Hyperpigmentation & Hypopigmentation - How To Handle It?

Hyperpigmentation can be defined as the condition in which excess production of melanin causes the appearance of blemishes and dark spots on the skin. Hormonal changes, too much of sun exposure, acne and faulty skin treatment are some of the factors which trigger hyperpigmentation of the skin.

Treating hyperpigmentation:
Many dermatologists recommend IPL or Intense Pulse Light Treatment as one of the most effective remedies for hyperpigmentation. Chemical peels like phenol peel or TCA peel and laser peel are also very effective against skin pigmentation. However, there are also some simple and easy home-remedies which can help you get rid of the skin blemishes.

1. Application of raw lemon juice on the skin surface helps to bleach the skin and minimize the dark spots. Raw potato also works well against blemishes and dark spots.
2. The enzyme called ‘catecholase’ present in potato helps in lightening the skin tone by removal of spots.
3. You can prepare a mask out of a few Vitamin E capsules and apply it on the skin.
4. Just mix the contents of 2-3 capsules with a spoonful of castor oil and apply it on your face before going to bed.
5. Apple cider vinegar, aloe vera and turmeric are also some very popular home remedies which can minimize the effects of hyperpigmentation.
6. Apart from these, you can also make use of topical skin lightening creams which contain retinoid, Vitamin C, kojic acid and hydroquinone.

Hypopigmentation
Hypopigmentation is a condition where there is a reduction in the normal amount of melanin in the skin. Some of the most common causes of hypopigmentation are burns, illness and injury. This condition which is marked by a loss of skin coloring is more common in people with darker skin tone.

1. Topical ointments like TriLuma and Hydroquinone are very effective against hypopigmentation. They help to even out the skin tone by bleaching the entire skin surface.
2. Ginger is known to have excellent effects against hypopigmentation. Recent research has established that the application of ginger root can help you get rid of all the hypo-pigmented scars. Take some grated ginger root and dab it on the affected area. Repeat this twice a day for the quickest results.
3. IPL or Intense Pulse Light Treatment is often prescribed by dermatologists as a remedy for hypopigmentation.
4. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are also known to have some beneficial effects.

However, some cases of hypopigmentation are totally unresponsive to medications. In such cases, the best option is to hide the de-pigmented area with some sort of makeup.