Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist. Hyperpigmentation is a general term that describes different types of skin discoloration.
Hyperpigmentation refers to skin that darkens in comparison to its natural color. These patches of discoloration can develop anywhere on the skin, but are most often seen on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, chest, tops of the arms and hands, and shins.
It depends on the cause. If a medical condition is causing the skin discoloration, treating the underlying issue may fix the skin discoloration. If the skin problems or moles are cancerous, you'll need surgery to remove areas of your skin or begin radiation therapy or other cancer treatment.
Human skin color ranges from the darkest brown to the lightest hues. Differences in skin color among individuals is caused by variation in pigmentation, which is the result of genetics (inherited from one's biological parents), exposure to the sun, disorders, or some combination thereof.
Call your health care provider for an appointment if you have: Skin discoloration that causes significant concern. Persistent, unexplained darkening or lightening of the skin. Any skin sore or lesion that changes shape, size, or color may be a sign of skin cancer.
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.
For many individuals trying to cope with persistent pigmentation issues, it can feel hopeless. However, there's a silver lining: dark spots, uneven skin tone, melasma, and other forms of hyperpigmentation are not permanent. They can be effectively treated.
Patches of discolored skin are noticeable because they differ from a person's normal skin tone. They may be lighter, darker, or a different color, such as red, gray, or blue. It is important that people with this symptom understand the cause of their discolored skin patches in case treatment is necessary.
Another way to treat vaginal darkening is to use topical skin lightening creams. These creams typically contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, glycolic acid, or kojic acid, which can help to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark patches.
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.
Vitiligo is a chronic (long-lasting) autoimmune disorder that causes patches of skin to lose pigment or color. This happens when melanocytes – skin cells that make pigment – are attacked and destroyed, causing the skin to turn a milky-white color.
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.
Vitamins can be used to lighten your skin and lighten dark spots. 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.
It works by breaking down the excess melanin in the age spots and gradually reducing their appearance. So, when used properly and in appropriate concentrations, hydrogen peroxide can be an effective and affordable option to remove age spots on the face.
Is skin discoloration reversible? The reversibility of skin discoloration depends on the cause. Dermatologists can recommend treatments such as topical creams, laser therapy, or chemical peels based on the specific condition.
Overview. Vitiligo (vit-ih-LIE-go) is a disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. The discolored areas usually get bigger with time. The condition can affect the skin on any part of the body.