Hyperpigmentation is often the result of excess melanin clustering along the surface layer of the skin. Whenever you expose yourself to the sun, the ultraviolet rays stimulate the production of melanin, a compound responsible for pigmentation. Sometimes, the melanin can stick together, even after sun exposure is no longer an issue. This results in patches of discoloration on the skin. To help fade these areas of hyperpigmentation, treatments must break up the clusters of melanin or somehow remove the surface layer of the skin.
Step 1
Apply topical hydroquinone to the discolored areas of the skin to break up the melanin, recommends the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Hydroquinone is a skin bleaching agent found in many over-the-counter and prescription fade creams.
Step 2
Spread a thin layer of tretinoin over the discolored areas of the skin. Like hydroquinone, tretinoin can help to break of the clusters of melanin. This prescription medication is often combined with hydroquinone or topical corticosteroids, explains MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Fade areas of hyperpigmentation with cryotherapy. This method is best used on smaller areas of skin discoloration, since the area is frozen with dry ice or liquid nitrogen to destroy the excess melanin. Age spots are commonly treated with this procedure.
Step 4
Invest in skin rejuvenation therapy, such as chemical peels, dermabrasion or laser therapy. Any one of these cosmetic procedure can improve the appearance of your skin by either removing discolored skin cells or destroying excess melanin. Chemical peels and dermabrasion remove the surface layer of the skin, encouraging new skin cells to form that lack the excess melanin. Laser therapy breaks up the excess melanin, much like hydroquinone or tretinoin, causing hyperpigmentation to fade.
Things You'll Need
- Topical hydroquinone cream
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