Hyperpigmentation- a darkening of an area on the skin. Hyper- is the over stimulation and production of pigment- or a.k.a. melanin cells responding to the reaction of the body's immune system. This reaction triggers melanoctye activity to protect the skin's DNA from damage and mutation.
Causes
1. UV-induced hyperpigmentation (sun damage, "liver spots")- overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, fluorescent and ambient lighting. How to identify: spotty, freckle-like.
2. Melasma- induced by hormone fluctuations. A.k.a, the "pregnancy mask," melasma can be associated with oral contraceptives, pregnancy, thyroid dysfunction and menopause, to name a few. This may or may not subside once the hormone imbalance is normalized and balanced. UV exposure may worsen melasma. How to identify: large, dark, symmetrical patches and jagged borders.
3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation- pigment is deposited as a result of surface irritation, inflammation or abrasion of the epidermis. How to identify: darkened areas around the sites of trauma. Examples of trauma include but are not limited too: acne, dermatitis, eczema, bug bites, ill-fitting undergarments and other clothing friction may cause discoloration such as "bra burn."
So after all this information, you may be asking, how do I control hyperpigmentation? Gentle exfoliation. Using gentle peeling agents that inhibit melanin cells to produce, which cause the darkening of the skin, will help treat this skin condition. Multiple chemical peel treatments to lift and lighten pigmentation will control the hyperpigmentation, the reason? With natural cell turnover, if the hyperpigmentation is not treated routinely, deeper pigment will rise to the surface of the skin and making it darker once again. PCA skin peels are a great tool that have inhibitors (lighteners) for the melanincytes. And don't forget, sunscreen! :)
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