Hyperpigmentation is the overgrowth of melanin in your skin. In normal circumstances, melanin production maintains an even color throughout your skin. But some antibiotics and other drugs (such as antimalarial medication or some heart medications) as well as pregnancy can cause an overgrowth of melanin. The resulting brown spots often appear on the face, though they can appear on other areas of your body that are exposed to the sun. Getting rid of them can be simple, though darker patches or areas that are stubborn may require the help of a dermatologist.
Removal
Step 1
Make sure to apply sunscreen. One of the most common causes of melasma or chloasma, the medical terms for hyperpigmentation, is exposure to the sun. Wearing an SPF of 15 or higher can not only prevent the creation of hyperpigmentation, it can also prevent current spots from darkening.
Step 2
Look in your cabinets. Some home treatments suggest the use of lemon juice, aloe vera gel or the juice wrung from a combination of onions and vinegar. Simply apply your choice to the spots for a few weeks and see if they disappear.
Step 3
Consider a cream. Lightening creams that contain hydroquinone are chemically devised to bleach the dark spots on your skin. They are not, however, recommended for those who suffer from kidney or liver diseases. See Resources for some reviews of different lightening creams.
Step 4
Check with your doctor. Stubborn spots may not fade easily. If you've tried home remedies and lightening creams, you may want to check in with the dermatologist. Prescription creams and laser treatment can remove hyperpigmentation. The treatments may need to be conducted over a course of weeks or months and may be expensive, however.
Things You'll Need
- Aloe vera
- Lemon
- Onion
- Vinegar
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