HEALTH & BEAUTY
Body Hyper-pigmentation: What Is It And Why Does It Happen?
By JOSEE NG
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where certain parts of the skin are noticeably darker than the rest, and a common type of hyperpigmentation, melasma, affects about 5 million people in America. This condition happens when your skin produces an excess of melanin, so people with darker skin are more vulnerable to this as their skin tone contains more melanin.
Hyperpigmentation can be a result of sun damage, chloasma or melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and other medical conditions. Chloasma or melasma often occurs during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, and those with acne or eczema may notice pigmentation; it can also be hereditary or form due to anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication.
Depending on your situation, you may want to see a dermatologist and they’ll often prescribe over-the-counter medication like topical retinoids, azelaic acid, or koji acid; for quicker results, they might recommend you get a laser peel or IPL therapy. The best way to prevent hyperpigmentation is to apply SPF 30 or higher daily, and consider laser hair removal to prevent ingrown hair scarring.