Is hyperpigmentation curable? While you can get rid of the dark spots and patches, new ones can form. Even though you cannot cure all forms of hyperpigmentation, you can prevent it from developing again.
Depending upon the cause of your hyperpigmentation, it may eventually go away on its own, but melasma—the type that's caused by hormones—is the most stubborn. “Melasma is most common in medium skin tones and it's very difficult to treat.
You can take some comfort in knowing that hyperpigmentation can fade away, pretty much completely, over time. It can actually take from 3 to 24 months to hyperpigmentation to fully fade6, though in tough cases it could take even longer. The most important thing you can do for your skin after a treatment, is be gentle.
Can pigmentation be 100% removed? Not all pigmentation can be removed completely – certain superficial ones can be completely removed, but others, such as melasma or other dermal pigmentation usually gets reduced by 70-90%.
Can pigmentation reoccur after laser procedures? Indeed, it may. Despite successful laser treatments in addressing skin pigmentation, variables such as exposure to the sun, changes in hormones, and skincare practices can lead to its resurgence.
The length of time it takes for PIH to fade depends on how dark the spot is compared to the surrounding skin. The bigger the contrast between the dark area and your natural skin tone, the longer it will take to fade. PIH doesn't always fade away on its own. In some cases, it's more or less permanent.
Postinflammatory pigmentation is also called acquired melanosis. More severe injury results in postinflammatory hypopigmentation, which is usually permanent.
The three main types include age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory trauma. Post-inflammatory trauma can result from an injury, sun exposure, or a skin condition, such as acne.
This can mean stopping any medicine that's causing the problem or treating diabetes and other health conditions. Losing weight will help acanthosis nigricans fade. If you're concerned about your weight, talk to your doctor before going on a diet. Doctors may prescribe creams or lotions that can help lighten the skin.
Ask a Dermatologist About High-Tech Options
“I treat hyperpigmentation regularly using a combined approach of topical treatments and procedures,” Dr. Vashi says. “Procedures include chemical peels with alpha and beta hydroxy acids, microneedling, and certain types of lasers.”
According to Dr. Eric Howell, to fade hyperpigmentation fast, your dermatologist can prescribe a triple combination cream consisting of hydroquinone, tretinoin and a topical corticosteroid sold under the brand name Tri-Luma, or can be also purchased via a compounding pharmacy.
Retinol benefits the skin in many ways – by stimulating cell turnover, renewing the skin, reducing sebum production and has even been proven to lighten some forms of pigmentation over time. This has resulted in retinol being increasingly touted as a solution for many skin conditions including hyperpigmentation.
Yes. Several different lasers and settings are available for safe and effective hyperpigmentation treatment on various skin types and tones. Pre- and post-treatment topical products can help reduce risks and side effects.
As sun exposure worsens hyperpigmentation it is important to protect the skin with sunscreen on a daily basis. Treatment often begins with a skin care regimen composed of a daily sunscreen, moisturizers, and skin care brighteners.
Topical therapy is the recommended first-line treatment, with the gold standard being hydroquinone, which can be used alone or in combination with other agents.
Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin. Vitamin B12 also promotes collagen formation while supporting the growth of new skin cells.
The CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum has multiple benefits that address various skin concerns. A few key benefits you may note when using the retinol serum daily: Helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and post-blemish dark spots. Promotes the cell renewal process, helping skin look brighter.
The choice should come down to what you're looking to do for your skin. While vitamin C is most notable for helping to brighten and improve hyperpigmentation, retinol is typically considered best-in-class for wrinkles and fine lines.