We are all aware of the negative effects that can come from having dark spots on our skin. These unsightly blotches can show up at any age and be caused by a number of factors, including genetics or sun exposure. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat these unwanted marks! Nowadays, many pigmentation removal treatments offer highly efective results in removing dark spots on the skin.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is dark spots on the skin that can be caused by many factors, including acne scars and sun damage. Other common causes of hyperpigmentation include hormonal changes, genetics and aging.
While it isn’t typically dangerous, hyperpigmentation can cause low self-esteem and depression in sufferers. According to a recent survey , 25% of people would rather have a cavity than an unsightly spot on their face! Hyperpigmentation can also make you appear older, which is unfortunate considering we all want to maintain a youthful appearance.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
There are many possible causes of hyperpigmentation, including hormonal changes, genetics, significant sun exposure or skin damage. While many times hyperpigmentation is caused by a combination of factors, there are several common reasons that this condition occurs.
Sun Damage
Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays is a leading cause of hyperpigmentation. This type of damage causes an overproduction of melanin, which gives skin its color. As a result, dark spots can appear on areas of the skin most exposed to the sun such as the face and hands. In some cases, these marks may be permanent or extremely difficult to treat through topical applications alone.
Genetics
Heredity plays a very important role in determining how likely it is for someone to have dark spots on their skin. Many forms of acne actually begin as small patches that become larger over time. This type of discoloration can be caused by many different factors, but often appears as a result of prolonged inflammation associated with acne breakouts .
Hormonal Changes
Oftentimes dark spots will appear on the face during puberty or pregnancy. This is usually because of an increase in hormones that can induce abnormal melanin production. While hormonal changes fade after the period ends, these marks may leave behind scars if not treated properly.
Melasma
Melasma, also known as “the mask of pregnancy” tends to occur in pregnant women who have already given birth before. As much as 50% of pregnant women may also develop melasma after giving birth, which begins to fade within 6 months postpartum . Although many forms look like dark spots, melasma is actually a darkening of the skin and does not appear as small lesions or acne like bumps.
What are the Best Treatments for Hyperpigmentation?
Pico Laser
One of the best treatments for hyperpigmentation is laser skin resurfacing with the Pico Laser. This particular device has been clinically proven to be one of the most effective methods in pigmentation removal and other forms of scarring due to its ability to remove damaged tissue without harming surrounding healthy cells. The unique picosecond pulse technology allows the Pico laser to break up pigment at a molecular level while simultaneously rebuilding collagen. Collagen is an essential protein that keeps your skin firm , so any treatment that encourages increased collagen production can have long-lasting effects even after you stop using it.
Crystal Tomato
A unique treatment that uses a combination of tomato extract and hydroquinone to lighten dark spots on the skin is Crystal Tomato. Using a series of chemical peels , this treatment gradually removes damaged tissue from the skin while increasing the production of healthy collagen.
How Do You Know Which Hyperpigmentation Treatment is Right for You?
If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, it is important that you consult with a dermatologist who specializes in laser skin treatments such as the Pico Laser. Choosing to continue living with these dark spots can be depressing and prevent you from enjoying yourself without worrying about how others perceive your appearance. This is why seeking help from a professional is always the best way to go when deciding on a course of treatment.
