Using an over-the-counter solution to treat hyperpigmentation will only get you so far, and sometimes you need professional intervention to see real results.
Topical products containing vitamin A or retinol may help you improve skin tone and rejuvenate the appearance of hyperpigmented skin. Alpha hydroxy acids, an acid that helps the skin shed dead skin cells, are also helpful. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and avoid sun exposure if you're outdoors for a long period of time. Try to avoid picking at the discolored skin patch, which can cause it to bleed or develop deeper pigmentation spots.
Topical treatments aren't the only way to treat hyperpigmentation. Various compounds are being tested for their effectiveness as treatment for hyperpigmentation. Many of these compounds show promising results during the initial stages of clinical trials. Further research and development of these agents is needed to better understand whether they will improve the condition of individuals with hyperpigmentation. The following treatments can help you get rid of the unwanted brown spots on your skin.
Chemical peels remove damaged skin and promote regeneration of new skin cells. However, these peels have the risk of inflammation, scarring, and changes in skin color. Laser treatments for hyperpigmentation are a great option for those with hyperpigmentation, but safety is still questionable. Some people may not be comfortable with laser therapy and may experience side effects or complications. Aside from the potential risks of the laser, patients have reported good results with this treatment.
Topical kojic acid is a natural ingredient derived from mushrooms and fermented rice. It works by suppressing the enzyme responsible for the production of melanin. It is a great treatment for hyperpigmentation, but it can be expensive, taking several months to see full results. A topical treatment for hyperpigmentation may even cause irritation or inflammation in sensitive skin. So, be sure to talk to your dermatologist about your options before applying a topical cream or lotion.
Another popular treatment for hyperpigmentation is metformin. This drug, which is used for diabetes, is also a strong antioxidant that inhibits the production of melanin. It was also recently evaluated for use on melasma patients. Studies conducted in rats and mice demonstrated that metformin was an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. Its anti-inflammatory effect was also demonstrated in a placebo-controlled study.
Using tristimulus colorimetry is the most common way to evaluate the efficacy of different treatments for pigmentation disorders. A tristimulus colorimetry (HASI) consists of three primary parameters: L, b, and a. In addition to the color brightness, the a parameter expresses changes from yellow to green or blue skin. When these parameters are computed, the results will be compared to a standard.
