DARK SPOTS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION

Dark spots and hyperpigmentation appear as uneven skin tone, where certain areas become darker than the natural complexion. These spots can take different forms, such as brown spots, age spots (lentigines), sunspots, or acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Hyperpigmentation is generally caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.

Daily sun protection
One of the best preventive measures against hyperpigmentation is the regular use of sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and apply it daily, even in winter, to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Avoid prolonged sun exposure
Limit direct sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your skin.

Use gentle skincare products
Adopt a skincare routine suited to your skin type and avoid harsh products that can cause irritation and worsen hyperpigmentation. Opt for gentle cleansers and moisturizers to maintain skin balance.

Limit hormonal changes
If you are prone to hormonal hyperpigmentation (for example, during pregnancy or while taking contraceptives), talk to your doctor about the best options to limit hormone exposure or consider alternative treatments.

Don’t pick at blemishes
Avoid touching or squeezing acne or other blemishes, as this can trigger further inflammation and increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Brightening creams

• Hydroquinone: A key ingredient used to lighten dark spots by inhibiting melanin production. Hydroquinone creams are commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation.
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C helps reduce melanin production and brighten the skin. It also protects against free radical damage and boosts radiance.

Chemical peels
Medical-grade chemical peels exfoliate the skin deeply, removing pigmented cells and stimulating cell regeneration. These treatments can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation by targeting pigmented areas and evening out the complexion.

Non-fractional lasers (Clear+Brilliant and FRAX 1500)
Fractional laser treatments like FRAX or Clear+Brilliant improve skin texture, reduce pore appearance, and stimulate collagen production. They target melanin in the skin, reducing pigment spots while enhancing firmness and radiance.

Microneedling (Dermapen DP4)
Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, uses micro-needles to stimulate collagen and elastin production while improving skin texture. It also helps reduce pigmentation by promoting skin regeneration.

Retinol-based creams
Retinol, a Vitamin A derivative, is an excellent treatment for improving skin texture and reducing dark spots. It accelerates cell turnover and helps even out the complexion.