Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is the production of excess melanin causing dark spots on the skin. Age spots, liver spots, freckles, sun spots, pregnancy mask are all types of hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of skin where an excess of melanin has been produced and formed deposits, causing skin patches that appear darker than the surrounding skin.

 Common causes of skin hyperpigmentation include:

• Sun exposure
• Hormonal changes
• Heredity
• Acne
• Botched skin treatments

In situations where hyperpigmentation is caused by acne, botched skin treatment, or some other cause of skin inflammation, it is known as PIH, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

The darker your skin, the more susceptible it is to hyperpigmentation. Darker skins have more melanin and when there is any type of trauma the skin will create extra melanin in the area affected. AHA acids help to (break up) the melanin to create a more even skin tone.
AHA's include: Glycolic, Lactic, Salicylic etc... The molecular structure of these AHA's are all different so   depending on the level of color in your skin will determine which AHA is right for you. Consult your skin care professional.   

 Typically, hyperpigmentation is a harmless skin condition, however if moles or other possible signs of skin cancer appear, they should be checked by a dermatologist.