Pigmentation disorders are commonly diagnosed, evaluated, and treated in primary care practices. Please confirm that you are a health care professional. Learn about the causes and treatments here. Hyperpigmentation can appear as brown, black, gray, red or pink spots or patches. Certain drugs such as antibiotics and birth control pills, Cryotherapy, laser therapy, or light therapy. Products with certain natural ingredients may help treat dark spots on the skin. Melasma is a common pigmentation disorder that causes dark patches to form on the skin. It's determined by the amount and type of melanin, a pigment made by specialized skin cells known as melanocytes. Concerns & Conditions Acne Types of acne Cystic Acne Blackheads Whiteheads Acne Scars Aging Skin pigmentation describes the color of your skin due to the amount of melanin it contains. Hormonal effects of oestrogen during pregnancy or due to medication can cause pigmentation of nipples, vulva and abdomen (linea nigra). Instead, its a condition called folliculitis. Azelaic acid reduces inflammation and redness, gently exfoliates the surface layers of the skin, and has some antibacterial and antioxidant properties, she says. Dark spots on the skin are not a cause for concern and do not need treatment, though people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Generalised reduction in melanin pigmentation at birth (congenital) may be racial in origin or due to albinism. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin overproduces melanocytes, melanin-producing cells responsible for giving skin its color. Of all the improvements to skin, they found a decrease in pigmentation and an increase in collagen as the two most observed changes. Areas of skin can darken after people have had inflammation of the skin. Author: A/Prof Amanda Oakley, Dermatologist, Hamilton, New Zealand, 2009. Conditions associated with diabetes include acanthosis nigricans, which causes darkened, velvety skin, and shin spots or diabetic dermopathy, which people may confuse with age spots. How to fade dark spots in darker skin tones. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. She has also written a book profiling young female activists across the globe and is currently building a community of such resisters. A person should protect their skin from the sun by using sunscreen and clothing that covers the body and shades the face. Some medications and certain health conditions can also lead to hyperpigmentation. There are several treatments available to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, and they are typically chosen based on skin tone and cause. Prescription-lightening cream works by bleaching the skin. After eliminating drugs as a cause of diffuse hyperpigmentation, patients should be tested for the most common systemic causes. Variations in skin pigmentation are believed to reflect evolutionary adaptations that allowed our ancestors to survive 300,000 to 1 million years ago. Focal read more can result from and also has systemic and neoplastic causes (especially lung carcinomas and melanoma with systemic involvement). But this form of discoloration doesnt just occur above the neck. Because of potential health and environmental toxicities, oxybenzone and benzophenone-3 are usually not preferred sunscreens (3 Melasma references Hyperpigmentation has multiple causes and may be focal or diffuse. Books about skin diseasesBooks about the skin Cosmetic skin or hair products can irritate the skin, causing dark patches to form. Am Fam Physician. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. The most common laser to treat dark spots on the skin uses an intense pulse light laser. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Sarkar R, Bansal S, Garg VK. It has an acne-like appearance characterized by tiny white-headed pimples around the hair follicle or small red bumps, she says. The addition of antioxidants to the sunscreen and oral adjunctive photoprotection agents such as Polypodium leucotomas can enhance protection (1 Melasma references Hyperpigmentation has multiple causes and may be focal or diffuse. They typically first appear during middle age and increase in number with age. It occurs when the skin produces excess melanin, the pigment. Several causes can trigger the development of hyperpigmentation: hormonal fluctuations, sun exposure, inflammation and melasma are among the most common. Hydroquinone should be tested behind one ear or on a small patch on the forearm for 1 week before use on the face because it may cause irritation or an allergic reaction. It can occur anywhere on the body, but sun exposure can make it more pronounced. The best treatments for hyperpigmentation on black skin should be OTC creams, corticosteroids, gentle physical exfoliants and salicylic acid peels. Other than sun exposure, aggravating factors include. People can use creams containing glabridin on areas of hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can be limited to black freckles on the forehead, face and shoulders, but widespread areas of hyperpigmentation are common, described as a bronzing effect. Hypopigmentation vs. Vitiligo: What Are the Differences? There is not enough evidence to suggest that they work, and there may be associated health risks. In women, melasma fades slowly and incompletely after childbirth or cessation of hormone use. It typically works gradually and takes several months to decrease the appearance of dark spots. Lim HW, Kohli I, Ruvolo E, et al: Impact of visible light on skin health: The role of antioxidants and free radical quenchers in skin protection. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Clinical efficacy of liposome-encapsulated. 2017 Jun;10(6):51-67. Loci associated with skin pigmentation identified in African populations. Drugs may cause secondary hyperpigmentation. These treatments require significant downtime but the results are typically dramatic. Investigating the power of music for dementia. Burns, bruises, acne, rashes, or other trauma to the skin can cause it to produce more melanin and lead to dark spots. Copyright 2023 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. If they do not, procedures such as laser treatment may help. Although studies were limited, the researchers said that these natural treatments showed promise in lightening hyperpigmentation. When it appears on the upper lip, it's referred to as a. It can show up anywhere on the body even your buttocks. (See also Overview of Pigmentation Disorders.) 2023 Copyright Derm Collective. One study had patients subjected to 8 microdermabrasion sessions scheduled 1 week apart. Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. DermNet does not provide an online consultation service.If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice. Most cases are due to an increase in melanin production and deposition. Hyperpigmentation - Dermatologic Disorders - Merck Manuals Professional Most cases are due to an increase in melanin production and deposition. A randomized study has shown improvement with oral tranexamic acid in patients with moderate-to-severe melasma (4 Melasma references Hyperpigmentation has multiple causes and may be focal or diffuse. Focal hyperpigmentation is most often postinflammatory in nature, occurring after injury (eg, cuts Lacerations Lacerations are tears in soft body tissue. Common manifestations may include arthralgias and read more ). Remember to shower and change out of your sweaty clothes as soon as possible after your sweat sesh. Ogbechie-Godec OA, et al. For gentle exfoliation, consider the Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads. Seeing spots? Treating hyperpigmentation - Mayo Clinic Health System Some skin lightening products can do more harm than good. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. The resulting hyperpigmentation can worsen when unprotected skin is exposed to the sun. (See also Overview of Pigmentation Disorders.) (2017). The melanocytes of dark-skinned people produce more melanin than those of people with light skin. Key Points Hyperpigmentation has multiple causes and may be focal or diffuse. When it comes to cleansers, you can try the Murad Clarifying Cleanser, which features salicylic acid and green tea extract to help keep skin clear and calm. Injectable skin lightening products are available, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not recommend them. It is not always possible to prevent hyperpigmentation or stop it from becoming more prominent, but there are some ways to reduce the risk. Evaluating the Safety of Skin Bleaching Products and Procedures, Skin Discoloration: Causes and Treatments, Hyperpigmentation Around the Mouth: Everything to Know. J Am Acad Dermatol 86(3S):S27-S37, 2022. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2021.12.024, 3. Variations in the color of your skin depend on the amount, size, and functioning of these tiny melanin factories. Other commonly reported post-inflammatory. Dont hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or therapist for more help. While hydroquinone has long been the gold standard in skin lightening, there is controversy surrounding its use as its safety has been questioned. (2018). Use for phrases If parts of your skin are on the lighter side due to skin damage, time and patience are typically the only treatment you need as your skin rebuilds. Other treatment depends on whether the pigmentation is epidermal or dermal; epidermal pigmentation becomes accentuated with a Wood light Wood light Diagnostic tests are indicated when the cause of a skin lesion or disease is not obvious from history and physical examination alone. Treating Hyperpigmentation: Types, Side Effects, & More - Verywell Health Hyperpigmentation causes skin to become darker or different in color due to an abnormally high amount of melanin or other pigments in the skin. DermNet provides Google Translate, a free machine translation service. Azelaic acid. Hyperpigmentation: Types, treatment, and causes - Medical News Today One reason: The skin in the folds of our buttocks, armpits, elbows, and backs of our knees all have a higher concentration of melanocytes the cells that produce melanin, which is responsible for our skin pigment, says Dr. Kristina Semkova, a consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic. There are many skin lightening creams available both over the counter and by prescription. Doctors are unsure about what causes melasma, but a change in hormones can trigger it, for example, during pregnancy or when using birth control pills. Hydroquinone is a chemical that people may use to lighten their skin when they have a hyperpigmentation condition. During microdermabrasion, a dermatologist uses a special device that has an abrasive surface to remove the outer layer of the skin. During and after therapy, strict sun protection must be maintained. One other note of caution from Semkova: Be aware that treating hyperpigmentation in people with darker skin is tricky, as one of the side effects of all available treatments is hypopigmentation (i.e., loss of pigment). She recommends reaching out to your doctor before trying any of the tips below. A doctor or dermatologist can often work out the cause of dark spots on the skin by examining them and taking a medical history. Anyone can develop dark spots on the skin. It also details skin pigment disorders and how to treat them. We'll explore the many things you can do to, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Dark spots may remain after an insect bite, burn, or cut heals. For darker skin tones, lighter chemical peels can be safely used alongside other treatments. Changes are usually diffuse but sometimes have drug-specific distribution patterns or hues ( see Table: Hyperpigmentation Effects of Some Drugs and Heavy Metals Hyperpigmentation Effects of Some Drugs and Heavy Metals ). The skin often heals lighter afterward. Learn more about the Merck Manuals and our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge. With this treatment, a diamond-tipped handpiece or a spray of fine crystals gently exfoliates the top layers of skin rendering it smoother and less pigmented. Creams and serums contain various ingredients, including retinol or alpha hydroxy acid, which may speed up the exfoliation of the skin and promote new skin growth. Acanthosis nigricans causes focal hyperpigmentation and a velvety plaque most often on the axillae and posterior neck. Preissig J, Hamilton K, Markus R. Current Laser Resurfacing Technologies: A Review that Delves Beneath the Surface. Hyperpigmentation: Age Spots, Sun Spots & Liver Spots - Cleveland Clinic It occurs primarily in pregnant women (melasma gravidarum, also called the mask of pregnancy) and in women taking oral contraceptives Oral Contraceptives Oral contraceptives (OCs) mimic ovarian hormones. Most topical melasma treatments are used in combination rather than individually. Hyperpigmentation - generalised and localised, 414032001, 724839001, 46690002, 110438001, 2306000, 402609009, 238698004, 49765009, 398656003, 23006000, Hyperpigmentation: An Overview of the Common Afflictions. Pigmentation disorders codes and concepts. Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.aad.org/news/dangers-skin-bleaching-to-achieve-lighter-complexion, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6826613/, https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-gb/professional/dermatologic-disorders/pigmentation-disorders/hyperpigmentation, https://escholarship.org/uc/item/3455571b, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28139161, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5843359/, https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/dermatologist-shines-light-on-natural-ingredients-used-in-new-topical-treatments-for-hyperpigmentation, https://www.aocd.org/page/Hyperpigmentation, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-overview, https://dermnetnz.org/topics/postinflammatory-hyperpigmentation, https://www.dermnetnz.org/topics/pigmentation-disorders/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430862/, https://www.ijord.com/index.php/ijord/article/view/765, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/, https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/adrenal-insufficiency-addisons-disease/symptoms-causes, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33160435/, Alzheimers: New blood biomarker could predict risk of cognitive decline, Researchers investigate what causes psoriasis and how it spreads, Low-dose atropine eyedrops may delay onset of nearsightedness in children, Heart attack may speed up cognitive decline, study finds, Type 2 diabetes: 1 in 5 'healthy' people may have prediabetes metabolism, What to know about hyperpigmentation on dark skin, What to know about hyperpigmentation acne, What to know about melasma on dark skin tones, brown, tan, or black spots that appear on the skin with sun overexposure, commonly on the face and hands or on sun-exposed areas of the body, usually older adults or those with extended sun exposure, spots or patches of darkened skin that appear after an inflammatory skin condition, such as acne or, people who have had inflammation or an injury to the skin, steroid-induced acne, leading to scarring and, an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis, blue and purple pigmentation after long-term use, known as exogenous ochronosis though this is rare, using a topical cream that contains zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or iron oxide, using another medication for other types of hyperpigmentation, such as hydroquinone, using camouflage makeup until melasma fades, having a procedure such as a chemical peel, microneedling, or laser or light treatment, examining the skin, possibly with a special light called a Woods light, asking about sun exposure and other lifestyle events or habits, in some cases, taking a biopsy, or a small sample of skin, to help rule out skin cancer, protecting the skin from the sun by using a sunscreen of, avoiding picking at the skin after an injury or when there are spots, scabs, or acne, seeking professional advice before using creams to lighten dark patches, as this can cause reactions, avoiding skin-lightening products to lighten the overall complexion. Manifestations can include systemic symptoms, liver disorders read more , and primary biliary cholangitis Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC; formerly known as primary biliary cirrhosis) is an autoimmune liver disorder characterized by the progressive destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts, leading read more . All rights reserved. In this article, find out about different causes of hyperpigmentation and the treatments available. People with darker skin are more likely to develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Because many drugs that cause skin pigmentation also cause photosensitivity reactions Photosensitivity Photosensitivity is a cutaneous overreaction to sunlight. Although hyperpigmentation on your buttocks is common and doesnt need fixing, there are ways to lighten the patches if you want to treat them. Handel AC, Miot LD, Miot HA. As Addisons disease progresses, the adrenal glands produce less cortisol and aldosterone, which causes the pituitary gland to overcompensate and make more melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSHs). To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. It causes the hair follicle to become inflamed or infected. Kojic acid. In addition, topical kojic acid has been increasingly used; it is a chelating agent that blocks tyrosine conversion to melanin. When she isnt trying to discover a way to banish migraines, she can be found uncovering the answers to your lurking health questions. La Roche Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads, AmLactin Alpha-Hydroxy Therapy Daily Moisturizing Body Lotion, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2921758/, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13555-017-0194-1, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjd.12536, 9 Natural Treatments for Butt Acne (Pimples), How to Treat Skin Hyperpigmentation Naturally, Read This If Youre Asking Yourself, Why Is My Private Area Dark?, Hyperpigmentation Can Get Worse in Dry Weather. If lentigines are a cosmetic concern, they are treated with cryotherapy or laser; hydroquinone is not effective. Depending on the cause, people may call some types of dark spots on the skin age spots or sunspots. If a person wishes to try a new treatment or natural remedy, they should always try the product on a small patch of skin first and stop using it if it irritates the skin. Science. Most (66 to 94%) read more (in which profuse lentigines of the lips occur), multiple lentigines syndrome (or LEOPARD syndrome, which stands for multiple Lentigines, Electrocardiogram [ECG] conduction abnormalities, Ocular hypertelorism, Pulmonic stenosis, Abnormal genitals, Retardation of growth, and sensorineural Deafness), or xeroderma pigmentosum. Some face creams can irritate the skin, leading to further hyperpigmentation. People can apply aloe vera gel from the plant directly to the skin daily. Focal read more , melanoma Melanoma Malignant melanoma arises from melanocytes in a pigmented area (eg, skin, mucous membranes, eyes, or central nervous system). Can diet and exercise reverse prediabetes? Inflammation may occur for various reasons that include eczema, psoriasis, injury to the skin, and acne. Most cases are due to an increase in melanin production and deposition. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect the skin further. Focal read more ). In men, melasma rarely fades. Dermatology Made Easybook. Postinflammatory pigmentation Some skin-lightening creams, such as steroids and hydroquinone cream, have been linked to: People should speak with a doctor before using skin-lightening products, as they may cause adverse effects. During pregnancy, azelaic acid 15 to 20% cream and chemical peeling with glycolic acid are safe to use. This condition can be worsened by sun exposure. They are commonly due to chronic sun exposure (solar lentigines; sometimes called liver spots but are not related to hepatic dysfunction) and occur most frequently on the face and back of the hands. The most common causes are: The body produces more melanin to protect the skin from prolonged exposure to the sun. Relative Potency of Selected Topical Corticosteroids, Hyperpigmentation Effects of Some Drugs and Heavy Metals, Del Rosario E, Florez-Pollack S, Zapata L Jr, et al, Aquaphor 3 IN 1 Diaper Rash, Aquaphor Baby Fast Relief Diaper Rash, Aquaphor Fast Relief Diaper Rash, Balmex, Boudreaux Butt Paste, Boudreauxs Rask, Carlesta, Coppertone, COZIMA, DermacinRx Zinctral, Desitin, Desitin Maximum Strength, Desitin Rapid Relief, Diaper Rash , Dr. Smith Adult Barrier, Dr. Smith's, Dr. Smith's Diaper Rash, Dr. Smith's Rash + Skin, DynaShield, Eucerin Baby Sunscreen Sensitive Mineral , Eucerin Sunscreen Sensitive Mineral, Flanders Buttocks , Medi-Paste, Novana Protect, PanOxyl AM, Triple Paste, Triple Paste Adult Incontinence, Z-Bum, Aclaro, Aclaro PD, Alera, Alphaquin HP , Alustra, Claripel, Complex B, Dermarest Skin Correcting Cream Plus, Eldopaque Forte, Eldoquin Forte, EpiQuin Micro, Esoterica, Glyquin, Glyquin XM, Lustra, Lustra-AF, Lustra-Ultra, Melanex, Melpaque HP , Melquin HP, Melquin-3 , Nava-SC, Nuquin HP, Skin Bleaching, Solaquin Forte, Altinac, Altreno, Atralin, AVITA, Refissa, Renova, Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Tretin-X, Vesanoid. Skin pigmentation refers to the color of your skin. But, with the right routine, treatment, and professional help, its possible to have a more even skin tone across your face and body. Other skin conditions may require ongoing management with the help of a qualified dermatologist, or doctor who specializes in skin, nails, and hair. Pityriasis versicolor Localised pigmentation may be due to melanin, haemosiderin, or externally-derived pigment. This skin condition develops when elevated levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone stimulate melanin overproduction. 2015;8:413-421. doi:10.2147/CCID.S86822. Last medically reviewed on March 29, 2019, Dark spots, usually due to hyperpigmentation, are a common issue for people with black skin. (2013). Hyperpigmentation causes patches of skin to become darker than the surrounding skin. For depigmentation from chronic skin conditions, consult with a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for you. Hyperpigmentation acne occurs when a dark spot appears in place of a pimple that has disappeared. Because visible light is not blocked by most sunscreens, patients should use a tinted sunscreen (eg, that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide).
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