma.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
PIH is characterised by dark spots or patches that appear as the skin heals. Acne, cuts, burns, injuries, or inflammation can leave behind dark marks or scars that gradually fade but can take a long time to disappear completely.
Ageing
As we age, the production of melanin can become more erratic, leading to the development of age spots or an overall uneven skin tone
Skin Conditions
Certain skin conditions like melasma, eczema, psoriasis, and even some allergies can lead to hyperpigmentation.
Treatment Options for Clearing Hyperpigmentation & Dark Spots
There are several innovative treatments to help minimise the appearance of hyperpigmentation, ranging from topical creams to chemical peels and laser therapy. For faster results for stubborn hyperpigmentation, professional procedures are recommended. Vital Skin Kenya offers the following procedures to get rid of hyperpigmentation:
Microneedling
This is one of the most effective procedures to clear PIH e.g. acne hyperpigmentation. Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries, stimulating collagen production and fading dark spots. The price range for Microneedling starts from KES 5500.
Pepinfusion
This involves infusing tyrosine inhibitors- chemicals that directly or indirectly inhibit the production of melanin into the skin to promote faster penetration and hence faster results. Tyrosine inhibitors treat almost every form of hyperpigmentation. The price range is from KES 7500.
Hydra Exfoliation
This procedure involves exfoliating the skin and infusing tyrosine inhibitors to gently removes dead skin cells and promote skin renewal, improving hyperpigmentation. The price range of this treatment procedure is from KES 15000.
Algae Peel
This is an exfoliating peel containing algae extracts that help to brighten the skin and fade dark spots. It is considered to be “herbal Microneedling” and the price range is from KES 11,000.
What are at-home treatment options?
While professional help is the most recommendable way to go about treating hyperpigmentation, there are some at home treatments that you can try. Here are Emily’s recommendations for at home hyperpigmentation treatments.
Are there any at-home treatment options you can recommend?
“Yes, you can treat hyperpigmentation at home with skincare products. There are various skincare ingredients available that can help fade hyperpigmentation.
Look for products containing ingredients like Kojic acid, Azelaic acid, Retinoids, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Licorice extract, or Alpha arbutin. Look for products containing at least three of these ingredients for better results.”
How do these ingredients help?
“These ingredients can help inhibit melanin production, promote skin cell turnover, and reduce the appearance of dark spots over time. Exfoliants such as Lactic acid, Mandelic acid, Salicylic acid, and Glycolic acid can also be incorporated to help with the process.”
Tips for preventing hyperpigmentation
Sun protection
Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Protective clothing
Cover exposed areas with clothing, hats, and sunglasses for additional sun protection.
Gentle skincare routine
Use mild cleansers, avoid harsh scrubs, and opt for products that contain brightening ingredients like vitamin C.
Avoid picking at blemishes
Picking at acne or blemishes can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so keep your hands away from your face.
Regular exfoliation
Incorporate exfoliating treatments into your skincare routine to help promote skin cell turnover and fade dark spots over time.
It’s important to be patient with your skin when dealing with hyperpigmentation, treatment results can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Consistency and patience are key as it may take several weeks or months to see noticeable improvements. It’s always advisable to consult with a skincare professional who can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most suitable treatment options for you.
Vital Skin Kenya has a team of skincare professionals who are well-equipped to help you with any skin-related concerns. They are located in Parklands- Diamond Plaza 1 and you can contact them at +254758261570 for any inquiries. Additionally, you can interact with their Instagram Page to view other treatment options/procedures as well as have a look at their before and after skin success stories.
