Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area of skin or nails due to an increase in melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. Hyperpigmentation can occur in people of any skin color. It can be caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, certain medications, and inflammation. Hyperpigmentation can be temporary or permanent.
Most people with hyperpigmentation have no medical symptoms. The darkening of the skin is the only sign. In some cases, hyperpigmentation can be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Hyperpigmentation can occur on any part of the body. The most common areas are the face, neck, chest, and back.
There are two types of hyperpigmentation:
- Melasma: Melasma is the most common type of hyperpigmentation. It usually occurs on the face in women of childbearing age. Melasma is often called the “mask of pregnancy” because it is common in pregnant women. Melasma is thought to be caused by hormonal changes. Sun exposure can make melasma worse.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is hyperpigmentation that occurs after the skin has been injured. PIH can be caused by acne, burns, cuts, or bruises. The hyperpigmentation is usually temporary and will fade over time. In some cases, PIH can be permanent.
How to treat hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be treated with topical creams, chemical peels, laser therapy, and light therapy.
Topical creams: Topical creams are the most common treatment for hyperpigmentation. There are many different types of topical creams that can be used to treat hyperpigmentation. Topical creams are applied to the affected area of skin once or twice a day. The cream should be applied to clean, dry skin. The most effective topical creams contain one or more of the following ingredients:
- Hydroquinone
- Kojic acid
- Azelaic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Lactic acid
- Retinoids
Skin lightening soap: There are several soaps that claim to lighten your skin. However, the best hyperpigmentation soap is kojic acid soap. Kojic acid is a natural lightning agent that inhibits the production of melanin. When used on the skin, it can help to lighten dark spots and even out the skin tone. To use kojic acid soap, wet the area of skin you wish to treat and apply the soap. Gently massage the soap into the skin for 1-2 minutes. Rinse the soap off with warm water and pat the skin dry. For best results, use the soap twice daily.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels are another common treatment for hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels are a type of exfoliation that uses a chemical solution to remove the top layer of skin. This can help to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation by lightening the dark spots. Chemical peels are usually done by a dermatologist or esthetician. A chemical peel can be done every one to two months.
Laser therapy: Laser therapy is a treatment that uses a laser to destroy the melanocytes that are causing the hyperpigmentation. Laser therapy is usually done by a dermatologist. Laser therapy can be done every four to six weeks.
Light therapy: Light therapy is a treatment that uses light to destroy the melanocytes that are causing the hyperpigmentation. Light therapy is usually done by a dermatologist. Light therapy can be done every four to six weeks.
The Bottom Line
If you are looking forward to using kojic soap, make sure you choose the best kojic acid soap for hyperpigmentation from a reputed brand, such as Marie France International.