Hyperpigmentation is a tell-tale sign of an untimely acne breakout or unhealthy sun exposure. 

Waiting for dark spots or hyperpigmentation to fade after popping zits is futile because they are stubborn. When dealing with hyperpigmentation, it’s easy to fall into the rabbit hole of do-it-yourself fixes and miracle cures. 

In the process, you may use too many products at the same time. But have you ever wondered what will happen if one ingredient counteracts another? 

Well, your Skin barrier will also get damaged, especially if you’re using too many actives to target acne and dark spots, further worsening the situation. 

While achieving blemish-free skin may appear challenging, it isn’t impossible. The trick lies in finding the right treatment that targets the underlying cause of dark spots. Once you figure it out, getting rid of dark spots will become easy. 

With that said, here’s a complete guide on hyperpigmentation, where we’ll discuss its causes and treatments. Shall we dive in, then?

Hyperpigmentation or Dark Spots: What Are They?

Contrary to popular belief, hyperpigmentation isn’t a medical condition but a term used for describing darkened spots or patches. In simple terms, any patch of skin that appears darker than the natural or the surrounding skin tone is known as hyperpigmentation. 

Hyperpigmentation usually appears in small areas, but in some cases, it can affect the entire body or appear in large patches. Although it isn’t harmful, severe hyperpigmentation may indicate that a person is suffering from a medical condition. 

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

The following factors may cause hyperpigmentation: 

1. Excessive Melanin Production

Most commonly, excessive production of melanin is attributed to hyperpigmentation. A black or brown pigment that gives color to the skin is known as melanin, which is produced by melanocytes. Both internal and external factors, along with several medical conditions, may affect melanin production. 

2. Endocrine Disease

Addison’s Disease, a rare endocrine disease, can result in hyperpigmentation on the hands, neck, face, knees, and elbows. Hence, any individual who has started developing darkened patches on their skin may be suffering from Addison’s Disease, as hyperpigmentation is one of its initial symptoms. 

3. Skin Inflammation

Skin inflammation resulting from lupus, acne, burns, cuts, or injury can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This chronic condition is common among Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI. 

4. Drug-Induced Skin Pigmentation

Did you know that several drugs can contribute to hyperpigmentation? Tetracyclines, cytotoxic drugs, antipsychotic drugs, amiodarone, antimalarials, phenytoin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are said to induce hyperpigmentation. 

Treatment of Hyperpigmentation

While it’s considered harmless, many people prefer to get rid of hyperpigmentation. From DIY remedies to cosmetic procedures, there are numerous ways to treat hyperpigmentation. However, not every treatment is suitable for all skin types. 

Mild to moderate hyperpigmentation can be treated by using topical treatments, whereas cosmetic procedures will be suitable for severe hyperpigmentation. That said, let’s check out a few ways that will fade dark patches from your skin. 

1. Use a Niacinamide Serum

Following a 10-step skincare routine to get rid of hyperpigmentation but to no avail? Well, a Serum containing niacinamide is all you need to bid farewell to dark spots and patches. 

Also known as nicotinamide, this all-star ingredient is a form of Vitamin B3 that pulls double duty: targets both the cause of acne and the spots they leave behind. Dermatologists say that niacinamide fades and controls dark spots better when it is paired with licorice root and Vitamin C. 

In this regard, many skin care experts have found the Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot serum effective in fading discoloration. Brimming with niacinamide, Vitamin C, licorice root, and amber algae, this Smart Melanin technology dark spot serum is lightweight, which means it won’t clog pores. 

Because it is a fragrance-free serum, individuals with sensitive skin can give it a go without second thoughts. Best of all, it’s formulated keeping in mind all skin tones, so everyone can use it. 

You’ll be pleased to know that the serum is free from hydroquinone and bleaching agents, so it’s safe for use. 

2. Look for a Brightening Serum to Tackle Age-Related Spots

Individuals who want to brighten their complexion alongside fading dark spots or discoloration must use a brightening serum instead of a dark spot serum. As a skincare junkie, you must know what is brightening serum. But newbies, understandably, won’t know much about it. 

Skin brightening serums are products formulated with ingredients that target dullness and hyperpigmentation. Using them regularly brightens uneven skin tone, making your skin more radiant than before. 

Sensitive skin beauties may experience redness or irritation after applying brightening serums. Hence, we’d recommend doing a patch test before incorporating them into your routine. 

3. Exfoliating Treatments

Exfoliating treatments like chemical peels fade hyperpigmentation by removing dead cells from the topmost layer of the skin, adding a healthy glow to your face. Besides reducing the appearance of dark spots, such treatments enhance cell turnover and stimulate the production of collagen. 

However, keep in mind that chemical peels can burn the skin, which is why getting them done by a dermatologist will be wise. 

4. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

Sure, serums fade dark spots, but we cannot emphasize the importance of sunscreen in fading dark spots enough. Wearing sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF prevents hyperpigmentation and dark spots from darkening further, so add it to your skincare arsenal without delay.  

The Bottom Line

To sum it up, hyperpigmentation is common among individuals of all ages. However, people of color are more susceptible to skin discoloration and dark spots than white people. 

From popping a pimple to several health conditions, hyperpigmentation is caused due to various reasons which are unknown to us. Adding dark spot serums and brightening serums will certainly prove helpful in fading dark spots. However, to be on the safe side, you must always consult a dermatologist.