Many women have some form of pigmentation on their skin, especially on their faces. This can typically results in the formation of dark spots that can vary in size from minor spotting to patches that vary in size and shape. These dark spots or patches are what is called hyperpigmentation. While it is especially common in women with darker skin tones, hyperpigmentation affects all skin tones in various ways. People with very fair to medium skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation that develops as a result of sunspots. No matter your skin tone, learning about what causes hyperpigmentation and how to prevent it will have your skin thanking your for years to come.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a general term for a variety of issues that result in skin discolorations. These can be caused by things like acne, freckles that have clustered, sunspots, darkened skin patches that come from things such as psoriasis, or, worst of all, sun damage.
The above skin issues all lead to an over-production of melanocytes. This overproduction leads to an excess of melanin being produced in your skin, especially in the delicate skin cells on the face. Eventually, these spots develop into deeper and deeper layers of the skin, leading to hyperpigmentation spots. Over time, things like sunlight and skin damage will worsen, leading to lasting dark spots or patches.
How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation
When it comes to hyperpigmentation prevention, the number one thing you can do is to limit sun exposure. Excessive exposure to sun ways is the number one reason that hyperpigmentation occurs. Remember, even if you begin protecting your skin vigorously from overexposure today, the damage that leads to hyperpigmentation likely started in your teen years when many people were less prone to use sunscreen on a regular basis.
Sunscreen is your first line of defense when it comes to preventing hyperpigmentation. However, taking an extra step by wearing a stylish hat or bringing an umbrella to the beach can even better protect your skin from the potential of future hyperpigmentation.
If you are already seeing minor dark spots, professional brightening skincare products can help ensure that the spots don’t develop even further. Facial skin is also a lot more sensitive than you may think. Resist the temptation to pick at blemishes, blackheads or bug bites. Make sure you are using a high-quality moisturizer. You only get one face; think of purchasing quality products and professional treatments at least once a year as a long-term investment in the face you show to the world.
At DermApproach of Reston, VA, we offer many treatments to address hyperpigmentation that has already been formed on the skin. Hyperpigmentation can be easily treated by minimally invasive hi procedures such as laser skin treatments and advanced corrective facials. While we still recommend continuing taking preventative measures as you age, sometimes established hyperpigmentation may need a professional approach.
