Hyperpigmentation is a common skin issue that often brings people to a dermatologist or esthetician for help. This darkening of the skin can have many causes, but can you treat hyperpigmentation?
At Xenana Spa, we have a lot of experience helping to treat hyperpigmentation. Our goal is for you to look and feel your best, so we invite you to reach out with questions so we can guide you to the best spa service for your needs. Or, if you already know which service you’d like, feel free to book an appointment.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which some parts of the skin become darker than the rest. It happens when there is an overproduction of melanin, and there are several reasons this may occur:
- UV Damage
- Hormonal Fluctuations and Pregnancy
- Inflammation – for example, acne or bug bites
- Certain Medications or Medical Conditions
Because they already have more melanin than light-skinned folks, people with darker skin tend to get hyperpigmentation more easily or frequently.
Can You Treat Hyperpigmentation?
While there is no sure-fire “cure” for hyperpigmentation, estheticians and dermatologists do have some ways to help treat it. These treatments can lighten the darker patches for most people and even eliminate them for others.
Here are the top three ways to treat hyperpigmentation.
1. Prevention
It’s nearly impossible to talk about skincare and skin conditions without first discussing prevention. Since inflammation and UV damage are primary culprits for causing hyperpigmentation, avoiding them is the first step.
No matter the weather and no matter your skin tone, wearing sunscreen every day is your first line of defense against hyperpigmentation. By avoiding UV damage in the first place, you can give your skin its best chance to stay healthy.
The other crucial prevention factor is to avoid anything that inflames the skin:
- Popping Pimples
- Picking at Bug Bites
- Harsh Soaps and Cleansers
By skipping the temptation to “pick,” you will do your skin a world of good.
2. Over-the-Counter or Prescription Products
Some OTC skincare products can help lighten dark patches in the skin, but outcomes tend to be unreliable. Topical lightening creams and gels work best on small, flat dark areas, such as age spots. Although these options take longer than professional treatment to produce results, they may be more affordable in some cases.
If OTC options don’t do what you need them to do, a dermatologist may be able to prescribe something stronger. Topical products with prescription-strength hydroquinone can help dark areas to fade.
3. Professional Skincare Services
The safest and most reliable way to treat hyperpigmentation is to be under the care of a professional esthetician or dermatologist. Services such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, or light therapy can help lighten darker patches.
Working with an expert also helps ensure you choose a safe treatment for your circumstances. For example, in the case of melasma, light therapy could make it worse. It’s crucial to work with someone who understands the nuances of treating hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, your esthetician may use or carry products that do not require a prescription but also may not be available for purchase to the public. At Xenana, our providers love and trust Catalyst AC-11 DNA Repair C Serum by Osmosis and Eminence Citrus and Kale Vitamin C Serum.
Our estheticians also offer peels, LED light therapy, and infusion facials which all treat hyperpigmentation. We’re happy to chat with you about the best option for your skin’s needs.
Feeling Your Best with Xenana
At Xenana Spa, we understand that looking and feeling your best requires a holistic approach. By offering professional skincare, massage therapy, and yoga classes, our team can address many imbalances you experience. Book your next service today to reclaim your highest wellness.
