Latest news with #hyperpigmentation
Medical News Today
7 days ago
- Health
- Medical News Today
What to know about skin pigmentation disorders
There are two types of skin pigmentation disorders: hyperpigmentation, in which the skin produces too much melanin, and hypopigmentation, in which the skin produces too little pigmentation refers to the amount of color or 'pigment' in a person's skin. This differs according to the concentration of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes in the skin. Melanocytes produce melanin, which gives skin its involves darker spots or patches on the skin, whereas hypopigmentation involves lighter spots or of skin pigmentation disorders There are two main types of skin color changes in skin pigmentation disorders: hyperpigmentation and is where the skin's pigment-producing cells — melanocytes — produce too much of the pigment melanin. This causes darker spots or patches on the to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), examples of hyperpigmentation include:frecklessolar lentigines, also known as sun spots, age spots, or liver spotsmelasma, which typically develops as a result of hormonal changespost-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which can occur following acne or other inflammatory skin conditionsHypopigmentationAs the American Academy of Dermatology explains, hypopigmentation is where the skin's melanocytes produce less melanin than normal. This causes lighter spots or patches on the causes skin pigmentation disorders?Some changes in skin pigmentation may not be due to health conditions. For example, sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation. Similarly, medications or injuries to the skin may cause underlying cause of a skin pigmentation disorder may depend on the type of condition a person of hyperpigmentation disordersA 2023 review states that sun exposure is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation. However, hyperpigmentation disorders may have other underlying causes blue-gray or brown spots on a person's face or arms. It can occur due to sun exposure or hormonal changes, which may occur due to medications such as the birth control occurs when a person's skin remains darker than typical after a lesion heals. Injuries or skin conditions that may cause these lesions include:chemical exposure or burnsacnepsoriasisatopic dermatitisCauses of hypopigmentation disordersThe 2023 review suggests most hypopigmentation occurs as a result of prior skin trauma, such as from blisters, infections, or following conditions may also cause hypopigmentation:Albinism: Albinism is a rare genetic disorder that causes a lack of pigment in the skin, hair, and versicolor: Also called tinea versicolor, this common fungal skin infection occurs due to an overgrowth of yeast that usually lives harmlessly on the skin. It can cause hyper- or hypopigmented scaly alba: This condition causes hypopigmented lesions that tend to affect the arms, face, and upper torso. Most cases resolve in around a Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks melanocytes. This can cause one or more of the following symptoms: lighter spots or patches on the skin or inside the mouth or nostrilsa white streak in the hair on the head or whitening of the eyebrows or eyelashesloss of color in the iris of an eyehearing loss due to the loss of melanocytes inside the earHow do doctors diagnose skin pigmentation disorders?When diagnosing skin pigmentation disorders, a doctor will begin with a physical examination of the skin and may ask about a person's medical history and any family history of skin or dermatologists may also use a device called a Wood's light to help detect areas of hyperpigmented or hypopigmented skin. The device emits ultraviolet (UV) light that causes the skin to glow. Certain patterns of fluorescence can help a doctor diagnose specific pigmentation some cases, doctors may order additional tests to help confirm a diagnosis. For example, if a doctor suspects vitiligo, they may order blood tests to look for commonly associated are the treatment options for skin pigmentation disorders?The treatment for hypopigmentation disorders depends on the type. Some disorders, such as pityriasis alba, may resolve on their own. Others, such as vitiligo, may improve with sun protection and oral or topical to a 2023 review, the preferred method of treatment for skin pigmentation disorders is laser therapy. This treatment works by targeting and breaking down excess melanin in the skin to achieve a more uniform skin tone.A 2019 review suggests laser therapy and intense pulsed light therapy (IPLT) may help treat some forms of hyperpigmentation, such as solar lentigines and certain types of the authors caution that laser therapy and IPLT may be less effective at treating melasma and PIH. These treatments may also be less safe, particularly for people with darker skin tones, causing a higher risk of PIG, burns, scarring, or worsening of other skin pigmentation disorders, doctors may recommend a treatment plan that combines sun protection with topical medications, such as:hydroquinonetretinoin and a mild corticosteroidother medications, such as azelaic acid, kojic acid, or vitamin CPeople can speak with a doctor to learn the most suitable treatment for their skin treatment is not necessaryIn some cases, treatment for atypical pigmentation may not be medically necessary. However, if these changes in skin pigmentation affect a person's mental health or self-esteem, a doctor may recommend ways to cover the skin, including:cosmetics, such as foundationover-the-counter skin care productsself-tanning products, including creams or sprays»Learn more:How can people even their skin tone?When to contact a doctor People can speak with a doctor if they have any concerns about their skin to the AOCD, most types of hyperpigmentation are usually harmless, though for some people, they may cause cosmetic concerns. However, hypopigmentation can sometimes signal an underlying issue, such as an autoimmune disease like vitiligo. As such, people should contact a doctor if they notice lighter spots or patches on their a medication causes skin changes, a doctor may recommend stopping or changing the medication. However, people should never stop or change a medication without their doctor's asked questionsHow do skin pigmentation disorders appear on different skin tones?Hypopigmentation disorders, such as vitiligo, involve a lightening of the skin, regardless of a person's natural skin disorders may present differently depending on a person's natural skin tone and the cause of the pigment example, people with dark skin may notice skin spots or patches that are brown, gray, purple, or black. People with light skin may notice skin spots or patches that are pink, red, tan, or disorders, such as vitiligo, involve a lightening of the skin, regardless of a person's natural skin disorders may present differently depending on a person's natural skin tone and the cause of the pigment example, people with dark skin may notice skin spots or patches that are brown, gray, purple, or black. People with light skin may notice skin spots or patches that are pink, red, tan, or there any natural remedies for managing skin pigmentation disorders?According to a 2018 review, the following natural remedies may have the potential to help to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, but further research is necessary:azelaic acidsoylignin peroxidaseascorbic acidellagic acidlicorice extractsniacinamidemulberry People should speak with a healthcare professional before trying natural remedies on their to a 2018 review, the following natural remedies may have the potential to help to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, but further research is necessary:azelaic acidsoylignin peroxidaseascorbic acidellagic acidlicorice extractsniacinamidemulberry People should speak with a healthcare professional before trying natural remedies on their diet affect skin pigmentation disorders?Diet's effects on skin pigmentation disorders may depend on the condition a person to a 2022 review, most studies agree that a combination of vitamin B12, folic acid, and sun exposure can help restore skin pigment in cases of vitiligo. The review adds that there is some evidence to suggest zinc may also help to manage the effects on skin pigmentation disorders may depend on the condition a person to a 2022 review, most studies agree that a combination of vitamin B12, folic acid, and sun exposure can help restore skin pigment in cases of vitiligo. The review adds that there is some evidence to suggest zinc may also help to manage the skin pigmentation disorders, the skin produces too much or too little of the pigment melanin. Hyperpigmentation describes an overproduction of skin pigment. Examples include solar lentigines and melasma. Hypopigmentation describes an underproduction of skin pigment. The most common example is of these disorders are harmless, though they may cause cosmetic concerns. Some may also signal an underlying hormonal imbalance or autoimmune condition. Anyone with changes to their skin should contact a doctor to find the underlying cause.
Daily Mail
16-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Nobel Prize-winning chemist develops at-home peel that fades scars and pigmentation (and in as little as four uses)
A reparative overnight mask created by a Nobel Prize-winning chemist is delivering clinical results to hyperpigmentation and scarring in just four uses. Users of the Noble Panacea The Overnight Chronobiology Peel are waking up to resurfaced and renewed skin in a dramatically short period thanks to its precisely controlled release of a complex of AHAs and BHA for a strong yet gentle exfoliating and refining treatment. And with zero downtime. Noble Panacea The Overnight Chronobiology Peel (8 Doses) For a chemical peel at home, shoppers are turning to the Overnight Chronobiology Peel from Noble Panacea. The peel is an intensive, leave-on treatment that promises to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, pores and uneven skin tone. Powered by the patented OSMV™ technology, it deeply yet gently exfoliates to reveal renewed, glowing skin in the morning. It's the only chemical peel on the market that is actually calibrated to the skin's natural overnight biorhythm. £280 Shop Clinical results speak for themselves, with 100 per cent of users agreeing that skin was calm, soothed and comfortable the next morning The Overnight Chronobiology Peel from science-based beauty brand Noble Panacea is giving new meaning to the term 'beauty sleep'. Far from a bog-standard overnight mask, this intensive, leave-on overnight treatment is powered by patented OSMV Technology for a gradual, and precisely controlled release of a complex of AHAs and BHA for a strong yet gentle exfoliating and refining treatment. Helping you wake with resurfaced and refined skin, with zero redness or flakiness, this could be the beauty treatment that fast-tracks you to glowing skin this summer. Noble Panacea is the culmination of Sir Fraser Stoddart's 50 years of research in molecular chemistry. A high-tech approach to luxury skin care, the brand's products are centered around Stoddart's Organic Super Molecular Vessel™ technology. This notable bit of tech encapsulates active ingredients and is 10,000 times smaller than a skin cell which helps to deliver ingredients deep into the skin. The brand's Overnight Chronobiology Peel is one of the brand's most iconic innovations. A revolutionary type of sleeping mask, it helps to target the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, pores and uneven skin tone while you sleep to reveal renewed, glowing skin in the morning. Standing out from your typical face masks, this peel is the only chemical peel on the market that is actually calibrated to the skin's natural overnight biorhythm. In layman's terms, it releases a micro-dose of potent active ingredients in stages throughout the sleep cycle, calibrated with when the skin is most receptive to each ingredient. By controlling the amount of ingredients released, the mask helps to minimise irritation and maximising skin benefits, so you get all the benefits of a skin-renewing peel without the side effects. While admittedly an investment, the £280 Noble Panacea Overnight Chronobiology Peel is a more attainable way of reaping the benefits of a peel from home, and without salon costs. And according to users, the results are notable. By keeping powerful hero ingredients at a high concentration with maximum potency preserved, and released in perfect step with your natural circadian rhythms in the right order, the results are pretty jaw-dropping. In fact, 100 per cent of users in the brand's clinical trial saw improvement in their pigmentation after four uses while 81 per cent said acne or any appearance of scarring appear reduced. Noble Panacea, the only skincare brand created by a Nobel Prize-winning Chemist, is available to shop on Amazon Luxury in the UK.
CNA
12-05-2025
- Health
- CNA
What causes elbows and knees to darken? Skincare tips on dealing with hyperpigmentation
With the return of Y2K fashion in full swing – think low-rise jeans, crop tops and micro-minis – showing more skin is back in style. Suddenly, dark elbows and patchy knees feel a lot more noticeable when your 2000s pop princess-inspired outfit requires showing off your limbs. First and foremost: Darker elbows and knees are completely natural. The skin in these areas is naturally thicker, often drier, and takes on more friction than the rest of our bodies. For people with more melanin-rich skin, this darkening is a normal variation – not something that needs 'fixing'. However, if this is something you'd like to address – whether for aesthetic preference, comfort or simply as an act of self-care – here's how to show your elbows and knees some TLC. WHY DO ELBOWS AND KNEES GET DARKER? Elbows and knees do a lot of heavy lifting – literally. These joints are constantly in motion and often come into contact with rough or hard surfaces. Whether you're leaning on your desk, kneeling during workouts, or crawling around after a toddler, this repeated friction and pressure can lead to skin thickening, dryness, and ultimately, hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can happen when your skin responds to minor trauma or irritation by producing excess melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Over time, this can cause those areas to appear darker than the surrounding skin. People with deeper skin tones may notice this more, as their skin naturally produces more melanin and is more prone to post-inflammatory darkening. Neglect plays a role in the darkening too. Elbows and knees are often skipped in our skincare routines, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells, dryness and dullness that makes discolouration more visible. In some cases, darker patches may also be caused by underlying medical factors like hormonal imbalances like Addison's disease, inflammation, certain medications, a vitamin B12 deficiency or allergic reactions. If you notice sudden darkening, changes in texture, rashes, or fatigue alongside pigmentation, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. HOW TO BRIGHTEN HYPERPIGMENTED SKIN Unlike throwback fashion, good skin habits never go out of style. If you're looking to brighten your elbows and knees, the key is consistency, gentleness and patience. These spots didn't darken overnight, so they won't even out that quickly either. Here's how to care for your darkened elbows and knees: 1. EXFOLIATE GENTLY While scrubbing rough elbows and knees with grainy body scrubs or loofahs may feel satisfying in the moment, it can actually do more harm than good. Over-exfoliation causes micro tears, irritation, and inflammation – all of which can trigger even more pigmentation in these already-sensitive areas. Instead, opt for chemical exfoliants with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like lactic acid and glycolic acid, or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid. These actives work by gently dissolving dead skin cells and promoting even texture over time. Use them two to three times a week, and always follow up with a moisturiser and SPF. 2. HYDRATION IS KEY Dry, dull skin can make discolouration look more pronounced. Without proper hydration, your skin barrier becomes compromised, which can make it more prone to irritation from actives and environmental aggressors. Use rich moisturisers containing ceramides, shea butter, or urea to help soften rough patches and improve barrier function. Applying body lotion on damp skin (post-shower) can help to lock in hydration more effectively. For extra dry or thickened skin, consider body slugging – the K-beauty trick of applying an occlusive like petroleum jelly or a thick balm over your moisturiser to trap in hydration overnight. 3. INTRODUCE BRIGHTENING INGREDIENTS SLOWLY Once your skin is properly exfoliated and moisturised, it's time to bring in brightening products to reduce the appearance of excess pigmentation. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid and liquorice root extract, which are known for their brightening and anti-inflammatory properties. While you can use facial products on your body (no need to toss that serum that didn't work for your face), targeted body sticks containing these ingredients allow for more targeted application, making it easier to apply on small or curved areas without wasting product. If you're already using a brightening body lotion, you can layer a concentrated serum underneath to boost results. Start slow, especially if you're new to actives, then build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well. For areas like elbows and knees, applying brightening products once a day in the evening is often enough. 4. DON'T FORGET SUNSCREEN Yes, even on your knees and elbows. Sun exposure is a major trigger for pigmentation, especially when using exfoliating acids or brightening actives. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is non-negotiable if you're serious about fading dark spots. 5. CONSIDER PRESCRIPTION OPTIONS IF YOU'RE NOT SEEING RESULTS If you've been diligently exfoliating, hydrating and using brightening ingredients but still aren't seeing much improvement, don't be discouraged – some types of pigmentation run deeper and may require professional intervention. A dermatologist can assess the underlying cause and customise a treatment plan tailored to your skin type and needs. They may recommend prescription-strength topical treatments such as: Tretinoin (a powerful form of retinoid): Known for increasing cell turnover and encouraging collagen production, tretinoin helps fade hyperpigmentation over time while smoothing rough or thickened skin. It can also improve overall skin texture and tone. Hydroquinone: Known as one of the most effective ingredients for treating pigmentation, hydroquinone works by inhibiting melanin production. It's typically used short-term under medical supervision to avoid side effects like irritation or rebound pigmentation. Topical corticosteroids (eg hydrocortisone): These can reduce inflammation and are often prescribed in combination with other brightening agents to calm irritated or reactive skin. Custom compounded creams: Dermatologists may also prescribe tailor-made formulas that combine ingredients like retinoids, hydroquinone, azelaic acid and kojic acid in a single product for a synergistic effect. If your pigmentation is linked to hormonal imbalances or inflammatory skin conditions, your doctor might explore oral treatments as well. These may include hormonal medications, oral anti-inflammatories or nutritional supplements. 6. EXPLORE LASER AND IN-CLINIC TREATMENTS If topical treatments don't yield results or you're looking for a more targeted approach, you may want to explore laser or in-clinic procedures. These are best suited for persistent hyperpigmentation and are especially helpful if you've already ruled out underlying medical causes. Some common options include: Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers: These are often used for treating melasma or post-inflammatory pigmentation and can help break down excess melanin in the skin. Multiple sessions may be required, spaced several weeks apart. Fractional lasers or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): These resurfacing treatments can help improve both pigmentation and skin texture. While effective, they may not be suitable for all skin tones, especially deeper complexions, due to the risk of post-treatment pigmentation.
Vogue
08-05-2025
- Health
- Vogue
Hyperpigmented Skin? Why Tranexamic Acid Is The Ingredient To Know
It wasn't long ago that tranexamic acid was the reserve of medicine. Wielded by doctors for its blood clotting properties, it was found effective at halting hemorrhages, and is still used as an intervention in bleeding symptoms today. But a fortuitous mistake ushered the ingredient into mainstream skincare when a patient prescribed oral tranexamic acid experienced skin lightening as a side effect. Now, tranexamic acid (also denoted by TXA) can be found over the counter and almost everywhere you look. As a beauty editor with skin prone to hyperpigmentation, tranexamic acid serums have been a saving grace. To find out how tranexamic acid works so well, I asked experts for a full breakdown. Ahead, you'll find everything you need to know about the ingredient, from the ideal concentration to all the best tranexamic acid products to use. Debbie Thomas is a skin and laser expert, VIP facialist and the founder of Clinic. is a skin and laser expert, VIP facialist and the founder of Clinic. Dr Tatyana Lapa-Wright is an aesthetic doctor and the owner of Hardwick Clinic. What is tranexamic acid? 'Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine,' Dr. Lapa-Wright informs Vogue. It's not an acid in the conventional sense—it does not have exfoliating properties. But it does have brightening benefits on the skin. According to Thomas, tranexamic acid is used topically for treating pigmentation and inflammatory redness. 'It effectively reduces excess melanin production without bleaching or stripping the skin and is ideal for melasma, post-inflammatory pigmentation, and redness-prone skin.' How does tranexamic acid work on skin? Oral tranexamic acid is a controlled medicine, typically prescribed to help with menstrual symptoms or nosebleeds, though some dermatologists may prescribe the pills for melasma patients. Whether oral or topical, TXA works by inhibiting tyrosinase (an enzyme that triggers pigment production) to reduce the appearance of dark patches. Studies have shown that tranexamic acid can also reduce inflammation, which makes it helpful in the prevention and reduction of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Both of our experts add that TXA strengthens the skin barrier, evens skin tone, and can soothe redness when used as part of a dedicated routine. How to use tranexamic acid for hyperpigmentation: 'Apply tranexamic acid once daily (evening preferred), after cleansing and before moisturizer,' Thomas instructs. 'Avoid layering with strong acids or retinoids initially—use it on its own for two to three weeks before introducing other actives.' Per Dr. Lapa-Wright, beginners should start low and go slow, as TXA can be irritating on sensitive skin. And don't skip the sun protection, which Thomas says will protect your results: 'Use a broad spectrum SPF, and if it is tinted, even better.' How long does it take for tranexamic acid to work? Timelines given by our experts vary, but both agree that tranexamic acid offers 'gradual results, not overnight miracles.' On average, you can expect to notice visible improvements in 8 to 16 weeks with consistent use. What to look for in an effective tranexamic acid formula Optimal concentration : According to Thomas, effective tranexamic acid formulas will have TXA listed within the top half of the ingredients list, ideally at a 2 to 5% concentration. 'Higher isn't always better,' Dr. Lapa-Wright notes. : According to Thomas, effective tranexamic acid formulas will have TXA listed within the top half of the ingredients list, ideally at a 2 to 5% concentration. 'Higher isn't always better,' Dr. Lapa-Wright notes. Additional ingredients: Both experts recommend looking for TXA paired with complementary actives such as niacinamide, azelaic acid, and liquorice root, which safely enhance its effects. 'Avoid irritants like alcohol and fragrances, especially for sensitive skin.' Both experts recommend looking for TXA paired with complementary actives such as niacinamide, azelaic acid, and liquorice root, which safely enhance its effects. 'Avoid irritants like alcohol and fragrances, especially for sensitive skin.' Protective packaging: Per Thomas, look for airtight, opaque packaging that protects ingredient stability. Now you know what to look for and how best to introduce tranexamic acid into your skincare routine, you can try using the ingredient to get closer to your clear skin goals.
