Hyperpigmentation/Melasma/Age & Dark Spots/Solar Lentigines

The darkening occurs when an excess of melanin, the brown pigment forms deposits in the skin. Those who are of darker skin tones are naturally more susceptible to dark spots or hyperpigmentation as the skin is rich with melanin. Hormonal or trauma can trigger an increase in melanin production making people more susceptible to hyperpigmentation.

Melasma is differentiated from hyperpigmentation mainly by is cause. Melasma is usually caused in part by hormonal changes such as pregnancy within the body and is often deeper in the skin making it somewhat more difficult to treat vs hyperpigmentation.

Men are also susceptible to melasma and it is believed that sun exposure can aggravate the condition. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is caused by trauma to the skin typically following surgery or as a result of conditions such as acne.

Regardless of the source of hyperpigmentation and melasma these conditions can have an impact and affect your self-esteem particularly when on the face where it can be difficult to hide.