4 Types of Hyperpigmentation

As aggravating as hyperpigmentation can be, understanding why it’s happening and how you can stop it (yes, it can be done) is rule number-one on the path to clear, even skin. The experts at NaturalOrganicBody researched all the types of hyper pigmentation and found what works to stop it. Everything from Skin Care, Cosmetics to Hair Products.

1. Melasma
Color: Light to medium brown
Where It Occurs: On the cheeks, sides of the face, upper part of the nose, forehead and above the lip
What It Looks Like: Splotchy patches that are inconsistent in shape and size
Caused By: A surge in hormones usually from pregnancy or birth control coupled with sun exposure
Treat It With: Hydroquinone and Retin-A; salicylic, lactic or glycolic acid peels; Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) plus vitamin C; or Cosmelan. (Melasma is hard to treat because of its potential to recur.)

2. Sunspots (aka Age or Liver Spots)
Color: Light to dark brown
Where It Occurs: On the face, chest and hands
What It Looks Like: Small, flat, dark spots
Caused By: The sun
Treat It With: Retinol + IPL; Fractional laser resurfacing

3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Color: Pink, red or brown
Where It Occurs: Anywhere on the face
What It Looks Like: Flat spots
Caused By: Inflammatory acne
Treat It With: Light salicylic acid wipes or chemical peels red and blue light (if there is active acne)

4. Freckles
Color: Light to dark brown or even red or black
Where It Occurs: On the face, chest and arms
What It Looks Like: Concentrated small spots
Caused By: The sun
Treat It With: Fraxel, Nd: YAG laser