Even if you might not be familiar with the term hyperpigmentation, you probably know it more commonly by terms like “dark spots,” “acne scars,” or “post-blemish marks.”
Hyperpigmentation basically refers to when parts of the skin become darker in color compared to the surrounding skin. They can appear as tan, brown, or dark brown spots on the skin, depending on the skin tone. While these spots are harmless, you may also not really want them to stick around.
But, unlike acne spots, hyperpigmentation may take a bit longer to treat. While you can apply a pimple patch on a pimple and see it disappear overnight, it doesn’t work the same for dark spots.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when some type of injury or damage to the skin, like a burn, rash, or acne triggers excess melanin (pigment) production, resulting in a dark spot.
For example, if you’ve ever popped a pimple then you’ll likely have noticed a mark left behind on the skin after the spot has healed. When you pop a pimple, you create a small injury to the skin which can result in hyperpigmentation. Similar to darkened patches left behind after your scraped knee has healed, the popped pimple may leave a dark spot.
Other factors can also contribute to the darkening of existing dark spots. If you tend to go outside without sun protection then you’ll notice any patches of hyperpigmentation exposed to the sun starting to get a bit darker.
Think about when you’re sun tanning. You’ll usually tan a bit darker once you get out of the sun after a few hours. But the same applies to dark spots if you don’t adequately cover them up and apply sunscreen.
How to treat hyperpigmentation
As mentioned above, treating hyperpigmentation takes time. One of the methods for brightening hyperpigmentation includes skincare. Some skincare treatments, like serums or creams, contain ingredients that help improve the appearance of dark spots.
Some of the ingredients to look out for include: Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, and Vitamin C which help to brighten dark spots and fade them over time. These ingredients help with hyperpigmentation through a process that helps reduce melanin activity (which is responsible for the darkening of the skin).
Others like Retinols, AHAs, and BHAs help by exfoliating the skin, which basically means they remove the dead skin cells on the top layer of skin to help reveal the fresh, brighter complexion underneath.
These ingredients help fade dark spots over time with consistent use. The important thing is to be consistent especially as it takes time to see visible results.
But, if you’ve tried the skincare route and it doesn’t seem to work no matter how consistent you are, sometimes in-office treatments may be the way to go, like chemical peels or laser treatment. But, of course, always consult a dermatologist first.
The patch for hyperpigmentation
While hydrocolloid patches are best known for their use on pimples, some types of hydrocolloid patches can be used on dark spots, particularly the ones with microneedles.
Our Dark Spot Brightening Patch helps improve the look of dark spots through the use of brightening ingredients like Niacinamide and Green Tea.
Made with over 165+ microneedles, the patch delivers the brightening effects of these ingredients straight to the source. Plus the added Hyaluronic Acid keeps the spot hydrated so you don’t have to worry about dryness afterward.
The best way to use the patch is to apply a patch, preferably overnight, for at least 6 to 10 hours. Repeat this process at least 2 to 3 times a week for two weeks to achieve the best results.
But, remember, patience and consistency is key when treating dark spots.
