Reflections

It's important to recognize that there is no quick-fix to hyperpigmentation. However, combining your at-home regimen with professional treatments can expedite the process.

When a hyperpigmented area is exposed to UV light, more melanin production is triggered on a cellular level, causing further darkening.

Ironically, melanin production and further darkening of skin is just your skin trying to protect itself from UV light. But this can cause the strictest of brightening regimens to fail to produce results. Daily application of a minimum of SPF30 will help shield skin from UV light to control melanin production on a cellular level.

Hydroquinone is a topical ingredient popular for skin lightening.

It’s classified as an over-the-counter drug in the United States and has been used in concentrations up to 2% within products designed to lighten skin.

While it is popular, there are many concerns regarding its safety. It is estimated that one-third of the population is allergic to Hydroquinone, and skin may become photosensitized with prolonged use, causing an actual darkening of skin.

Hyperpigmentation is the result of an overproduction of melanin.

Melanin is what gives skin and hair its color, and amongst other benefits, helps protect skin against damaging UV light and absorbs heat from the sun. However, an overproduction of melanin leads to a mottled, uneven skin tone. Overproduction of melanin is stimulated by excessive sun exposure, hormones, or scarring.

1) Sun exposure: When skin is repeatedly exposed to UV light, sun damage occurs. Brown spots appear as a result of too much melanin being produced to help protect skin from UV light.