What do dermatologists prescribe for hyperpigmentation?

Author: Prof. Brian O'Keefe  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 3, 2022

HYDROQUINONE
Hydroquinone is the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation in dermatology. Its effectiveness and safety is so well-documented in clinical studies that almost all dermatology providers will recommend 4% hydroquinone as a first step for anyone with significant pigment concerns.

What do dermatologist use for hyperpigmentation?

Dermatologists consider prescription-strength hydroquinone, alone or combined with other lighteners, to be the gold standard for fading dark spots because it slows the production of pigment.

Are there prescriptions for hyperpigmentation?

L-cysteamine is a topical antioxidant that effectively evens hyperpigmentation. You can get it from some doctors' offices or online by prescription. Tranexamic acid can be taken as a pill or applied as a topical to improve melasma. It's an option for people who don't see improvement with other forms of therapy.

What is the fastest way to get rid of hyperpigmentation?

In this case, turning to dermatological procedures will work as the fastest way to get rid of hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or dermabrasion are all options that work similarly to rid skin of hyperpigmentation.

What do dermatologists prescribe for dark spots?

Doctors usually prescribe a 4% hydroquinone cream, and a 2% version is available over the counter. "Hydroquinone can be irritating and can actually increase pigmentation if used for too long, so I have patients take a 'holiday' every 3 months and use other lightening agents," Tanzi says.

Dermatologist Explains: Hyperpigmentation and Melasma - How to Manage it with Top Picks

Can a dermatologist remove dark spots?

Dermatologists sometimes recommend laser treatment for age spots. Laser resurfacing uses the power of light energy to reduce the appearance of dark spots. Dark skin cells absorb the light energy pulses emitted by the laser head. Once inside, the energy from the laser kills the dark skin cell.

Does Retinol fade dark spots?

Retinol can be effective in lightening the skin and reducing the appearance of dark spots. It does so by promoting skin shedding, which improves cell turnover rate and hinders the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, which encourages the production of melanin.

Does hydrocortisone cream help hyperpigmentation?

Hydrocortisone is a popular corticosteroid that is often used to reduce the dark pigmentation of age spots and prevent further irritation in the future.

Why won't my hyperpigmentation go away?

Some cases of hyperpigmentation may never go away completely. If hyperpigmentation is caused by injury, then as the skin heals the discoloration will lessen as melanin is absorbed into the tissue surrounding the injury.

Which serum is best for hyperpigmentation?

13 Best Serums For Pigmentation Available In India
  1. Recast Vitamin C Serum. ...
  2. The Moms Co. ...
  3. The Derma Co 1% Collagen Daily Face Serum-Cream. ...
  4. Newish Skincare Vitamin C Serum. ...
  5. The Yogi Vitamin C Face Serum. ...
  6. Aspiiro Natural Vitamin C Serum. ...
  7. Dolence Clover Retinol Serum. ...
  8. Pilgrim Vitamin C Serum.

Should I go to a dermatologist for hyperpigmentation?

Your dermatologist can help you identify the cause of your hyperpigmentation and work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan. No matter what treatment you ultimately choose, it's important to protect your skin from further sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

Is there a pill for melasma?

Conclusion: Oral TXA is a safe and efficacious treatment for refractory melasma. It should be considered in cases that are unresponsive to topical hydroquinone and combination topical therapy over a period of approximately 12 weeks and without contraindications to oral TXA.

Can hyperpigmentation be permanent?

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.

What is prescription strength hydroquinone?

Most prescription-strength hydroquinone formulations contain 3–4%, but concentrations as high as 10% may be available through compounding pharmacies. When prescribed by a physician, it is often combined with other actives, such as tretinoin, retinol, vitamin C or glycolic acid.

How can I remove pigmentation permanently?

How to Remove Pigmentation from face permanently– What are My Options?
  1. Chemical Peels for pigmentation treatment. These are treatments that to help remove the outermost layer of the skin. ...
  2. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to reduce pigmentation. ...
  3. Pigmentations Laser. ...
  4. Sunscreen and Sun Protection Measures.

How do I know if my hyperpigmentation is permanent?

Hyperpigmentation acne may fade over time, but if the original spots were deep, it may be permanent. Although some topical and surgical therapies can speed up the fading process, it can take several months to years.

Does Accutane help with hyperpigmentation?

Isotretinoin does not clear hyperpigmentation from acne. Pores. Isotretinoin will reduce pores while you are on treatment as it shrinks sebaceous glands, but the pores will return to their normal size within a few months of stopping Isotretinoin.

Is vitamin C serum good for pigmentation?

It helps fade hyperpigmentation

Since it impedes melanin production, vitamin C can actually fade hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation — including sunspots, age spots, and melasma — occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain areas of the skin. It can also happen in areas where acne has healed.

Is hydroquinone good for hyperpigmentation?

“Hydroquinone has been in use for years for treating various types of skin hyperpigmentation. When used appropriately it can be a safe and effective topical agent for treating hyperpigmentation,” Dr. Charles says.

Does hydroquinone permanently lighten skin?

Does hydroquinone lighten skin permanently? No, the results of any skin lightening that hydroquinone brings about are not permanent. The effects can be seen within a couple of months or a few years at the maximum.

Is prescription retinol better?

Prescription retinoids are stronger and may be more effective than their OTC counterparts at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This means they're also more likely to cause side effects.

Is tretinoin better than retinol?

Tretinoin is a more potent retinoid than retinol and will show results faster. While these active ingredients both combat signs of photoaging (aka wrinkles, rough skin, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores), tretinoin-based products like Night Shift are more effective for fighting acne.

Can Retin-A make hyperpigmentation worse?

“If the retinol you're using is too strong for your skin causing inflammation, darker skin tones may have a higher risk of discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, from the use of it," she adds. Dr.

Can dermatologist lighten skin?

While bleaching creams can be used safely under the direction of a board-certified dermatologist to treat pigmentary conditions like melasma, dermatologists are concerned about the use of these products to change the color of one's complexion.

Previous article
What are the most popular beauty treatments 2022?
Next article
How do you get rid of acne scars?