Introduction
Pigment spots appearing on the face may be brought about by hyperpigmentation, a common skin problem that is in turn caused by the skin producing too much melanin. Other things that can cause hyperpigmentation include sun exposure, aging, and scarring, to mention but a few.
Many dark spots don’t cause any harm to the body. However, if you want to reduce the appearance of pigmentflecken on your face, there are several topical treatments you can try. In this article, we focus on dark spots brought about by hyperpigmentation. We will also tell you what to consider when choosing a product gegen pigmentflecken. Continue reading to learn more.
Choosing a treatment
The type of product you choose to fight gegen pigmentflecken will depend on several factors. Before you choose a treatment for your dark spots, keep in mind the following:
Skin tone
Your skin tone determines the type of product to treat hyperpigmentation. if you have a darker skin tone, you should especially be more careful when choosing hyperpigmentation treatments. The reason is that choosing a highly concentrated treatment or the wrong product can lead to the lightening of other areas of your skin. You also risk aggravating your problem.
We checked the AAD (American Academy of Dermatology) website and found the following recommendations:
- Glycolic acid
- 2% hydroquinone
- Kojic acid
- Azelaic acid
- Vitamin C and,
- Retinoids (such as adapalene gel, tarazotene, retinol, and tretinoin)
Contact a dermatologist who specialized in treating dark spots in dark skin to advise you on the best course of treatment.
Underlying conditions
Sometimes, your hyperpigmentation could be a result of an underlying skin condition. In such a case, it would be more prudent to first address this issue to prevent the appearance of pigmentflecken.
If, for example, a person’s PIH results from acne breakouts, treatment can aim at fading pigmentation and also preventing acne/acne scarring. Some of the treatments could be:
- Retinoids, which can be used orally or topically
- BHAs not only fade discoloration but also help in the treatment of acne
- Lifestyle or diet changes
Sun damage
If your dark spots were caused by sun damage, the treatment routine should include adding sunscreen to your skincare regimen. Sunscreen prevents existing hyperpigmentation from being darkened further and also protects you against more UV damage.
Your skin tone notwithstanding, you should develop a habit of wearing sunscreen every day. When choosing a sunscreen, the AAD recommends that you pay attention to the following:
- It should have a sun protective factor (SPF) of 30 and above
- Should be water-resistant
- Should protect you against both UVA and UVB rays.
Vitamin C serum may be incredibly helpful when it comes to the treatment of sun damage. According to a 2017 study, vitamin C works great in preventing the formation of melanin. it also protects the skin from aging prematurely as a result of being exposed to ultraviolet rays.
Medications
Certain oral or topical medications have been found to aggravate or cause hyperpigmentation. That is why experts advise that before you use a medication; check the label to see if this is one of the potential side effects. Ask your doctor to prescribe another one if you find that the medication you are using can cause hyperpigmentation.
Once you have eliminated the cause of your dark spots, it can take about 6-12 months to permanently fade your existing dark spots. However, if your spots are very dark, it may require longer for them to fade away.
Hormonal changes
There is little we can do to avoid dark spots that are caused by hormonal changes. But mild discoloration tends to go away with time especially if you identify and eliminate the cause.
In the case of a pregnant person, for example, the marks will begin fading after she gives birth.
Melasma isn’t always easy to treat. It refers to a more serious type of hyperpigmentation that results from hormonal changes. It can usually recur after fading if the person is exposed to the sun.
Pregnant or lactating mothers should consult their doctors first before they use any hyperpigmentation treatment. This ensures that the procedure or treatment they choose is safe for the mother and for the baby.
Things to avoid
Not all skin-lightening treatments are safe. Some can be incredibly dangerous. For instance, the American Academy of Dermatologists warns people against applying liquid bleach to the skin. It can cause significant burns.
Also, some skin-lightening treatments are laden with unlisted ingredients, for example, steroids, that should not be used without medical supervision. Some even have mercury in them, a highly toxic compound.
Some of the names that mercury can appear under include:
- Mercuric
- Quicksilver
- Cinnabar
- Hydrargyri oxydum rubrum
- Calomel
When purchasing a product to use gegen pigmentflecken, make sure you buy from reputable online stores or companies. Another safe place to obtain your hyperpigmentation treatment is your dermatologist.
Even if you are sure you are using a safe product, it is still important to stick to the instructions as indicated on the product label or by your physician. Do not use any product more frequently than the doctor advises.
In case you notice any side effects, discontinue the use of the product immediately and talk to your doctor to prescribe a different treatment.
Conclusion
Most cases of hyperpigmentation are harmless and will disappear on their own after some time. For some that are more stubborn, there are several OTC and prescription meds to fade the discolored areas safely. Always make it a habit to consult your dermatologist before you use a certain treatment especially if you are pregnant or lactating. They should be in a position to advise you on the best treatment based on factors like the cause of your pigmentflecken or skin type. If your dark spots multiply, grow, or change, report this to your doctor immediately.
