Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of certain areas of the skin due to an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye colour.
Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of certain areas of the skin due to an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye colour.
Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of certain areas of the skin due to an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye colour. It is a common skin concern that can be triggered by various factors. While it is generally harmless, hyperpigmentation can impact one’s self-esteem and confidence. Chemical peels are a popular treatment option to address hyperpigmentation and restore a more even skin tone.
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by several factors, including:
Sun Exposure: Prolonged and unprotected exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can lead to sunspots or age spots, which are darker patches of skin.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, and the use of certain medications can trigger conditions like melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Inflammation and Injury: Skin injuries, acne, and other inflammatory conditions can cause an overproduction of melanin in the affected area.
Genetics: Some individuals are more predisposed to developing hyperpigmentation due to their genetic makeup.
Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can lead to hyperpigmentation as a result of chronic inflammation.
Hyperpigmentation can manifest in various forms, including:
Melasma: A common form of hyperpigmentation characterised by brown or gray-brown patches, often occurring on the face, cheeks, and forehead.
Sunspots (Solar Lentigines): Dark spots that appear as a result of sun exposure, commonly found on areas exposed to sunlight, such as the face, hands, and shoulders.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots that develop after skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, cuts, or burns.
Freckles: Small, flat spots that are typically genetically determined and become more pronounced with sun exposure.
Chemical peels are a dermatological procedure used to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, promoting cell turnover and revealing a fresher, more even complexion. They can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation by targeting the top layers of pigmented skin cells. There are different types of chemical peels, including:
Superficial Peels: These peels use mild acids like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to gently exfoliate the skin’s surface. They are suitable for mild cases of hyperpigmentation and require minimal downtime.
Medium Peels: These peels penetrate deeper into the skin and use stronger acids, such as glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA), to treat moderate hyperpigmentation. They may require a few days of recovery.
Deep Peels: Utilising stronger acids, deep peels are reserved for severe cases of hyperpigmentation. They provide more dramatic results but involve longer downtime and require careful post-treatment care.
Our medical director, Úna has an extensive medical knowledge combined with an ongoing curiosity to learn about the latest trends. Úna is known for her warm and personal approach. Dermal Health is quickly becoming London’s number-one aesthetic clinic.
