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Hyperpigmentation is a dermatologic condition in which specific areas of the skin appear darker than the others. It occurs due to the excessive production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. When melanin is produced in excess, brown, black, gray, red, or pink colored patches appear on the skin. These patches do not cause pain or itching but can make people self-conscious. However, lifestyle modifications and treatments, including sun protection and skin care, can significantly help.

Hyperpigmentation usually occurs when different conditions or factors alter melanin production in the body. These melanin clumps make the area appear dark. The following conditions cause variation in the melanin levels:

• Addison's disease (adrenal gland disorder).
• Hormonal changes during puberty and pregnancy.
• Skin injuries, including acne, cuts, and burns.
• Oral contraceptive pills.
• Melasma.
• Vitamin deficiency.
• Thyroid diseases.
• Sun damage.

Hyperpigmentation does not produce any peculiar symptoms, unlike other medical conditions, but darkened areas on the skin characterize it. The patches vary in size and can develop anywhere on the body. Due to sun overexposure, you might see single or multiple brown, tan, and black spots on the skin.

You should not be worried about hyperpigmentation because it is typically harmless. People might remove or reduce it depending upon their choice. To cure hyperpigmentation quickly, the patient can opt for dermatologic procedures like chemical peel, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion. Some simple treatments that help heal hyperpigmentation include avoiding sun exposure, topical creams, and home remedies. However, if other symptoms accompany hyperpigmentation, the patient must immediately consult his doctor.

You can avail certain prescription drugs for hyperpigmentation via iCliniq First. However, please note that we only prescribe specific drugs, and only for eligible patients. For more information on available drug options or your eligibility for them, consult a doctor at iCliniq First.

Many over-the-counter medications may be available to you, and while some may work, others may not. Look for lightening creams, which are readily available over-the-counter and help reduce skin pigmentation. These creams are usually applied once or twice a day to lighten the skin over time. However, do not use every product you come across because many will do nothing to help. Consider consulting a doctor for prescription medications that better work for your condition than over-the-counter products.

The treatment of hyperpigmentation varies according to its severity and the causes. However, the following treatment options help manage hyperpigmentation:

• Lightening creams.
• Face acids.
• Retinoids.
• Chemical peel.
• Laser peel or skin resurfacing.
• Intense pulse light therapy.
• Microdermabrasion.
• Dermabrasion.

A chemical peel is a dermatologic procedure done to treat hyperpigmentation. A chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove its superficial layers so that the skin that grows back is smooth. Before the procedure: A chemical peel is usually done in the doctor's office. Before the procedure, the doctor cleans the patient's face, protects his hair, and covers his eyes with ointment, tape, or goggles. You might receive a pain killer and a sedative if you are undergoing a medium skin peel procedure. For a deep peel, the doctor might numb the area. After the procedure: The skin appears red, tight, swollen and irritated, but these effects do not become noticeable after subsequent treatments. The doctor will provide instructions on skin protection, cleaning, moisturizing, and applying ointment to the skin. Avoid rubbing or scratching your skin for a few days after the procedure.

Though hyperpigmentation is harmless, you can get rid of it in the following ways:

• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
• Use sunscreen.
• Take vitamins.

The doctor might recommend taking the following:

• Azelaic acid.
• Corticosteroids.
• Glycolic acid.
• Hydroquinone.
• Salicyclic acid.
• Skin bleach.
• Cryotherapy.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces extra melanin after skin injury or irritation. It can affect the superficial and deep layers of the skin. As a result, the skin appears tan and dark brown and shows the presence of multiple blue-gray patches. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can affect people of all age groups, but it is commonly seen in those with dark skin. Identifying the source of inflammation is essential to allow the skin to heal.

Hyperpigmentation is a non-cancerous condition and can affect any part of the face, including the lips and the mouth. The lips appear dark with the presence of brown or black macules in people suffering from hypertension. Hyperpigmentation in the lips mainly occurs due to sun overexposure. Laser treatments and chemicals including Hydroquinone and Kojic acid can be used to manage lip hyperpigmentation.