Hyperpigmentation: Symptoms, Causes & Potential Solutions
What is Hyperpigmentation (Skin Discoloration)?
Hyperpigmentation is when patches of skin are darker than the surrounding area. It’s when your skin produces too much melanin, which is created by skin cells known as melanocytes, the pigment that gives skin its color.
5% of the world’s population has some form of hyperpigmentation.
You may see dark spots or patches on your face, hands or other parts of your body. They can be any size and shade. Though usually harmless, it can affect your confidence and make you feel self-conscious.
Want to know if you have hyperpigmentation? Book a skin check with a dermatologist today.
Hyperpigmentation Symptoms
Hyperpigmentation changes the appearance of your skin. It can occur in any part of your body and vary in size and intensity.
Let’s see the common symptoms you may experience in each area.
Hyperpigmentation On Face
Your face is the most visible area affected by hyperpigmentation. Look out for:
- Dark patches or spots on your cheeks, forehead or chin
- Uneven skin tone on your face
- Brown or grayish marks that don’t match your natural skin color
- Darker areas around your eyes or mouth
These may be flat and can be small freckle-like marks or larger patches. They may become more noticeable after sun exposure. If you have acne, you may see dark spots left behind after spots heal.
Hyperpigmentation On Legs
Leg hyperpigmentation is annoying especially during warmer months. Look out for:
- Dark patches on your shins or calves
- Uneven skin tone on your thighs
- Brown or reddish spots that don’t fade
- Darker areas around scars or old injuries
These may become more noticeable after shaving or waxing. You may also see increased pigmentation around insect bites or areas where you’ve had skin inflammation.
Hyperpigmentation Around Mouth
The area around your mouth is more prone to hyperpigmentation. Look out for:
- A dark ‘mustache’ above your upper lip
- Darker skin around the corners of your mouth
- Uneven coloring on your chin or lower cheeks
- Brown patches that extend from your lips outwards
This is more common in darker skin tones. It can worsen with sun exposure or hormonal changes.
Whether it’s due to sun exposure, hormonal changes, or past inflammation, we tailor solutions to your unique skin needs. Ready to restore a glowing, even complexion? Book a consultation at HAACH today and let us help you achieve radiant, clear skin.
Hyperpigmentation Causes
Hyperpigmentation occurs when your skin produces too much melanin resulting to dark patches. Many factors can trigger this excess melanin production from sun exposure to health conditions.
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is the number one cause of hyperpigmentation. When your skin absorbs UV rays, it produces more melanin to protect itself. This can lead to dark spots especially on your face, hands and arms.
Sunbathing, outdoor sports and even short walks can cause sun damage. The effects build up over time so you may not notice changes right away.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can inflame your skin and cause dark spots. Common culprits are:
- Food allergies
- Cosmetic products
- Medicines such as antimalarial drugs and tricyclic antidepressants
- Plants (like poison ivy)
The rash from an allergy can cause itching and swelling. As it heals, it may leave behind dark patches.
Birthmarks
Birthmarks are coloured spots you’re born with. They come in different types:
- Café-au-lait spots: Light brown patches
- Mongolian spots: Blue-gray marks, often on the lower back
- Port-wine stains: Pink or red patches, usually on the face
Most birthmarks are harmless but some may need medical check-ups. If you noticed that a birthmark changes size, shape or color, immediately see your GP.
Health Conditions
Some health conditions can affect your skin color. These are:
Adrenal Disorder such as Addison’s Disease
Addison’s disease is an adrenal disorder where the adrenal glands produce insufficient levels of cortisol, the hormone responsible for regulating various bodily functions. Low cortisol levels trigger the pituitary gland to increase the production of adrenocorticotropic hormone, which can stimulate melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. This overstimulation leads to hyperpigmentation, particularly around areas like the knuckles, elbows, knees, and inside the mouth. The darkening is often generalized and can affect the entire skin tone, causing a bronze or grayish appearance.
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a condition in which the body absorbs too much iron from food, leading to iron overload in organs and tissues. Excess iron can deposit in the skin and trigger the production of melanin, causing a bronze or grayish discoloration. This is referred to as “bronzing” of the skin and often becomes more pronounced on sun-exposed areas, such as the face and hands. This condition is sometimes mistaken for tanning, but it reflects an underlying metabolic issue related to iron accumulation.
Diabetes
In diabetes, one common skin manifestation is acanthosis nigricans, which causes dark, velvety patches of skin, typically in areas with skin folds such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Insulin resistance in diabetes may cause higher levels of insulin in the bloodstream, which stimulates skin cells, including melanocytes, to grow more rapidly, resulting in thickened and darkened areas of skin. Inflammation and poor blood circulation in diabetes can also contribute to skin discoloration, particularly in areas prone to friction.
Vitamin Deficiency
Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12 and folic acid, can lead to hyperpigmentation. Vitamin B12 is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, and a lack of it can lead to the accumulation of melanin in certain areas, causing dark patches. Folic acid is important for cell repair and regeneration, and a deficiency can result in skin that heals more slowly, making it more prone to discoloration after injury or inflammation. In severe cases, long-term vitamin deficiency can cause widespread skin pigmentation issues.
Dermatological Conditions (Acne, Atopic Dermatitis)
Conditions such as acne and atopic dermatitis (eczema) can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Acne lesions or inflamed areas from dermatitis can leave behind dark spots or patches after they heal. This happens because inflammation triggers melanocytes to produce excess melanin in response to skin damage. The affected areas may appear as dark spots (brown, black, or even purple, depending on skin tone), which can persist long after the original condition has subsided.
Skin Injury or Inflammation
Hyperpigmentation can occur after any skin injury or inflammation, such as cuts, burns, insect bites, or even harsh skin treatments. When the skin heals from an injury, the inflammation can cause melanocytes to overproduce melanin in the affected area, resulting in a darkened spot known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This type of pigmentation can vary in intensity depending on the severity of the inflammation and the individual’s skin type. Those with darker skin tones are generally more prone to PIH due to the higher levels of melanin in their skin.
Pregnancy (Melasma)
During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone, can stimulate melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin), leading to melasma, also known as the “mask of pregnancy.” Melasma typically appears as brown or grayish patches on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Exposure to sunlight can exacerbate the condition because UV radiation further activates melanocytes. Melasma often fades after pregnancy but may persist in some cases.
Thyroid Problems
Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), can also lead to hyperpigmentation. In hypothyroidism, reduced thyroid hormone levels can slow down the body’s metabolism, which can affect skin cell turnover and melanin production. As a result, some individuals develop dark patches, particularly on areas like the face, hands, or neck. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, may also cause uneven pigmentation due to imbalances in other hormones, such as those related to stress, which can affect melanocyte activity.
If you see unexplained skin changes, see your GP. They can help you find out what’s causing it and what to do about it.
Infection
Skin infections can sometimes cause hyperpigmentation. As your body fights the infection, it produces more melanin.
Common infections that can cause dark spots are:
- Fungal infections (like tinea versicolor)
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections (like chickenpox)
These dark spots usually fade once the infection clears, but sometimes they may linger.
Genetics
Genetic factors can influence how much melanin your body produces. People with certain skin types, especially those with darker skin tones, may naturally have more active melanocytes (the cells responsible for producing melanin), making them more prone to hyperpigmentation.
Also, conditions like melasma or freckles can be inherited, increasing the likelihood of developing uneven skin pigmentation.
Exposure to heavy metals (iron, arsenic, gold, lead)
Some heavy metals can deposit in the skin and interact with melanin production, leading to hyperpigmentation. For example, iron can cause a condition called hemosiderin deposition, where iron accumulates in the skin, causing brownish discoloration.
Arsenic and lead can disrupt cellular processes and increase melanin production, causing dark patches on the skin. Chronic exposure to these metals can induce oxidative stress, which may also exacerbate pigmentation issues.
Tobacco smoke
Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can affect skin health. It can cause oxidative stress and inflammation, which damage skin cells and can lead to an increase in melanin production.
Tobacco can also impair blood flow and decrease the skin’s ability to heal, making hyperpigmentation more likely to develop after skin irritation or injury. The toxins in tobacco smoke also accelerate the aging process, which may contribute to pigmentation issues.
Injury Or Trauma (Like Burns Or Blisters)
When your skin gets injured, it can produce more melanin. This can happen with:
- Burns (from heat or chemicals)
- Cuts and scrapes
- Blisters
- Insect bites
The dark spots that remain are a type of PIH. They usually fade over time but it can take months or even years.
Skin Disorders
Some skin conditions can cause dark patches. Common offenders are:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
- Psoriasis
- Acne
These can inflame your skin and leave dark spots after they heal. This type of hyperpigmentation is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
For example, if you have acne, you may see dark marks where the spots used to be. These marks can last for months even after the acne clears up.
Lupus
Lupus-related hyperpigmentation is primarily due to the inflammation caused by the disease, along with increased photosensitivity and damage to the skin that leads to excessive melanin production.
Skin Cancer
Some types of skin cancer can look like dark spots. Not all dark spots are cancerous but it’s good to know the signs.
Look out for:
- Spots that grow or change shape
- Moles with uneven edges or colors
- Any new growths on your skin
If you see these signs, see your GP right away. Early detection is key to skin cancer treatment.
Medications
Some medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun or cause dark spots. These are:
- Birth control pills
- Antibiotics (like tetracyclines)
- Heart medicines
- Cancer drugs
- Amiodarone
- Hydroquinone
- Antimalarials
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Phenothiazines
- Some chemotherapy drugs (like bleomycin, cyclophosphamide, busulfan etc)
- Some tricyclic antidepressants
- Some heavy metals (like arsenic, silver, gold, and mercury, which can be poisonous)
If you notice skin changes after starting a new medication, talk to your doctor. Don’t stop taking prescribed drugs without medical advice.
Chemicals
Some chemicals can irritate your skin and cause dark spots. These may be found in:
- Cleaning products
- Industrial chemicals
- Some cosmetics
For example, hair dyes can sometimes cause a reaction that leaves dark patches on your scalp or face.
Hyperpigmentation Types
Hyperpigmentation comes in many forms, each with its own characteristics and causes. These different types can occur on different parts of the body and can be caused by sun exposure, hormones or skin injuries.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when elevated hormone levels in your body trigger an increase in melanin production.
Hyperpigmentation Types
Sunspots, also called solar lentigines or liver spots, are flat brown spots on sun exposed skin. They’re common in people over 50 but can appear earlier.
These spots are caused by years of sun exposure. They often appear on the face, hands and arms. Sunspots are usually harmless but a sign of sun damage.
Using sunscreen and limiting sun exposure can prevent them.
There is also non-solar lentigines, which are not caused by sun exposure, and can also occur and are linked to hereditary conditions like Peutz-Jeghers syndrome.
Freckles
Freckles are small, light brown spots on the skin. They’re most common on the face, arms and shoulders. Sun exposure brings them out more.
Fair skinned people with red or blonde hair are more prone to freckles. They often appear in childhood and may fade in winter. Freckles are harmless but can make some people feel self conscious.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs after skin injury or inflammation. It can happen from acne, eczema or other skin conditions. PIH appears as dark spots or patches where the skin was damaged.
PIH can affect anyone but is more noticeable in people with darker skin. The spots can be light brown to black. They often fade over time but can take months or years.
Gentle skincare and sun protection can prevent PIH.
Melasma
Melasma causes brown or gray-brown patches on the face. It usually appears on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or from birth control pills can cause melasma. Sun exposure makes it worse.
Women are more likely to get melasma than men. It’s sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy”. The patches can be big and uneven. They may fade after pregnancy or when you stop hormonal medications.
Periorbital Hyperpigmentation
Periorbital hyperpigmentation causes dark circles under the eyes. It can make you look tired or older. Many things can cause it:
- Genetics
- Lack of sleep
- Allergies
- Sun exposure
The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate. This makes dark circles more noticeable. Good sleep, sun protection and gentle skincare can help manage it.
Maturational Hyperpigmentation
Maturational hyperpigmentation is a part of aging. As we get older our skin can become uneven in color. This often shows up as darker patches or spots.
It’s most common on sun-exposed areas like the face and hands. Genetics play a role in how much maturational hyperpigmentation you’ll get. Sun protection can slow it down.
Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans causes dark, velvety patches on the skin. It often appears in body folds like the neck, armpits and groin. The skin may feel thicker than normal.
This type of hyperpigmentation can be a sign of insulin resistance or hormonal issues. It’s more common in people who are overweight or have diabetes.
Treating the underlying cause can improve acanthosis nigricans. Weight loss and lifestyle changes may help.
Hyperpigmentation Diagnosis
- Initial Exam: A trained professional examines the skin to assess the area, looking at color, size and pattern of pigmentation.
- Medical History and Lifestyle: The clinician asks about sun exposure, medications, recent skin treatments and hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy or birth control).
- Wood’s Light: Use of a Wood’s lamp that shines UV light on the skin, to determine depth of pigmentation and if it’s superficial or deep.
- Optional Biopsy: In some cases, a small skin sample may be taken and examined under the microscope to rule out other conditions.
- Additional Tests: Depending on initial findings, further tests like blood tests might be conducted to identify any underlying health issues contributing to hyperpigmentation.
Are you ready to take the first step toward clearer, more even-toned skin? Book your consultation today at HAACH and let our experts guide you through a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Hyperpigmentation Treatments Offered by HAACH
Blue Sapphire Diamond Glow Facial
Treat yourself to the luxury of the Blue Sapphire Diamond Glow Facial, 90 minutes of our signature Blue Sapphire with restorative ingredients. This facial boosts cell renewal and gives you a glow. Plumps and hydrates the skin, reduces pigmentation, smooths fine lines and wrinkles and lifts for a more firm appearance. Suitable for all skin types, multiple sessions recommended for desired results.
Who Should Try This
This treatment is perfect for those seeking to hydrate and plump their skin while reducing pigmentation and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.
MoxiReju Facial Therapy
MoxiReju Facial Therapy is a game changer that combines traditional healing with modern skincare for full facial rejuvenation. 90 minutes of moxa magic that boosts circulation and cell renewal. Addresses facial congestion, dullness, nasolabial folds, pigmentation, poor circulation and water retention. Suitable for all skin types, a series recommended for optimal results.
Who Should Try This
You should try MoxiReju Facial Therapy if you are someone looking to revitalize their skin through a unique blend of traditional healing and modern skincare techniques.
Whether you’re looking to brighten, firm, or smooth, our treatments are tailored to bring out your best skin. Book your session now and start your journey to flawless skin.
Other Hyperpigmentation Treatment Options in the Market
- Microneedling: This procedure involves the use of tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting skin renewal. Over time, microneedling can help fade dark spots and improve skin texture. Although microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment, it does require multiple sessions for noticeable improvement and can cause temporary redness and swelling.
- Azelaic Acid: Extremely beneficial for hyperpigmentation, particularly for skin that is prone to acne. Melanocytes, the cells that create melanin, are the target of azelaic acid, which inhibits excessive pigment production. Azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory qualities that calm the skin and prevent future outbreaks. It also balances out skin tone. By incorporating azelaic acid into your skincare routine, you can minimise acne and hyperpigmentation and get smoother, clearer, skin. This dual-purpose remedy addresses both the underlying cause and manifestations of skin discoloration.
- B-Resorcinol, also known as butyl resorcinol: It is a highly effective ingredient for decreasing melanin production. It functions by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin formation. This powerful compound is also the primary active ingredient in the Eucerin White Therapy line.
- Intense pulse light therapy (IPL): IPL therapy is a form of non-ablative (fractional) laser treatment, often referred to as a photofacial. It promotes collagen growth within the dermis and typically requires multiple sessions for optimal results.This treatment addresses overall pigmentation concerns, particularly effective for flat spots. Additionally, IPL therapy may help diminish the appearance of wrinkles, spider veins, and enlarged pores.
All these treatments can provide results but they aren’t always the best options for everyone. That is why at HAACH, we take a more holistic and customized approach to skincare, blending advanced technology with proven Eastern techniques that focus on restoring your skin’s natural balance.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment Cost in Singapore
While prices may vary from clinic to clinic, here’s roughly what to expect.
- MoxiReju Facial Therapy: SGD 250 – SGD 600
- Blue Sapphire Diamond Glow Facial: SGD 250 – SGD 600
- Prescription Lightening Creams: SGD 50 – SGD 150 per tube
- Chemical Peels: SGD 100 – SGD 600 per session
- Laser Therapies: SGD 200 – SGD 1,000 per session
- Microneedling: SGD 200 – SGD 700 per session
Are There Subsidies for Hyperpigmentation
Treatment In Singapore?
Interested in treating your hyperpigmentation, but worried about the cost involved? Don’t worry: at HAACH, you have the option to split your bill into 3 interest-free payments via Atome. Typically, hyperpigmentation treatments in Singapore are not covered by insurance as they are non-essential. However, coverage may be available if the pigmentation is caused by a medical condition or causes significant psychological distress. Check with your insurance provider to see if this is covered under your policy.
Why Choose HAACH To Remove Pigmentation?
Exceptional Service
At HAACH we go above and beyond in service to get you flawless skin and a relaxing experience. Our commitment is evident in our 4.5-star average Google rating from 465 reviews across 4 locations in Singapore.
Multiple Awards Won
HAACH has won numerous awards for service for 3 years running from 2020 including the Enterprise 50 Award and various beauty awards such as Elle’s It List 2018 and Harper’s Bazaar Spa Award 2019. These awards show our dedication to quality.
Experienced Team
Our beauty therapists are trained and experienced in Western techniques such as microdermabrasion and Eastern practices like Gua Sha. This unique approach means treatments are tailored to you.
Choose HAACH for flawless, glowing skin and experience the difference. Book your consultation today — because your skin deserves nothing less than the best.
Preventing Hyperpigmentation
To prevent sun-related dark spots:
- Use sunscreen daily (SPF 30+): Ideally, a physical blocking sunscreen, preferably with zinc oxide as the main active ingredient with at least an SPF 30 to 50 with a broad spectrum coverage. Protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can cause dark spots by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
- Wear hats and long sleeves: Physical barriers like wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing shield your skin from direct sunlight, reducing the risk of UV-induced hyperpigmentation.
- Seek shade between 10 am and 4 pm: During these hours, the sun’s rays are the strongest. Staying in the shade helps minimize UV exposure that can lead to hyperpigmentation.
To prevent allergy-related hyperpigmentation:
- Know your triggers: Identifying and avoiding substances that cause allergic reactions can prevent skin inflammation, which often leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Use gentle skincare products: Harsh ingredients can irritate sensitive skin, exacerbating discoloration. Opt for mild, hypoallergenic products to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation from allergies.
- See a doctor for severe reactions: Professional treatment for allergic reactions can prevent the inflammation from worsening, reducing the likelihood of lingering dark marks.
To prevent marks from injury or trauma:
- Treat injuries quickly: Proper care of cuts, burns, and other injuries helps the skin heal faster and reduces the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Keep wounds clean and moist: Moisture supports healing by keeping the skin barrier intact, while cleanliness prevents infections that can lead to scarring and dark spots.
- Don’t pick at scabs or blisters: Picking at healing skin can delay recovery and increase the risk of permanent discoloration from the trauma.
To protect your skin:
- Wear gloves when using harsh chemicals: Gloves act as a barrier, preventing chemical burns or irritations that could lead to darkening of the skin.
- Do a patch test before trying new cosmetics: Testing new products on a small area ensures that you don’t have an adverse reaction, preventing potential hyperpigmentation from allergic responses.
- Rinse your skin if it comes into contact with irritants: Immediate rinsing helps reduce irritation and inflammation, minimizing the chance of dark marks developing after exposure to harsh substances.
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FAQs
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Sun exposure, hormonal changes and skin injuries can cause hyperpigmentation. Certain medications can also cause dark spots. Inflammation from acne or other skin conditions can also cause dark spots.
Can Hyperpigmentation be Removed?
Yes, many treatments can fade dark spots. Topical creams, chemical peels, intense pulsed light and laser therapy are options. Results vary and some treatments may take time to show effect.
What Does Pigmentation Look Like?
Pigmentation appears as darker patches or spots on your skin. These can be brown, gray or black. Size and shape vary from small freckles to larger patches.
What is the Best Treatment for Pigmentation?
The best treatment depends on your skin type and the cause of pigmentation. Topical creams, chemical peels and laser treatments are options. A dermatologist can advise what’s best for you.
Which Vitamin is Good for Pigmentation?
Vitamin C is often recommended for pigmentation. It can brighten skin and reduce dark spots. You can find it in many skincare products.
Does Vitamin C Help With Hyperpigmentation?
Yes, vitamin C helps with hyperpigmentation. It’s an antioxidant that brightens skin and inhibits melanin production. Regular use can help fade dark spots over time.
What’s the Difference Between Pigmentation and Hyperpigmentation?
Pigmentation is your skin’s natural color. Hyperpigmentation is when parts of your skin become darker than the surrounding areas due to excess melanin production.
Does Hyperpigmentation cause any symptoms?
Aside from dark spots, hyperpigmentation typically doesn’t cause any other symptoms. If you notice spots on your skin accompanied by additional symptoms, consult your primary care provider or a dermatologist.
How long will Hyperpigmentation treatment results show?
Overnight results shouldn’t be expected. Treatments may take several weeks to show noticeable improvements, so consistency, patience, and persistence are key to achieving desired outcomes.
What works best for each skin tone?
Everyone has a different skin tone and skin tone influences the effectiveness and duration of hyperpigmentation treatments. According to Dr. Cynthia Cobb, While people with fair, medium, and dark skin tones can use similar therapies, individuals with darker skin often require more time for results.
- Fair skin generally responds well to most hyperpigmentation treatments.
- Medium skin tones may benefit from options like chemical peels and microdermabrasion.
- Darker skin can find success with glycolic acid, kojic acid, over-the-counter lightening creams, microdermabrasion, and lower-strength chemical peels. Laser treatments can also be effective but should be used at lower intensities over multiple sessions.
Topical treatments typically take longer to show visible results, so patience is essential with any option.
Should I ever seek medical care for hyperpigmentation?
You should visit your GP, such as a dermatologist, if your skin is:
- Red.
- Hot to the touch.
- Itchy.
- Painful.
- Leaking blood, pus or any other substances.
Medical References
Nautiyal, Avni, and Sarika Wairkar. “Management of Hyperpigmentation: Current Treatments and Emerging Therapies.” Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research, vol. 34, no. 6, June 2021, pp. 1000–14, doi:10.1111/pcmr.12986.
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