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If dark spots or hyperpigmentation has been bothering you for quite some time, it’s time you breathe a sigh of relief. Today, you have more options than ever to not only get rid of those harmless yet undesirable dark patches but to prevent them from occurring again.

But what exactly is hyperpigmentation? It would be a patch of skin appearing darker than your natural skin tone, usually because your skin has been overproducing melanin.

What are the Factors Causing Hyperpigmentation?

The Cleveland Clinic states that there are four common factors behind hyperpigmentation, and they usually affect people to varying degrees, regardless of their skin tone.

Sun Exposure

The Mayo Clinic states that our body produces extra melanin to protect the skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays. This excess melanin is responsible for tanning your skin. However, when sun exposure tends to be excessive or frequent, it can cause dark sunspots to appear.

Though sunspots are cancerous, sun-exposed skin can develop precancerous blemishes that look much like sunspots. Because of this reason, you must have your skin checked yearly to receive a clean online medical certificate from your doctor.

Inflammation

Skin trauma in the form of bug bits, acne, eczema, scraps, cuts, or vigorous rubbing and scratching can result in inflammation. Inflammation triggers pigment-producing cells that leave behind dark spots after the area is healed. The discolouration left behind after inflammation is usually called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Melasma

Melasma refers to brown patches on the skin that can be seen in women who undergo frequent fluctuations in hormones, typically during pregnancy. Though it is common in women, men can also develop melasma.

Medication or Medical Conditions

Certain drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antimalarials, and antibiotics, are associated with the risk of developing hyperpigmentation. Certain chemotherapy drugs may also result in hyperpigmentation. Similarly, medical conditions, such as Addison’s disease, can trigger hyperpigmentation because of increased melanin production in the body.

What are the Best Ways of Treating and Preventing Hyperpigmentation?

Fortunately, there are several scientifically proven steps you can take to treat hyperpigmentation. Let’s take a quick look at them:

1. Keeping the Skin Moist to Increase Cell Turnover

While your goal may be to lighten dark spots, using an over-the-counter moisturizer can help your skin in different ways. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerine, and retinol can improve cell turnover. On top of that, they also ensure that active brighteners can do their job more efficiently. Thus, using a good moisturizer will help your new skin cells remain healthy after replacing the old ones.

2. Protecting the Skin from Sun Exposure

Many people take it lightly, but the best way to prevent sun-induced discolouration is to generously apply a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher each day, preferably after every three hours, even on cool or cloudy days.

Because SPF can protect your skin from UVB short-wave rays, you should choose products containing Parsol 1789, Mexoryl, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or avobenzone to protect yourself from UVA long-wave rays.

Additionally, you should also avoid going outdoors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., because the sun tends to be the strongest.

3. Exploring Various Over-the-Counter (OTC) Whitening Options

If you are concerned about hyperpigmentation, it’s helpful to seek advice early, as the appearance of dark spots can change over time. There are a range of skincare products available over the counter that may help improve the appearance of pigmentation. Ingredients such as glycolic acid, azelaic acid, retinoids, and vitamin C are commonly found in cosmetic products that aim to brighten the skin. For personalised advice on managing pigmentation, it’s best to consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

4. Considering an Rx to Treat Stubborn Discolouration

If over-the-counter products are not improving your skin concerns, it’s best to consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist. They can assess your condition and discuss suitable treatment options. Some treatments for pigmentation and skin concerns require a prescription, which can only be provided if deemed clinically appropriate after a medical consultation. Your doctor will guide you on the correct use of any prescribed treatment and advise on potential side effects, such as increased skin sensitivity.

5. Seeking High-Tech Options from Your Dermatologist

If topical skincare products are not improving your skin concerns, a dermatologist may discuss other professional procedures, such as chemical peels or laser treatments, and help determine which approach might be suitable for your skin.

Wrapping Up

Besides sun protection and treatment, there are other steps you can take to prevent or minimize the occurrence of future dark spots. It’s best to stick to gentle skincare products that don’t burn or sting because irritation can trigger or worsen hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation is infamous for causing mental distress that can severely impact your self-esteem and quality of life. If no number of cosmetic products has done you any good, it is time you consider scheduling an appointment with our online doctors in Prime Medic.

Our doctors offer video consultations and can not only prescribe medications for your condition but can also help you to get online doctors' certificate.

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Name: Dr. Muhammad Mohsin, General Practitioner
University Degree: MBBS, AMC
Bio: Dr Muhammad Mohsin completed his studies at the University of Health Sciences Lahore, Pakistan, in 2008. He came to Australia in 2012 and has worked as a resident and GP in various hospitals and medical centres across Australia. He has a particular interest in men's health, travel medicine, chronic disease management, and general family medicine.