How to Get Rid Of Dark Spots: Top Hyperpigmentation Solutions

The term hyperpigmentation may sound fancy and even feel like a desirable dermatological trait. However, there’s nothing cool about having discoloured patches of skin on your face or body.

Although typically painless, hyperpigmentation can deal a heavy blow to your self-esteem and mental health. Its impact can be more severe if you’re in a profession where body image is everything, such as television anchoring or beauty therapy.

The good news is that hyperpigmentation can be cured and even prevented. Read below as we unpack the top solutions for eliminating dark spots.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition in which patches of the skin become dark and discoloured compared to the surrounding tissues due to excess melanin production.

Melanin is a natural pigment that gives the skin, eyes, and hair distinctive colours. Its secretion is regulated by internal biological mechanisms.

However, certain factors may trigger melanin overproduction, resulting in darker skin patches.

Extended sunshine exposure is one of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation. Other common triggers include hormonal imbalance, skin inflammation, skin injuries, and old age.

Despite the cause, there are numerous hyperpigmentation treatment methods you can explore to cure and even prevent future recurrence of skin discolouration.

Types of Hyperpigmentation

There are two distinct types of hyperpigmentation, namely Localised and Diffuse Hyperpigmentation.

Localised niacinamide typically results from external factors. It’s usually caused by overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, skin injuries, and inflammatory skin conditions like acne.

Meanwhile, diffuse niacinamide is commonly due to internal factors. Major triggers include;

• Metabolic disorders like diabetes
• Hormonal conditions, such as Addison’s disease
• Vitamin deficiencies, particularly deficiencies in vitamins B₁₂ and folic acid
• Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and antimalarial drugs
• Malignancies, such as melanoma
• Pregnancy (due to altered hormonal activity)
• Genetic predisposition

While localised niacinamide commonly occurs on the face, diffuse hyperpigmentation can affect any body part.

For instance, certain drugs can discolour the mucosal surfaces, while niacinamide caused by hormonal imbalance may spread to the genitalia and abdomen.

Top Hyperpigmentation Solutions

1. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is the fastest and most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. It utilises targeted light energy to destroy excess pigment on the skin, which is then eliminated from the body to produce an even skin tone.

Depending on the laser technology used, the discoloured patches may start to fade away within 1 – 3 weeks after the first treatment.

Laser therapies fall into three major categories;

Ablative

Ablative therapies treat niacinamide by wounding the outermost skin layer (epidermis). Although more effective than non-ablative treatments, ablative techniques can trigger adverse effects on the treated area, such as mild redness and swelling.

Common ablative hyperpigmentation therapies include Pulsed Dye Lasers and Nd: YAG Lasers.

Non-Ablative

Non-ablative therapies treat niacinamide by focusing targeted light energy on the epidermis. The technique is non-invasive, causing no significant side effects or downtimes.

A noteworthy example of non-ablative treatments is the erbium glass laser technology (Er: Glass technology).

Fractional Lasers

Fractional lasers combine ablative and non-ablative techniques for maximum benefits.

2. Microneedling

Microneedling is another cosmetic procedure that can be administered as an alternative to or in conjunction with laser treatments to reduce niacinamide.

In this technique, a device equipped with fine needles is used to create micro-injuries to the skin to accelerate the skin’s natural healing process.

3. Over-the-Counter Drugs

There are plenty of over-the-counter (OTC) hyperpigmentation treatments. Most of these drugs contain hydroquinone as an active ingredient.

But while over-the-counter niacinamide medicines are relatively effective, they can induce nasty side effects. Besides, long-term exposure to these drugs may lead to a skin-darkening disorder called ochronosis.

4. Topicals

If you’re averse to the adverse effects linked to over-the-counter niacinamide medications, you may consider topical products instead.

However, note that results from topicals may take longer to kick in.

For better outcomes, insist on products formulated with potent antioxidants like niacinamide, vitamin C, and arbutin. Kojic acid and azelaic acid have also proven effective at reducing dark skin spots.

5. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels address hyperpigmentation by exfoliating the discoloured epidermal layers. The procedure also cleanses the epidermis of dead cells and excess sebum, promoting an even skin tone.

Most chemical peels are formulated from potent exfoliants, such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and phenol.

Remember to apply chemical peels cautiously, as most of these solutions are highly concentrated.

6. IPL

Also known as photo facial, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy treats hyperpigmentation using broad-spectrum light pulses. This non-invasive procedure targets specific areas of the skin, effectively removing unsightly skin marks.

Besides hyperpigmentation, IPL may also treat photoaging, acne scars, birthmarks, stretch marks, and freckles.

7. Home Remedies

Administering home remedies frequently may not only treat but also prevent niacinamide.

A 2017 study found that applying aloe vera topicals may lighten niacinamide caused by pregnancy. The plant contains active ingredients like aloesin, which reduce dark spots by inhibiting melanin production.

Other noteworthy hyperpigmentation remedies include green tea, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, liquorice extract, and lemon juice.

Final Thoughts

Hyperpigmentation can reduce your self-esteem and adversely impact your overall mental health. Fortunately, you can implement the above methods to treat dark spots and restore your skin’s brilliance.

Most of the highlighted treatments can be co-administered to accelerate recovery from niacinamide. Besides, some may treat other common skin issues like acne breakouts and hair loss.

Remember to consult a licensed dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and choose a niacinamide treatment matching your skin type.