Hyperpigmentation: What You Can Do About Skin Discolouration
What Is Hyperpigmentation (Skin Discolouration)?
Hyperpigmentation is when patches of skin are darker than the surrounding area. This happens due to the overproduction of melanin, the natural pigment responsible for your skin’s colour, by cells called melanocytes.
If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, know that you’re not alone. Studies show that 5% of the world’s population has some form of hyperpigmentation. Common signs include dark spots on the face, hands, or other body areas, varying in size and shade.
While hyperpigmentation is usually harmless, it can significantly impact your confidence and emotional well-being. Addressing this concerns starts with understanding the condition and exploring effective treatments tailored to your skin type.
Don’t let hyperpigmentation bring you and your confidence down. Book a consultation today and get that glowing skin of your dreams!
Hyperpigmentation Symptoms
Hyperpigmentation changes the appearance of your skin. It can occur in any part of your body and vary in size and intensity. Let’s look at the common symptoms you may experience in each area.
Hyperpigmentation on Face
Your face is the most visible area affected by hyperpigmentation. Look out for:
- Dark patches or spots on your cheeks, forehead or chin
- Uneven skin tone on your face
- Brown or greyish marks that don’t match your natural skin colour
- Darker areas around your eyes or mouth
These may be flat and small freckle-like marks or larger patches They may become more noticeable after sun exposure. If you have acne, you may see dark spots left behind after spots heal.
Hyperpigmentation on Legs
Leg hyperpigmentation is annoying, especially during warmer months. Look out for:
- Dark patches on your shins or calves
- Uneven skin tone on your thighs
- Brown or reddish spots that don’t fade
- Darker areas around scars or old injuries
These may become more noticeable after shaving or waxing. You may also see increased pigmentation around insect bites or areas where you’ve had skin inflammation.
Hyperpigmentation Around Mouth
The area around your mouth is more prone to hyperpigmentation. Look out for:
- A dark ‘moustache’ above your upper lip
- Darker skin around the corners of your mouth
- Uneven colouring on your chin or lower cheeks
- Brown patches that extend from your lips outwards
This is more common in darker skin tones and can worsen with sun exposure, melasma, vitamin deficiency, or hormonal changes.
Experiencing any of these symptoms? Don’t let it hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Dr HAACH today.
Localised vs Widespread Hyperpigmentation
Localised hyperpigmentation is characterised by dark patches that are prominent in specific areas of the skin. This type of hyperpigmentation is mainly caused by the increase of melanin production on the body and external factors, such as skin injuries from burns, cuts, scrapes, and acne scars. Other causes are excessive sun exposure, skin inflammation from skin conditions like melasma, and abnormal skin growths like freckles and moles.
Widespread hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, affects larger areas of the body. This type is typically linked to internal factors that may be symptoms of underlying health conditions. Common causes include hormonal changes or imbalance, medications, and excessive exposure to heavy metals.
The common treatment options for localised hyperpigmentation can range from topical creams to laser therapies and chemical peels. For widespread hyperpigmentation this may require addressing underlying medical conditions and adjusting medications. Knowing which type of hyperpigmentation you experience is key to understanding the condition and choosing the right treatment plan for you.
Hyperpigmentation Causes
Hyperpigmentation occurs when your skin produces too much melanin resulting in dark patches. Many factors can trigger this excess melanin production from sun exposure to health conditions.
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is the number 1 cause of hyperpigmentation. When your skin absorbs UV rays, it produces more melanin to protect itself, which can result in dark spots, particularly on your face, hands, and arms. Activities like sunbathing, outdoor sports, and even short walks can contribute to sun damage. The effects build up over time, so changes may not be immediately noticeable.
Genetics
Hyperpigmentation can run in families. If parents or close relatives have hyperpigmentation or conditions that can lead to hyperpigmentation like melasma, then this makes you more susceptible to developing hyperpigmentation.
Exposure to heavy metals
Excessive exposure to metals, such as iron, arsenic, gold, iron, and lead can damage the cells and tissues, including melanocytes. This leads to melanocytes producing too much melanin which causes hyperpigmentation. Heavy metals also cause hyperpigmentation by disrupting the body’s hormonal balance which affects the production of melanin.
Tobacco smoke
Smoking fosters melanin that leads to dark patches and age spots, especially in different areas of the face. Furthermore, it disrupts the flow of nutrients in the skin, making it look dull and greyish.
Skin Disorders
Certain skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, lupus, and acne, can lead to dark patches on the skin due to inflammation, resulting in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). For instance, after healing from acne, you may notice dark marks where the spots were, which can persist for months even after the acne has cleared.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks are coloured spots present at birth and come in various types. Café-au-lait spots are light brown patches, Mongolian spots are blue-grey marks typically found on the lower back, and port-wine stains are pink or red patches usually located on the face. While most birthmarks are harmless, some might need a closer look. It’s always best to get checked immediately if you notice any changes in the size, shape, or colour of your birthmark. As always, prevention is better than cure.
Infection
Skin infections can occasionally lead to hyperpigmentation as your body ramps up melanin production to combat the infection, resulting in dark patches on the skin. Common infections that may cause these dark spots include fungal infections such as tinea versicolor, bacterial infections, and viral infections like chickenpox. Typically, these dark spots will fade once the infection resolves; however, in some cases, they may linger.
Skin Cancer
Certain types of skin cancer can manifest as dark spots, and while not all dark spots are cancerous, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. Keep an eye out for spots that grow or change shape, moles with uneven edges or varying colours, and any new growths on your skin.
Injury Or Trauma (Like Burns Or Blisters)
When your skin sustains an injury, it may produce excess melanin, leading to dark spots known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This can occur from burns (whether from heat or chemicals), cuts and scrapes, blisters, or insect bites. While these dark spots typically fade over time, the process can take months or even years.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can lead to skin inflammation and the formation of dark spots, often caused by common triggers such as food allergies, cosmetic products, medications like antimalarial drugs and tricyclic antidepressants, and plants like poison ivy. These rashes can result in itching and swelling, and as they heal, they may leave behind dark patches on the skin.
Medications
Certain medications, such as amiodarone, hydroquinone, antimalarials, tetracycline antibiotics, and phenothiazines, can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun or lead to the development of dark spots. Furthermore, common culprits also include birth control pills like Yasmin, antibiotics like heart medications, and cancer chemotherapy drugs, such as Melphalan, busulfan, and BCNU (topical). If you notice any changes in your skin after starting a new medication, it’s important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan, and never stop taking prescribed medications without medical advice.
Chemicals
Certain medications, such as amiodarone, hydroquinone, antimalarials, tetracycline antibiotics, and phenothiazines, can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun or lead to the development of dark spots. Furthermore, common culprits also include birth control pills like Yasmin, antibiotics like heart medications, and cancer chemotherapy drugs, such as Melphalan, busulfan, and BCNU (topical). If you notice any changes in your skin after starting a new medication, it’s important to consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan, and never stop taking prescribed medications without medical advice.
Health Conditions
Addison's disease
Addison’s disease is an adrenal disorder that causes the body to not produce enough hormones called cortisol. Cortisol is essential in life and without it, the body finds it difficult to deal with and regulate stress levels, immune system, blood pressure, heart function, and sugar levels. Hyperpigmentation in Addison’s disease is due to the excessive production of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). This hormone is responsible for stimulating the production of melanin, which gives our skin its colour. Without enough cortisol from the adrenal glands, the body produces more MSH to compensate for the lack of cortisol. Excessive MSH can cause more melanin production which leads to darker skin patches.
Hemochromatosis
This condition is when the body absorbs too much iron from the food you consume which leads to iron overload. Excess iron stored in your organs, particularly in your heart, liver, and pancreas causes hyperpigmentation. Hemochromatosis is more noticeable on sun-exposed skin, especially on the face, and produces brownish bronze or sometimes slate grey colouration.
Vitamin Deficiency
Vitamin deficiency, especially in B12 and folic acid, can cause hyperpigmentation. The lack of healthy red blood cells due to vitamin deficiency can lead to anaemia that makes the skin pale. The body will compensate for the lack of red blood cells by creating excessive melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation. This can cause darkening of the skin, particularly on the toes, palms, soles, and the fingers. The hyperpigmentation due to vitamin deficiency may appear as patchy.
Diabetes
Hyperpigmentation that is caused by diabetes is also called acanthosis nigricans (AN). This type is usually caused by insulin resistance or the poor use of insulin by the body. Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels and if the body not using insulin effectively, the body will produce more melanin that will later result in hyperpigmentation. This is commonly found in areas of the body where there are creases and folds, particularly on the neck and armpits. The excess amount of sugar can also cause dark circles.
Thyroid Issues
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can also cause hyperpigmentation. Abnormal thyroid hormone levels, whether that’s too high or too low, can disrupt the normal production of melanin and with it comes hyperpigmentation. Skin discolouration is also one of the most common effects of thyroid medications. Furthermore, studies show that hyperpigmentation has been reported in 2% of hyperthyroidism patients worldwide.
Pregnancy
Skin hyperpigmentation is very common during pregnancy. This type of hyperpigmentation appears in different parts of the body, such as the armpits, nipples or areolas, and genitals. The main cause of hyperpigmentation during pregnancy is the changes in hormones, where the body produces an excessive amount of estrogen (a steroid hormone associated with the female reproductive organs) and progesterone (also a hormone that plays a role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy). This triggers the melanocyte-stimulating hormones to also produce more “protective pigments” or dark patches around the body.
Hyperpigmentation Types
Hyperpigmentation comes in many forms, each with its characteristics and causes. These different types can occur on different parts of the body and can be caused by sun exposure, increased levels of a hormone in your body that results in increased melanin synthesis, or skin injuries.
Melasma
Melasma is a condition that results in brown or grey-brown patches on the face, typically appearing on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It is more common in women, often triggered by hormonal changes during pregnancy or from birth control pills, and can worsen with sun exposure. The patches may fade after pregnancy or upon discontinuing hormonal medications.
Freckles
Freckles are small, light brown spots that typically occur on the face, arms, and shoulders, becoming more prominent with sun exposure. Individuals with fair skin and red or blonde hair are more susceptible to developing freckles. They usually appear during childhood and may fade in the winter months. While freckles are harmless, they can sometimes lead to self-consciousness for some individuals.
Maturational Hyperpigmentation
Maturational hyperpigmentation is a natural part of ageing, resulting in uneven skin colour that often manifests as darker patches or spots. This condition is most prevalent in sun-exposed areas like the face and hands, with genetics influencing its severity. Utilising sun protection can help slow the progression of maturational hyperpigmentation.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) arises after skin injury or inflammation, often resulting from conditions like acne or eczema, and appears as dark spots or patches in the affected areas. While PIH can affect anyone, it is more prominent in individuals with darker skin tones, with spots ranging from light brown to black that may take months or even years to fade. To prevent PIH, it is essential to practise gentle skincare and use sun protection.
Periorbital Hyperpigmentation
Periorbital hyperpigmentation, commonly known as dark circles under the eyes, can create an appearance of fatigue or ageing. This condition can be triggered by various factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, allergies, and sun exposure, with the thin skin around the eyes making these dark circles more prominent.
Sunspots
Sunspots, or solar lentigines, are flat brown spots that develop on sun-exposed skin, commonly seen in individuals over 50 but can appear earlier. Caused by years of sun exposure, they typically form on the face, hands, and arms and serve as indicators of sun damage, though usually harmless. To prevent sunspots, it’s important to use sunscreen and limit sun exposure.
Non-solar lentigines, on the other hand, are not caused by excessive sun exposure, but by a rare hereditary disorder like the Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.
Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans leads to dark, velvety patches on the skin, commonly found in body folds such as the neck, armpits, and groin, often accompanied by thickened skin. This can indicate insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances and is more prevalent in individuals with diabetes or who are overweight. Addressing the underlying cause through weight loss and lifestyle changes can help improve the condition.
Hyperpigmentation Diagnosis
An accurate diagnosis is essential for successful treatment, and for hyperpigmentation, it includes:
- Medical History and Lifestyle Factors: Your clinician will inquire about your medical history and lifestyle, including questions about sun exposure, medications, recent skin treatments, and any hormonal changes related to pregnancy or contraceptive use.
- Full Skin Examination: Your journey to healthier, glowing skin free from pigmentation starts with a thorough skin examination. A trained professional will conduct a thorough examination of the affected areas, assessing the colour, size, and pattern of the pigmented spots.
- Wood’s Light Examination: To evaluate the depth of the pigmentation, your clinician may utilise a Wood’s lamp, which shines ultraviolet light on your skin to help determine if the discolouration is superficial or deeper within the skin.
- Skin Biopsy: For a more precise diagnosis, your clinician may perform a skin biopsy by taking a small sample of your skin for microscopic examination. While not always necessary, this procedure can help rule out other conditions.
- Additional Testing: In some cases, further tests may be required, such as blood tests to identify underlying health issues that could be contributing to the hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation Treatments Offered by Dr HAACH
From gentle peels to advanced laser treatments, there are various treatment options that can help you with pigmentation. Whatever your skin type and reference is, there is a treatment for you.
At DrHAACH, we offer a series of treatments suitable for mild, moderate, and severe hyperpigmentation that bring long-lasting solutions to your skin problems.
Carbon Peel
A carbon peel, commonly known as a “carbon laser peel” or “Hollywood peel,” is a versatile aesthetic treatment that uses light energy to effectively address a range of skin concerns, including acne, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores.
Carbon Peel Benefits
- Reducing fine lines: A carbon peel stimulates collagen production and remodelling, rejuvenating the skin and effectively targeting fine lines and wrinkles.
- Minimising pores: A carbon laser peel can enhance your complexion by minimising the appearance of pores. It helps unclog congested pores and reduces oil production in the skin, leading to a smoother, more even texture.
- Evening out skin tone: Removes dead skin cells, promoting the growth of healthy new skin that gives off a whiter and even complexion.
For optimal results, multiple sessions may be required, with each treatment lasting approximately 30 minutes. Most individuals notice improvements after 2 to 3 sessions. Carbon peels are safe for all skin types, and while you might experience slight redness afterwards, this typically subsides within a day.
Multiple sessions are recommended for optimal results, with each treatment lasting around 30 minutes. Most people notice improvements after 2 to 3 sessions. Carbon peels are safe for all skin types, and any slight redness typically fades within a day.
Who Should Try This
Carbon peel is best suited for individuals who experience the following:
- Active acne
- Those with large pores
- People experiencing dull skin appearance
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Those with poor skin texture
- People dealing with uneven skin tone
- Those with skin discolouration and pigmentation
Chemical Peel
Chemical peels use acids to remove the top layers of skin, revealing fresher more even-toned skin beneath. They can be mild, medium or deep depending on your needs.
Common Acids Used in Chemical Peels
- Glycolic acid: Well-known for their effectiveness in evening out skin tone and reducing hyperpigmentation. They can also enhance your skin’s glow and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
- Salicylic acid: Provides gentle exfoliation for the skin. They penetrate the top layer, helping to unclog pores, enhance skin tone and texture, and reduce the appearance of melasma.
- Lactic acid: Lactic acid is a natural ingredient that gently removes dead skin cells from the surface, helping the skin renew itself and produce more collagen. This makes the skin smoother, softer, and more elastic.
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA): Among the more powerful options available and can effectively eliminate dark marks caused by spots or skin injuries. Improves the overall appearance of the skin by fading unwanted marks.
Chemical Peel Benefits
- Reducing dark spots: Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, effectively removing the top layer of dead skin cells. This process helps diminish dark spots and pigmentation, revealing brighter, smoother skin beneath.
- Improving skin texture: Removes the top layer of dead skin cells, which helps to reveal fresher, healthier skin beneath. This process encourages new skin growth, leading to a smoother and more even skin texture.
- Stimulating collagen production: By eliminating dead skin cells, chemical peels enhance cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin over time.
You may need multiple treatments spaced a few weeks apart. Mild peels typically have minimal downtime, while deeper peels may require a week or more for recovery. It’s essential to use sunscreen after a peel, as your skin will be more sensitive to UV rays.
Who Should Try This
Chemical peels are recommended for those with:
- age spots
- sun damage
- melasma
- blotchy skin
Fotona Laser
Fotona laser treatments use advanced technology to target pigmented areas without damaging the surrounding skin. This precise approach is suitable for all skin types.
Fotona Laser Benefits
- Breaking down pigment particles: The laser light breaks up the melanin pigment into smaller particles, which are then removed by the body’s immune system.
- Stimulating collagen production: The laser’s thermal energy heats the tissue, which stimulates the production of collagen, leading to long-lasting skin rejuvenation.
- Improving skin texture: It significantly reduces signs of ageing, like fine lines and sun damage, while also improving skin texture and enhancing suppleness.
Fotona Treatments Can Help With:
- Sun damage: Addresses sun damage by targeting and reducing the appearance of dark spots, uneven skin tone, and fine lines caused by UV exposure.
- Age spots: Boosts collagen production and promotes the body’s natural healing processes, leading to the gradual fading of age spots and revealing a more even skin tone.
- Melasma: Breaking down excess melanin in the skin without damaging surrounding skin and tissue, which lightens dark patches and promotes a more even skin tone.
Most individuals require 3 to 5 sessions for optimal results, with each session lasting about 30 minutes. You may experience slight redness or swelling afterwards, but this typically goes away within a day or two.
Fotona laser treatments have minimal downtime and provide long-lasting results, so it’s important to follow your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions, including using sunscreen daily.
Who Should Try This
Individuals experiencing the following conditions best suit this treatment:
- Melasma
- Sunspots
- Age spots
- Large pores
Want to break free from the chains of hyperpigmentation? Book a consultation with DrHAACH today and bring back that youthful glow!
Other Hyperpigmentation Treatment Options on the Market
- Microneedling: This process uses small needles to induce micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulates collagen formation and promotes skin rejuvenation. Microneedling can gradually erase dark spots and enhance skin texture. Although microneedling is a less invasive procedure, it does require numerous sessions to produce obvious results and may cause temporary redness and swelling.
- B-Resorcinol: This ingredient, which is also called butyl resorcinol, is effective in reducing melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme that forms melanin.
- Intense pulse light therapy (IPL): Also known as a photo facial, Intense Pulse Light Therapy fosters collagen growth and is utilised for overall pigmentation issues, especially flat spots. This non-ablative laser treatment also helps reduce spider veins, enlarged pores, and wrinkles.
- Azelaic Acid: Super effective for hyperpigmentation, especially on acne-prone skin. Azelaic acid works by targeting melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin which reduces excessive pigment production. It balances out skin tone and has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin and prevent future breakouts. Adding azelaic acid to your skincare will give you clearer and more even skin while minimising hyperpigmentation and acne. It’s a 2-in-1 treatment that targets the root cause and the symptoms of skin discolouration.
Dr HAACH provides focused treatments for hyperpigmentation, such as carbon peels, chemical peels, and fotona lasers. Compared to choices such as microneedling and prescription creams, our treatments are less intrusive, involve fewer sessions, and are personalised to specific skin needs, resulting in effective solutions with less discomfort and downtime.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment Cost in Singapore
Here’s roughly what you can expect to fork out for various hyperpigmentation treatments in Singapore.
- Carbon Laser Peel: SGD 128 – SGD 500
- Fotona Laser: SGD 128 – SGD 500
- Chemical Peel: SGD 100 – SGD 500
- Microneedling: SGD 168 – SGD 680
- Prescription Creams: SGD 50 – SGD 250 per tube
Are There Subsidies for Hyperpigmentation Treatment In Singapore?
At Dr Haach, we believe in making beauty treatments accessible to everyone. To help you better manage your finances, we offer 3 interest-free payments via Atome. In Singapore, most health insurance coverage excludes cosmetic procedures such as treatment for hyperpigmentation, since they are considered non-essential. In some cases, treatment may be paid for if the pigmentation is caused by a medical condition or causes significant psychological distress. To find out if your policy covers treatment costs, check with your insurance provider.
Why Choose Dr Haach To Remove Pigmentation?
High client satisfaction: Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our high client satisfaction ratings, with a 4.6★ average on Google. This showcases our dedication to achieving positive outcomes for our patients while ensuring their comfort and safety.
Experienced team: DrHaach brings a wealth of expertise to pigmentation removal treatments, drawing on 26 years of family legacy in skincare to deliver exceptional results.
Personalised treatment plans: We understand that every patient is unique, which is why we create customised treatment plans tailored to your skin type and needs.
Latest technology: Our team employs advanced technology alongside customised treatment plans, ensuring effective and innovative care.
Patient comfort: Your comfort is our priority; we strive to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can relax and feel at ease during your visit. Our friendly team is also here to address any questions or concerns you may have, whether that’s before, during, or after the treatment.
Convenient locations: Our clinics are situated in the heart of Singapore, making them easily accessible for all patients seeking our services.
Struggling with hyperpigmentation? From personalised care to advanced technology that changes the game in fighting skin discolouration, DrHAACH is here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment today and say goodbye to dark spots.
Hyperpigmentation Prevention
Caused by excessive sun exposure:
- Apply sunscreen with at least 30 SPF
- Use physical blockers, such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide and with broad spectrum coverage
- Wear hats and other protective clothing
- Avoid sun exposure, especially during 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Caused by injuries or trauma:
- Treat wounds promptly
- Keep wounds clean
- Avoid picking at scabs or blisters
Caused by allergic reactions:
- Use gentle skincare products
- Identify your triggers
- Consult a doctor when severe reactions occur
By Other Causes:
- Wear gloves when using harsh chemicals
- Do a patch test with new cosmetics
- Rinse your skin if it comes into contact with irritants
Book A Consultation
FAQs
Can Hyperpigmentation be Removed?
Yes, hyperpigmentation can be treated with various methods, including chemical peels, intense pulsed light, and laser therapy. While these treatments can effectively fade dark spots, results may vary, and some options may take time to show effects.
What Does Pigmentation Look Like?
Pigmentation appears as darker patches or spots on the skin, which can be brown, grey, or black. The size and shape of these areas can vary, ranging from small freckles to larger patches.
What is the Best Treatment for Pigmentation?
While the best treatment for pigmentation depends on your skin type and its cause, treatment options include topical creams, chemical peels, and laser treatments. Consulting a dermatologist can help identify the most suitable approach for you.
Which Vitamin is Good for Pigmentation?
Vitamin C is frequently recommended for pigmentation as it helps brighten the skin and reduce dark spots. It is commonly found in various skincare products.
Does Vitamin C Help with Hyperpigmentation?
Yes, vitamin C is effective for hyperpigmentation as it is an antioxidant that brightens the skin and inhibits melanin production. Consistent use can help fade dark spots over time.
Pigmentation vs Hyperpigmentation
Pigmentation refers to your skin’s natural colour, while hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to excess melanin production.
How long will Hyperpigmentation treatment results show?
While recovery rates vary, it can take anything from three to 24 months for the darkened areas to fade.
Does hyperpigmentation cause any symptoms?
Yes, but other than dark spots, there are no other symptoms produced by hyperpigmentation.
What works best for each skin tone?
For fair skin tone, it works well with most hyperpigmentation procedures, specifically high-beam lasers and IPL therapy. Medium skin tones respond well to chemical peels and microdermabrasion. For darker skin tone, OTC lightening creams, lower-strength chemical peels, microdermabrasion, glycolic acid, laser treatments with low intensities for a greater number of procedures, and kojic acid.
Should I ever seek medical care for hyperpigmentation?
If your skin is hot to the touch, painful, itchy, red, and pus, blood, or other substances are leaking then it’s time to seek the help of a healthcare provider.
Medical References
Nautiyal, Avni, and Sarika Wairkar. “Management of Hyperpigmentation: Current Treatments and Emerging Therapies.” Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research, vol. 34, no. 6, June 2021, pp. 1000–14, doi:10.1111/pcmr.12986.
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