Human skin colors vary greatly around the world, ranging from very fair skinned to very dark. There are several conditions associated with skin pigmentation across this spectral range of skin tones, resulting in problems varying from hypopigmentation to hyperpigmentation. Skin hyperpigmentation happens when melanin, a pigment responsible for skin color, is overproduced in specific areas of the skin. It is critical to have a thorough understanding of the causes of this condition as well as the management strategies.
- What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a familiar disease in which some areas of the skin are darker than others. The words ‘hyper’ and ‘pigment’ mean more and color, respectively.
- Causes of Hyperpigmentation
There are several factors like internal factors, external factors or nutritional factors which are responsible for hyperpigmentation.
- External Factors – These type of factors include –
- Sun exposure (these spots are also known as solar lentigines).
- Hyperpigmentation caused by an inflammatory process (due to injury to the skin like cuts, acne, or burns).
- Internal Factors – These have an endogenous origin or source. These could be caused by adrenal disorders such as Addison’s disease (a condition in which the body does not produce enough cortisol), genetics (for instance, freckles), hormone imbalances during pregnancy or puberty, medications such as oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and medications that cause light sensitivity, or thyroid disorders.
Some other factors are –
- Acanthosis nigricans- A skin condition characterized by dark skin pigment in body folds and creases.
- Acromegaly-is a hormonal disorder caused by excessive pituitary hormone secretion.
- Carcinoid- A cancer that grows slowly and spreads throughout the body.
- Nutritional Factors – This is due to vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, folic acid, niacin, tryptophan deficiency, and kwashiorkor (a kind of malnutrition due to protein deficiency in the diet).
- Symptoms of Hyperpigmentation
The following are examples of hyperpigmentation and their symptoms:
Sun-induced hyperpigmentation: These are tiny, darkened spots that are commonly seen on the face, hands, and other sun-exposed areas. It can be a major reason for hyperpigmentation on the face.
Melasma: Similar to age spots, these are wider areas of darkened skin caused by hormonal changes.
Freckles: They are small, brown patches that can appear anywhere on the body. These spots, on the other hand, are prevalent on the face and arms. When exposed to sunlight, freckles, age spots, and other dark skin spots can darken.
- Homemade Treatments for Hyperpigmentation
Homemade hyperpigmentation treatments can help lighten the appearance of dark skin spots. Among the remedies are:
This plant’s gel is used to treat a variety of skin conditions. It is used to treat skin hyperpigmentation. Aloesin, the active ingredient in Aloe Vera, has the ability to prevent melanin excess and skin hyperpigmentation. To get the benefits, apply Aloe Vera gel to the affected area directly. Aloe Vera gel can also be used in homemade face masks. It is very effective for facial hyperpigmentation.
It is famous for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Green tea has skin lightening properties and is also useful in the treatment of hyperpigmentation lesions. Green tea was also found to be beneficial in treating skin rashes caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation in one study. To use green tea on your skin, make a green tea face mask or include it in your homemade mask recipes. It is one of the best treatments for hyperpigmentation on the face.
- Soy
This remedy works well for skin lightening. Soybean can help with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne. It is also impactful in photodamage (skin changes caused by UV radiation), facial hypermelanosis (changed facial skin coloration), and melasma. You can get the necessary benefits by including soy in your diet. Soy milk is an excellent choice. It can be considered as an effective skin whitening home remedy.
This home remedy can help with hyperpigmentation. You can create a turmeric face mask to use on your skin. You can make a face mask by combining small quantities of honey, turmeric, and Greek yogurt and applying it to your face. You can leave the mask on for 15 minutes before removing it with water. Turmeric is very useful for facial hyperpigmentation.
- Pomegranate
Pomegranate is beneficial in the treatment of hyperpigmentation. Pomegranate can be used as an exfoliating mask by crushing a few seeds. Massage gently because it may irritate the skin. Pomegranate skin oil can also be used. Apply the oil after cleaning up and toning your face but before applying moisturizer. It is a very popular hyperpigmentation treatment.
- Rice Water
This is an essential ingredient in many Asian skin and hair therapies. Rice water gel and cream formulas have skin lightening properties. Rice water is an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. Rice water can be utilized in a variety of ways.
- Massage rice water into your skin and then wash it with water.
- You can also use a thick sheet of tissue paper as a sheet mask after soaking it in rice water.
- Take a small amount of rice water to a cotton pad and use it as a toner on your face and neck.
This process can help to reduce the black patches on the face.
- Grape Seed Oil
Grape seed oil is high in vitamin C and E, both of which are powerful antioxidants. The antioxidant benefits can help with hyperpigmentation. You can use grape seed oil in a variety of ways.
- Apply sheer grape seed oil to your face as a serum before going to sleep.
- To reap the benefits, blend a few drops of seed oil into your moisturizer or cream.
- Combine grape seed oil with another essential oil, such as lavender. With grape seed oil, use no more than a few drops of essential oil.
This is a very useful treatment for hyperpigmentation on the face.
Conclusion
The skin occasionally produces too much melanin, resulting in dark spots or patches that differentiate with the surrounding skin. Hyperpigmentation is a prevalent condition that can cause embarrassment. Hyperpigmentation can be caused by both external and internal factors. Some home remedies can help to cure such hyperpigmentation. However, if you observe red, itchy, or painful skin, skin that feels hot when touched, or bleeding or pus release from the hyperpigmented skin, you should see a doctor.