Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is characterised by a darkening of an area of skin caused by the overproduction of a pigment in the skin known as melanin. It is relatively common and usually harmless, but for cosmetic reasons, it is a nuisance to those who have it.

Hyper-pigmentation is the result of either of two occurrences: (1) an abnormally high concentration of melanocytes produce melanin or (2) when melanocytes are hyperactive. For instance, sun exposure stimulates the production of melanin.

The following are examples of hyper-pigmentation

• Lentigo/Lentigenes – Lentigo simply means one freckle; lentigenes are multiple freckles.
• Solar Lentigenes – widely known as ‘sun spots,’ ‘age spots’ and ‘liver spots,’ solar lentigenes are freckles caused by sun exposure.
• Melasma – Often known as the ‘pregnancy mask,’ melasma is caused by hormonal changes due to pregnancy and is characterized by splotchy, pigmented areas usually on the face

There are various causes of hyper-pigmentation, including

• Overexposure to the sun
• Heredity
• Picking at the skin
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications such as antibiotics, hormone treatments, and anti-seizure drugs
• Inflammation and skin injuries such as acne vulgaris

What you MUST do to protect yourself

• Avoid excessive sun exposure; try wearing a sun-hat whenever you are in the sun.
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, with minimum SPF of 30 – 50.
• Reapply the sunscreen every three hours if you are out in the open.
• Follow a strict night care regime and use a cream containing acids such as Vitamin A.

Winter is the perfect time to address skin conditions such a hyperpigmentation. We are here to assist you in the process of preventing, correcting and protecting your skin.