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Increased melanin leads to hyperpigmentation and it is nearly always caused through overexposure to the harmful ultra violet rays of the sun. Melanin actually absorbs these rays so as to protect the skin from harm but when it does so it can result in freckles and sun spots or age spots. Other areas of the skin that might already be darker can become even more so and more noticeable. Age spots are actually one of the most common forms of the condition and most people start to notice them appearing once they have reached the age of forty. This happens around that age because it is then that the body is supplying ever smaller amounts of melanin and so is not able to successfully and effectively fight off the ultra violet rays of the sun in the way in which it used to do. Very often doctors will refer to hyperpigmentation as solar lentigino and this is a benign skin condition indicative of sun damage. More often than not the condition will appear on the face or the hands since these are the areas of the body that are generally exposed more to the sun's harmful UV rays. Of course age spots or sun spots can occur on any part of the body and can be found on the back, chest, and even on the feet. If you have uneven, dark patches on your face, hands, or elsewhere on the body there is good news because it can be removed with treatment. In the treatment of the condition the darkened areas of the skin are targeted. Sometimes it can occur not only through overexposure to the sun but also as a result of hormones, injuries, medications, acne, etc. Melasma is oftentimes referred to as the mask of pregnancy because it occurs due to the hormonal changes that women experience when they are expecting a baby. Treatment for the condition is based upon the cause of it as well as what you wish to achieve through the treatment and your individual skin type. The first course of action one would need to take is to consult with either a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist so that the precise cause of the discoloration can be ascertained. After your medical history has been obtained the doctor or dermatologist will examine the area to determine that it is in fact a non-cancerous discoloration and then suggest a treatment based upon their findings. You need to understand what the risks of the treatment options are as well as what you will expect to pay. Do not neglect to enquire about the time it will take for you to recover as some treatments procedures take longer to recover from than others. Usually the treatments that are employed in removing hyperpigmentation involve such things as bleaching creams although you might also need to review and change your daily skincare routine. You might need to do nothing more than change the medication you might be taking to one that does not affect your skin. On the other hand the treatment that the plastic surgeon or dermatologist will recommend might be somewhat more invasive. Some treatment options * Hydroquinone This is a bleaching agent that actually blocks melanin and is available over the counter. You will find it available in various strengths from mild to strong in which case a prescription will be required. There are times when this is combined with other products in order to provide the desired results. Some known side effects include irritation, hypopigmentation which is a diminished pigmentation, increased pigmentation especially if you do not also make use of a sunscreen, black spots or ochronosis which results after extended use. To reduce the chances of side effects like these you will need to adhere to all your doctor's specifications and instructions. * Retin-A Often prescribed to be used in conjunction with Hydroquinone it is obtained from Vitamin A. It works by exfoliating the skin thereby promoting new skin cell growth. You will find it available in various strengths as well. * Chemical Peels Usually complications resulting from this treatment option are fairly rare when they are carried out by a suitably qualified individual. However there are risks involved from infections to scarring. Not every person is suitable to have a chemical peel performed and you will need to discuss this with your doctor who will determine whether you are a candidate or not based upon your medical condition and history. You can find out a lot more about hyperpigmentation at my website: http://www.naturalbeautyandskincare.com/ I will introduce you to a 100% natural product range that is effective and which you can safely use to address this and other issues without worrying about harmful chemicals. Brought to you by Kalpana Rajagopalan - strongly supporting natural skincare products and supplements.
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