Epidermal hyperpigmentation is the result of parts of the skin being abnormally dark. This is a result of overproduction of the compound melanin, which is a dark pigment which can be found in the skin. Sometimes hyperpigmentation is caused by sun damage and other times it is the result of skin inflammation. Regardless of the cause, treatments for epidermal hyperpigmentation typically focus on either removing the upper layers of skin or removing the excess pigment.
Step 1
Purchase and pply over-the-counter creams or ointments to help lighten areas of epidermal hyperpigmentation. SkinWhitening.org notes that there are many different kinds of cosmetic creams that can be used Some of these creams contain hydroquinone, whereas others contain chemicals called alpha-hydroxy acids (such as glycolic acid and kojic acid). These creams typically need to be applied every day for maximum effectiveness.
Step 2
Apply topical retinoids. Topical retinoids (which include tretinoin) are powerful medications that work to speed the rate at which the upper layers of skin are shed, which helps reduce pigment levels. These ointments can only be purchased with a prescription and need to be applied daily to be effective.
Step 3
Get treated with chemical peels. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery explains that chemical peels work by damaging the upper layer of skin which causes it to peel off. The skin underneath (which is less pigmented) can then come to the surface. Chemical peels can use alpha-hydroxy acids, trichloroacetic acid or other acids. Because these compounds can cause skin irritation and damage, they are best used under the supervision of a dermatologist.
Step 4
Receive dermabrasion treatment. Much like chemical peels, dermabrasion works to take off the upper layers of the skin to allow the younger and lighter skin to rise to the surface. Dermabrasion uses a machine that rotates at a very high speed that has an abrasive brush at the end which sands off the upper epidermal layers. Dermabrasion is a very delicate procedure and should only be performed by dermatologists.
Step 5
Have your skin lightened using lasers. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, laser surgery works by focusing high energy light beams of specific wavelengths at the hyperpigmented parts of your body. the light wavelengths are chosen so that they are absorbed by pigments in the skin, vaporizing them.
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