Does hyperpigmentation go away after losing weight?

Author: Darby Feeney  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 17, 2025

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. But most of the time, acanthosis nigricans doesn't need treatment.

Can being overweight cause hyperpigmentation?

Most patients who have the more limited and slower-onset facial acanthosis nigricans are obese and have hyperinsulinemia; the hyperpigmentation usually develops over the temples3 and forehead.

Can diet reverse hyperpigmentation?

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel help lower melanin production (caused by sun exposure) and tackle sun-induced hyperpigmentation. Carrots are one of the powerful foods that help reduce hyperpigmentation.

How long does it take for body hyperpigmentation to go away?

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade? Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years.

Can you reverse pigmentation loss?

Hypopigmentation may improve or go away on its own. If a skin condition causes hypopigmentation, medications may help restore color to your skin. If you have a genetic condition, hypopigmentation may be permanent. Be sure to use sunscreen on your light patches of skin.

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Can hyperpigmentation become permanent?

Epidermal hypermelanosis will appear tan, brown, or dark brown and may take months to years to resolve without treatment. Hyperpigmentation within the dermis has a blue-gray appearance and may either be permanent or resolve over a protracted period of time if left untreated.

Does losing weight get rid of hyperpigmentation?

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.

What fades hyperpigmentation the fastest?

Three types of skincare treatments fade hyperpigmentation marks fast:
  • Physical exfoliants.
  • Chemical exfoliants.
  • Brightening actives such as vitamin C, kojic acid, liquorice extract.

Why is my hyperpigmentation not fading?

Reason #1: You're Getting Too Much Sun

“Hyperpigmentation can be incredibly frustrating and tough to treat. One of the easiest things you can do at home to help with hyperpigmentation is to be vigilant with sun protection,” says Dr. Camille Howard, a board-certified dermatologist and IT Cosmetics Advisory Board Member.

Can exercise reduce pigmentation?

Face yoga can reduce scars and spots too. It increases blood circulation that clears all pigmentation and scars and spots from the skin over time. It can also provide relief from sinus issues, by opening up nasal blockage. Mediation can also be anti-ageing although we generally do not see it that way.

Can fasting help hyperpigmentation?

This is because fasting has been shown to regulate hormonal imbalances, which can trigger hyperpigmentation. Additionally, when we fast, our body goes into a state of autophagy, breaking down damaged cells and regenerating new ones. This process can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation on our skin.

Why am I suddenly getting hyperpigmentation?

A number of factors can trigger an increase in melanin production, but the main ones are sun exposure, hormonal influences, age and skin injuries or inflammation. Sun exposure is the number one cause of hyperpigmentation as it's sunlight that triggers the production of melanin in the first place.

How long does it take to reverse acanthosis nigricans?

Higher than normal insulin levels in the blood stream cause the growth of darkened skin over certain areas of the body. No skin treatment will cure it, but acanthosis nigricans may lighten up and possibly disappear by treating the root cause, insulin resistance, but it can take months or years to do so.

Can weight loss cause skin problems?

After massive weight loss, redundant skin can cause complications, including recurrent rashes, infections, and frictional discomfort. Body contouring surgery is the main treatment for redundant skin, but because this surgery is considered cosmetic, the cost can be a barrier to entry.

What worsens hyperpigmentation?

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.

What permanently lightens hyperpigmentation?

CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the most effective non-surgical method to improve the appearance of your skin overall and hyperpigmentation specifically. It uses highly specialized lasers to remove dead and damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production.

How long does it take to reverse hyperpigmentation?

Some forms of hyperpigmentation, such as those caused by acne, may fade within a few months, while others, like melasma, can last for years or even be permanent if not properly treated.

Will my skin clear up if I lose weight?

Clearer Skin

Losing weight typically means healthier food choices. When you eat less fatty and greasy foods, you might notice clearer skin. While there isn't any hard science between skin breakouts and diet, many people report having acne breakouts after eating unhealthy foods.

Does drinking water help with hyperpigmentation?

Does Drinking Water Help Pigmentation? Research notes that increasing how much water you drink everyday can positively impact the skin's overall health and appearance. 5 This suggests, that in some cases, staying hydrated may help with some types of skin pigmentation.

Why hasn't my hyperpigmentation go away?

Factors Affecting Hyperpigmentation Fading Time

Severity of hyperpigmentation: The deeper and more widespread the pigmentation, the longer it may take to fade. Sun exposure: UV rays can exacerbate hyperpigmentation and slow the fading process. It's essential to always wear sunscreen when dealing with pigmented spots.

How to tell if hyperpigmentation is dermal or epidermal?

Epidermal: Epidermal melasma has a dark brown color, a well-defined border, appears obvious under black light and sometimes responds well to treatment. Dermal: Dermal melasma has a light brown or bluish color, a blurry border, appears no differently under black light and doesn't respond well to treatment.

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