Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a darker color change in the skin that contrasts with the normal skin color. The formation of pigmentation is caused by melanin in the skin, the overproduction or local accumulation of which causes a darker pigment to appear locally on the skin.
Overproduction of melanocytes is activated by factors such as exposure to UV radiation, inflammation or skin damage (e.g. acne), certain drugs and diseases, and endocrine disruption. Hereditary factors also influence the susceptibility to hyperpigmentation.
Three signs of hyperpigmentation
Sun damage: The skin develops darker patches or areas (freckles, age spots, melasma).
Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation: A darker (PIH, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or red (PIE, post inflammatory erythema) mark left on the skin after the skin lesion has healed, e.g. a pimple.
Hormonal: During pregnancy or when using birth control pills, the skin is more prone to developing hyperpigmentation. A typical hormonal area for pigmentation is the upper lip (“moustache”). Hormonal hyperpigmentation may also fade on its own, for example, after pregnancy, but it may also persist longer, especially if left untreated.
Hyperpigmentation is strongly influenced by the sun and exposure to UV radiation. Failure to protect the skin and neglect of sunscreen will cause hyperpigmentation over time. Hyperpigmentation is easier to prevent than to treat, so we recommend a sufficiently high level of sun protection (SPF 50) for daily use.
It is also important not to squeeze out impurities, as inflammation can worsen and more pigmentation can build up on the skin. Darker skin tones/phototypes are more prone to hyperpigmentation (e.g. PIH), while lighter skin tones are more vulnerable to sun damage.
There are several effective at-home treatment methods for pigmentation issues, such as ZO Skin Health and AlumierMD medical-grade retinol and other targeted products, as well as vitamin C.
With a good, quality skin care routine, we are able to prevent the formation of pigmentation when the skin is resistant and intact (e.g., treating away inflammation). Our skin care focuses on both preventing new pigment and breaking down existing pigment.
Preventing hyperpigmentation is always easier than treating the condition itself. So it’s worth paying attention to your skincare routine even before the actual problems develop. To prevent and treat hyperpigmentation it is important to use a broad spectrum UV protection, all year round we recommend at least SPF 30, preferably SPF 50. Reapplication of sunscreen throughout the day (every 2 hours) is recommended. Physically protecting the skin from the sun and staying in the shade during the sunny season is a good way to prevent hyperpigmentation and sun-induced ageing changes.
Klinik Linnea recommends
To prevent hyperpigmentation, we recommend using broad-spectrum UV protection daily. For treating existing pigmentation, we recommend high-quality ZO Skin Health or AlumierMD products for daily use. The most effective clinic treatments for pigmentation include Lumecca IPL, Hollywood Spectra laser treatments, Dermapen4 and Skinpen microneedling, pHformula’s MELA peel, and Cellbooster Glow mesotherapy. These various treatments offer versatile options for effectively managing pigmentation issues, and our professionals will assist in choosing the right treatment method for you based on your individual needs.
