Hyperpigmentation: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options, by Dr. Sheenam – Best Dermatologist, Skinology+ Clinic, Chandigarh

Hyperpigmentation is perhaps the most prevalent skin issue of patients consulting Skinology+ Clinic in Chandigarh. Whether dark spots, sun spots, melasma, or post-acne scars, irregular skin tone can influence appearance as well as confidence. The silver lining? With proper knowledge and advice, hyperpigmentation can be effectively controlled.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is an area of skin darker than the rest of the skin. This happens as a result of overproduction of melanin—the skin coloring pigment. It can happen in anyone but Indian and darker skins are more likely to experience it because they have increased melanin activity.

Frequent Causes of Hyperpigmentation

• Sun Exposure: UV rays cause melanin stimulation that results in tanning and dark spots in the long term.
• Hormonal Changes: Melasma, which appears in pregnancy or with contraceptive use, leads to patches of brown discoloration, commonly on the cheeks and forehead.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): It results from injuries to the skin—such as acne, eczema, cuts, or burns—that produce dark marks.
• Aging: Due to aging, the function of the skin to repair itself becomes slower, hence emphasizing dark spots (also referred to as age spots or liver spots).
• Certain Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or antibiotics, can cause pigmentation changes.

How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

Although you can't always prevent influences like hormones or genetics, you can minimize your risk:

• Daily Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily—even indoors or on overcast days. Reapply every 2–3 hours when outside.
• Avoid Picking Skin: Popping zits or scratching rashes raises the risk of PIH.
• Use Gentle Skin Care: Rough scrubs or irritants will aggravate pigmentation. Use gentle, non-comedogenic products.
• Protective Apparel: Hats, sunglasses, and scarves offer additional protection against sun exposure.

Effective Treatment Options

We at Skinology+ Clinic tailor treatments for hyperpigmentation according to skin type, cause, and severity. Here are some evidence-based options:

Topical Treatments

• Hydroquinone (prescription-strength skin-lightening agent)
• Vitamin C (brightens skin and minimizes free radical damage)
• Niacinamide (lessens inflammation and melanin production)
• Retinoids (stimulate cell turnover and fade dark spots with time)
• Azelaic Acid & Kojic Acid (safe and effective depigmenting agents)

Chemical Peels

Mild to moderate peels (such as glycolic acid or TCA) remove the outer layer of skin and lighten dark patches. Multiple sessions may be required.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments such as Q-switched Nd:YAG or fractional lasers aim at deep pigmentation and work well when done by trained experts.

Microneedling & PRP

These procedures enhance skin rejuvenation and lighten pigmentation by stimulating collagen formation.

Dr. Sheenam's important message

Hyperpigmentation is not merely a cosmetic concern—it may have emotional implications as well. The solution lies in early diagnosis and proper treatment. At Skinology+ Clinic in Chandigarh, we employ safe, evidence-based therapies suited to your skin type.

If dark spots or uneven skin tone are affecting your confidence, schedule a consultation today. Together, we’ll restore your skin’s natural clarity and radiance.