Basic Facts On Hyperpigmentation On Face

By Terrie Joyner


Hyperpigmentation on face is a condition that is fairly common and affects both men and women. Most cases are temporary and usually resolve by themselves over time. Others, however, persist much longer and often require some form of treatment. Some medical conditions have been closely associated with this condition. They include, among others, adrenal insufficiency, Cushing's disease, thyroid disease and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Too much exposure to ultra violet rays from the sun is one of the most significant risk factors to formation of facial pigments. Although the rays play vital role in the metabolism of vitamin D, an excessive of the same is harmful to the skin. Persons of African and Asian origin appear to carry the highest risk due to their higher concentrations of the skin pigment, melanin.

During pregnancy, a number of hormonal changes take place one of which is increased melanocyte stimulating hormone, MSH. This hormone causes excessive production of melanin pigments especially in the face and the abdominal region. It is a condition referred to as chloasma or the mask of pregnancy in common terms.

Another common cause of the condition is acne. As acne lesions begin to heal, the body reacts by producing melanin. The melanin produces dark patches and spots on the skin. Bringing the acne outbreaks in controls often helps take care of this problem. Excessive pigmentation may also be genetic in some cases. Some people have a natural predisposition to hyperpigmentation. The hormonal imbalances responsible for the disorder may also be hereditary in nature.

Excessive pigmentation may take one of two patterns: focal or diffuse. Focal pigments are those that are distributed in localized areas whereas those that are diffuse have a generalized form of distribution. The parts of the face most frequently involved include the cheekbones, lips and the forehead.

One of the most popular home remedies for the condition is almond paste. It is applied to the affected site and left to dry for about one hour before being rinsed off. Application is done about twice in a day (morning and evening). Results begin to sow within a week. A mixture of lemon and honey combined in the ration of 1:1 is also very effective. It is usually applied to the site for about 30 minutes. Other choices include aloe vera gel, castor oil, lime and papaya. It is important that one maintains good hydration.

In the event that the home remedies are ineffective, one may consider medical treatment. Hydroquinone cream which is available both over the counter as well as in the form of prescriptions is a commonly used drug. Application of the cream on the face helps to reduce the production of excess melanin. Caution should be taken so that the cream does not reach the normal part of the face as this may result in unwanted hypopigmentation. The effects are realized with a couple of weeks if it is applied twice daily.

Kojic acid is another effective treatment for hyperpigmentation on face. This chemical is derived from fungal organisms. It also works by controlling melanin production. It should be applied twice in a day. Others include glycolic acid, tretinoin, azelaic acid, topical glucocorticoids, licorine and alpha hydroxyl acids among others. Advanced cases may require the use of laser therapy. The general advice is that any form of treatment should be done in close consultation with a qualified dermatologist.




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