Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is caused by sun damage, inflammation, or skin injuries, and is often related to acne. Hyperpigmentation can also be the result of hormones (birth control or pregnancy). This is called melasma, or the mask of pregnancy. People with darker skin types are more prone to hyperpigmentation than those with lighter skin, especially when there is excessive exposure to the sun.

Many forms of hyperpigmentation are caused by an overproduction of melanin. Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin, and they're found in the lower layer of the skin. Melanin is responsible for producing color in places such as the eyes, skin, and hair. As the body ages, melanocyte regulation becomes less controlled by the body and begins to appear on the skin. UV light stimulates melanocyte activity, thus contributing to the reason why sun damage is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation in the skin.

There are home care options for hyperpigmentation, such as retinol, hydroxy acids, or hydroquinone, which is a bleaching agent for the skin. Plus, sunscreens are essential to treating any cause of hyperpigmentation. There are also in-office procedures, including microdermabrasion, chemical peels and Fraxel® re:store laser treatment.

Sunflower Dermatology offers the following skin products for hyperpigmentation:

Coolibar Sun Protective Clothing SPF 50
Coolibar Sun Protective Hats SPF 50
SkinCeuticals Pholretin CF
Epiquin Micro, Hydroquinone (prescription product)
Eco-Sport SPF 30
SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Defense SPF 50
SkinCeuticals Physical Defense SPF 30
Skinceuticles Pigment Regulator