Have you tried to treat dark spots yourself and did not get the desired result? Do you notice new dark spots appearing as old ones fade?
If you said yes, you are not alone. One of the most common reasons dark-skinned people see a dermatologist is because of dark spots and blemishes. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the medical term for one of the causes of these dark spots. Some people just call it hyperpigmentation.
Figuring out why you have these dark spots or patches is the first step in getting rid of hyperpigmentation. Many stains will disappear on their own when the cause is removed, and you can prevent new ones from forming.
What factors contribute to hyperpigmentation?
People with a medium to dark skin tone get dark spots and blotches because their skin produces an excess of melanin, the substance that gives the skin its color. Many everyday things can cause extra melanin to be produced in dark-skinned people.
- When a psoriasis pimple or patch goes away, dark spots and patches often appear.
- An insect bite, cut, burn or other type of injury heals.
- You take (or use) certain medicines.
- Your skin is irritated by a skin or hair care product.
- Hormonal changes, for example, occur during pregnancy.
How do you treat hyperpigmentation in dark-skinned people?
Treatment is determined by the cause of your hyperpigmentation. The treatment for each cause is explained below:
A skin condition such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis: Until lose pigmentation caused by a skin condition, the skin condition must first be treated properly. When the breakouts or flare-ups stop, you’ve eliminated the cause of the hyperpigmentation.
Most dark spots will eventually disappear on their own, but it can take a long time.
Skin injury: As the wound heals, you may notice a dark spot or blotch on your skin. If you don’t re-injure your skin, the hyperpigmentation will fade over time.
Skin care product: When a skin or hair care product irritates your skin, dark spots can form.
If you notice dark spots, use gentler products. They are less prone to skin irritation.
Skin-friendly products are often labeled as ‘for sensitive skin’. You may also see the phrase “fragrance-free” on the label.
When your skin is no longer irritated, new dark spots no longer appear and existing ones often disappear on their own.
How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?
Once the source of the dark spots or spots has been identified and eliminated, fading may take some time. A few shades darker than your natural skin tone will usually fade within 6 to 12 months.
However, if the color is deeply embedded in your skin, it can take years to fade. Deep-seated skin discoloration is often slate blue to gray in color. It can also be brown, but it will be much darker than your natural skin tone.
Treatment can hasten the disappearance of dark spots and blemishes.
What are Dermatologists’ Recommendations for Hyperpigmentation Treatments?
Sunscreen is the first step in treating dark spots and blemishes.
When you go outside, whether you’re treating the dark spots alone or seeing a dermatologist, it’s critical to wear sunscreen. When used daily, sunscreen can help prevent the formation of new dark spots and blemishes. It can also help remove existing ones.
Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin that is not covered by clothing.
Dermatologists also recommend wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outside for best results.
Use a sunscreen that contains all of the following ingredients to get the protection you need to prevent (and help remove) dark spots:
- SPF 30 or higher
- Broad Spectrum Defense
- Water resistance
- Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, one (or both) of these active ingredients
- If you have oily skin, look for a non-comedogenic formula (doesn’t clog pores).
Use a product that will help even out your skin tone.
Once you’ve removed the source of the dark spots and protected your skin from the sun, a product that can fade dark spots (or even out your skin tone) is more likely to be more effective.
You may find success with an over-the-counter product. If you go this route, make sure you use a product that contains one of the following ingredients:
- azelaic acid
- kojic acid
- vitamin C
- glycolic acid (AHA)
- retinol
These ingredients have the ability to lighten existing dark spots. In some cases, the ingredient can also slow down melanin production, which causes dark spots and blemishes.
Some products designed to remove dark spots do more harm than good.
Be careful when buying a product that can fade dark spots. Some products contain ingredients that can be very harmful to your skin and health.
Researchers discovered steroids or mercury in skin care products imported from other countries that were not listed on the product label.
The steroids in these products can cause pimples and rashes. If you unknowingly apply it to your skin for an extended period of time, the steroids can cause it to become thin, brittle and permanently discolored.
Is hyperpigmentation a treatable condition?
While you can remove the dark spots and blemishes, new ones may appear.
While you can’t cure all forms of hyperpigmentation, you can prevent it from returning. Here’s what dermatologists suggest:
- Sunscreen should be applied every two hours, as well as after swimming or sweating.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat when you go outside.
- Avoid being outside when the sun is at its strongest, which is between 10am and 2pm
- Use skin care products that are gentle on the skin. Stop using a product if it burns or stings when you apply it.
- Keep looking for the source of the dark spots. For example, if you have a skin condition, you should continue to treat it.
What can a dermatologist do to help with hyperpigmentation?
If the treatment you are using does not produce the desired results, you should consult a dermatologist. Pigmentation Treatment in Mumbai can be difficult due to the heat and pollution. A prescription strength treatment may be needed to remove some dark spots or blemishes.
A good dermatologist has the knowledge and skills to safely combine treatments for the best results.
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