How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation

How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation, or dark spots on the skin, can be tricky to get rid of. If you are dealing with this condition, you are not alone. Many people struggle with this common condition. The good news is there are a number of treatments that can help lighten your skin and get rid of the pesky brown spots on your face and other areas of the body. Many are available over-the-counter (OTC) or as a prescription given by a dermatologist. 

Share This Post

Hyperpigmentation, or dark spots on the skin, can be tricky to get rid of. If you are dealing with this condition, you are not alone.

Many people struggle with this common condition. 

The good news is there are a number of treatments that can help lighten your skin and get rid of the pesky brown spots on your face and other areas of the body.

Many are available over-the-counter (OTC) or as a prescription given by a dermatologist. 

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology defines hyperpigmentation as, “a common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding skin.” 

Melanin is a brown pigment that is responsible for determining a person’s skin color. It is made by special skin cells known as melanocytes.

These cells can be found in between the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) and the deeper layers of skin (the dermis).

The more melanin that is made by melanocytes, the darker your skin will be.

Hyperpigmentation develops when there is more melanin made by some skin cells than others, which creates dark spots that stand out from your normal skin. 

Types of Hyperpigmentation

There are three main types of hyperpigmentation: age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Each type is caused by something different, whether it be sun exposure, aging, pregnancy, or more. Knowing the type of hyperpigmentation you have can help you choose the right treatments to get rid of it.

Age Spots

Age spots are one of the most common types of hyperpigmentation.

These are flat dark spots on the skin caused by sun exposure, and they are mainly found on the hands, arms, shoulders, and face. 

Age spots are common in people ages 50 and older, but they can occur in younger people who are in the sun for extended periods of time. Other names for age spots include sun spots, liver spots, or solar lentigines.

Melasma

Melasma, also known as chloasma, is a hyperpigmentation condition that can develop for a number of reasons.

It can appear as blue-gray, light brown, or dark brown areas on the skin, mainly in the forearms and face. Melasma affects women much more than men (90 percent of cases are in women, while only 10 percent are in men).

In fact, melasma is known as the “mask of pregnancy” because it can make dark patches on the faces of pregnant women.

Between 15 to 50 percent of pregnant women will develop melasma. Other causes for the condition include taking certain medications, family history, and using certain skin care products. 

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) develops in areas where there has been inflammation from acne or psoriasis, bug bites, or other skin damage.

PIH can develop in anyone, but it is more common in people with darker skin (African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, Pacific Islanders, and people of Middle Eastern descent). 

YouTube player

Treatments to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation

If you are looking for ways to get rid of your hyperpigmentation, there are several options you can choose from.

Some treatments may work better for you than others, depending on the type of hyperpigmentation you have, your skin tone, and how sensitive your skin is.

Consult with your doctor and/or dermatologist before beginning any of these treatments to ensure you are making the best choice for your specific case. 

Skin Acids

Skin acids, or face acids, are safe chemicals that exfoliate the skin and clear away dead skin cells to make room for new ones.

This can even out your skin tone and lighten up areas of hyperpigmentation. Examples of skin acids include:

Skin acid products are sold as oils, lotions, and creams.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using products that contain 10 percent or less AHA. Products that contain more may be too intense to use at home, and are best used by a dermatologist.

If you are using products with AHA, be sure to apply sunscreen to prevent sunburns.

Your hyperpigmentation may become worse if precautions are not taken because it is sensitive after these treatments. 

Retinoids

Retinoids are compounds derived from vitamin A. They are extremely useful for treating hyperpigmentation because they prevent skin cells from making more melanin.

In addition, retinoids are small compounds that can reach the melanocytes in the deeper layers of the skin to be more effective than other treatments.

They can also help skin cells rejuvenate and get rid of old, dead cells. 

Hydroquinone reduces the number of melanocytes in the skin, creating a bleaching effect that lightens the skin over time.

This can also help stop hyperpigmentation from coming back, because there are fewer cells to make more pigment.

Retinoids are available OTC in the form of retinols, or as a prescription from your dermatologist. They can be used to treat melasma and PIH. 

Lightening Creams

Lightening creams are made with special ingredients that help lighten the skin. Ingredients, like licorice extract, niacinamide (from vitamin B3), and N-acetyl glucosamine  stop skin cells from making melanin.

They can also stop dark patches from forming after exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which come from the sun. 

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels use higher concentrations of skin acids to remove the layer(s) of skin with hyperpigmentation.

Melanocytes, which are the skin cells that make melanin, are found between the epidermis and dermis. Chemical peels can remove these layers to take away the pigment-producing cells, treating hyperpigmentation.

Chemical peels can be intense treatments, and it may be best to seek the help of a dermatologist.

There are products available over-the-counter (OTC) as well that can be used with caution. However, if you have sensitive skin, you may want to consider other treatment options.

Chemical peels contain skin acids that can make the skin sensitive to sunlight. Be sure to apply sunscreen before going outside in the week after a chemical peel, or your skin may become inflamed and make your hyperpigmentation worse.

These treatments can be used for age spots, melasma, and PIH. 

Dermabrasion

A dermabrasion uses an electric device with an abrasive brush or wheel to gently remove the top and middle layers of the skin.

One type of dermabrasion, known as a microdermabrasion, works on only the top layers of skin to remove areas of discoloration.

Once the skin has healed (after about eight weeks) it will be smoother and the dark patches of skin will be gone.

It may take a few sessions of dermabrasion to see improvements, especially if the hyperpigmentation is spread over a large area or it is deep in the skin.  

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments use intense beams of light to treat hyperpigmentation. These procedures are called laser peels or skin resurfacing.

There are two types of lasers used, ablative lasers and nonablative lasers.

Ablative lasers work just like chemical peels to remove the outer layer of the skin. They also heat the deeper layers of the skin, causing them to make collagen.

This means that there are several benefits, including removing areas of hyperpigmentation while making the skin tighter and smoother

Nonablative lasers, on the other hand, do not remove any layers of skin.

Instead, they stimulate the skin cells to make more collagen, which can make it smoother and even out the tone. One type of nonablative laser treatment is intense pulse light (IPL) therapy, which can work well for treating hyperpigmentation.

References, Studies and Sources

  1. Hyperpigmentation – American Osteopathic College of Dermatology
  2. Skin layers and melanin – Mayo Clinic
  3. Age spots (liver spots) – Mayo Clinic
  4. Melasma – Cleveland Clinic
  5. Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation – StatPearls [Internet]
  6. Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation – The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology
  7. Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available? – Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery
  8. Azelaic Acid Topical – MedlinePlus
  9. The effect of Vitamin C on melanin pigmentation – a systematic review – Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
  10. Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin – Molecules
  11. Comparative Study for 35% Glycolic Acid, 20% Salicylic Acid–10% Mandelic Acid, and Phytic Acid Combination Peels in the Treatment of Active Acne and Postacne Pigmentation
  12. Alpha Hydroxy Acids – Food and Drug Administration
  13. Topical Retinoids for Pigmented Skin – Journal of Drugs in Dermatology
  14. Chemical peel – Mayo Clinic
  15. Dermabrasion – Mayo Clinic
  16. Laser resurfacing – Mayo Clinic

We are committed to providing our readers with only trusted resources and science-based studies with regards to medication and health information. 

Disclaimer: This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you suspect medical problems or need medical help or advice, please talk with your healthcare professional.

Share This Post

Pharmacists.org Discount Club

Get Started for $1.

  • Cheapest cash pay option at your retail pharmacy
  • 1,000s of drugs below $10.00 that can beat your co-pay
  • Start for $1 for your first month. Cancel anytime. 
  • Tell us your meds, we tell you the cheapest options.

Popular Destinations

Recent Articles

Stress Acne: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Stress Acne: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Stress. It's a powerful emotion that can wreak havoc on your body. One way that stress can appear is on your skin in the form of stress acne. Stress causes acne by increasing oil production and clogging pores, which leads to an overgrowth of bacteria. To combat this unwanted side effect of stress, we have created a guide with everything you need to know about stress acne: its causes, prevention strategies, and treatments.

Read More »
Cystic Acne

Cystic Acne: What Is It, And How Do You Treat It?

Cystic acne is a type of acne that causes cysts to form deep in the skin. These cysts are often painful and may take weeks or months to heal. If you have cystic acne, then you may need a dermatologist's help. In this article, we will answer all your questions about cystic acne, what it is, who can get it, how do you diagnose it, how do you treat cystic acne, and more.

Read More »
A Guide to Anti Aging Cream for Men

A Guide to Anti Aging Cream for Men

It is frequently said that men are like fine wine – they get better with age. And while in general, men may seem to age more gracefully than women, having a regular skin care routine can help keep your skin looking revitalized. Below are some active ingredients to look for in your anti-aging creams that have been clinically proven to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Read More »
Fordyce Spots, A Mystery Revealed

Fordyce Spots, A Mystery Revealed

Fordyce spots, also called Fordyce granules, are small yellowish-white bumps that appear on the shaft of the penis, labia majora or labia minora, scrotum, around and inside the mouth, and nipples. These spots can grow to up to 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter and will become slightly bigger when sexually aroused. Fordyce spots are not harmful and do not require treatment but they can be an embarrassing problem for some people causing anxiety, stress, or discomfort when in public areas such as the locker room at the gym.

Read More »

Share On:

More To Explore

Stress Acne: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Stress. It's a powerful emotion that can wreak havoc on your body. One way that stress can appear is on your skin in the

Cystic Acne: What Is It, And How Do You Treat It?

Cystic acne is a type of acne that causes cysts to form deep in the skin. These cysts are often painful and may take

A Guide to Anti Aging Cream for Men

It is frequently said that men are like fine wine – they get better with age. And while in general, men may seem to

Is Clindamycin Right for You as an Acne Treatment?

Learn more as we discuss clindamycin for acne, how clindamycin works, the different forms of treatment, and whether it is the right form of

Fordyce Spots, A Mystery Revealed

Fordyce spots, also called Fordyce granules, are small yellowish-white bumps that appear on the shaft of the penis, labia majora or labia minora, scrotum,

Clearing Up Butt Acne: Treatment, Prevention and More

Red bumps that appear like acne on the buttocks can occur in both men and women and is a common skin condition. Continue reading

How Much Does Accutane Cost?

As generic forms of the drug entered the market, the cost of the medication has come down, so how much does Accutane cost today?

Your Comparison Guide of Minocycline vs Doxycycline

Minocycline and Doxycycline are both second-generation tetracycline-class antibiotics. They both are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have been proven effective for the treatment of acne, also known as acne vulgaris, but what else is

How to Diagnose and Treat Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor is a common skin infection that causes red, scaly patches on the chest, back, or neck. You may also see flaky white

10 Best Ways to Help Prevent and Remove Blackheads

Blackheads develop when sebum from oil glands gets trapped in hair follicles or pores. Bacteria build up after time, so removing blackheads is important

What Is Minocycline?

Minocycline is a second-generation antibiotic in the tetracycline class of antibiotics. Second-generation, in this case, means that it is a semi-synthetic compound; first-generation tetracyclines are naturally

What is Accutane?

What is Accutane and can it really be used to treat acne? Read our latest blog for more details!

The Difference Between Tretinoin, Retinol, and Retinoids

Topical treatments like tretinoin, retinol, and retinoids for acne and wrinkles can be a little confusing to understand what each one is and what

What is Melasma and How Do You Treat It?

Melasma, sometimes referred to as chloasma, is a skin disorder characterized by darker spots on the skin. The patches can vary in color

A Comprehensive Guide to Minocycline for Acne

If you suffer from acne, there is a targeted medication for treating acne–minocycline. Minocycline is a prescription drug used to treat infections by preventing

Tretinoin Strengths and How They Work With Acne

Tretinoin is a topical medication that is used for the treatment of acne, also called acne vulgaris, and the most common brand in the

How to Deal with Blood Blisters

Blood blisters are a medical condition where fluid-filled bubbles grow out of blood vessels in the skin. They form under the skin and can

Geologie Review: Does This Personalized Men’s Skincare Work?

Geologie offers personalized skin care products tailored to each male customer they have. The personal touch is certainly nice, but do their products really

Understanding Melasma Treatments

Melasma is a skin conition that is characterized by hyperpigmented spots on the skin. Melasma is sometimes referred to as chloasma. The spots are most

Everyday Tips for Anti-Aging Skin Care

With so many anti-aging products available on the market, it is overwhelming to find which products actually work and are worth spending money on

Body Acne 101: Prevention and Treatment

Body acne is a common condition that affects many people, especially during puberty. It can appear anywhere on your body and can be unsightly

Paronychia: What You Need to Know

Many people are unaware that paronychia is a nail infection. Paronychia usually affects one or more of your fingers, but can also affect your

The ABCs of Skin Lesions

Skin lesions can be a source of anxiety for many people. Whether they're due to an infection, injury, or disease, skin lesions are often

Perioral Dermatitis: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Perioral dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs around the mouth. It often starts with red, inflamed patches and may then progress to

Niacinamide and Vitamin C: Benefits for Your Skin

Niacinamide and Vitamin C are two popular ingredients that you can use to improve the health of your skin. Niacinamide is a form of

Hyperpigmentation and Acne

Acne is the most common skin condition that affects people of all ages. In fact, roughly 80 percent of people ages 11 to 30 have

What is Clindamycin Phosphate?

Clindamycin phosphate is a salt form of the antibiotic medicine clindamycin. Clindamycin phosphate provides coverage for bacteria that are resistant to erythromycin, methicillin, or penicillin. Clindamycin is used to treat acne, also known as acne vulgaris,

15 of the Most Common Types of Skin Lesions and Prevention Strategies

Skin lesions are common skin conditions that appear as an abnormal growth. There are many skin lesions, each of which is caused by a

Collagen Supplements: Does the Research Support the Hype?

The use of collagen supplements is becoming a popular health trend. Collagen is an important protein in your body, and collagen supplements may have

Treating Acne with Spironolactone

Acne is a common skin condition that affects adolescents to adults. But when your acne doesn’t respond to typical treatments, your dermatologist may prescribe