How Do I Reduce Hyperpigmentation from Acne?

One way to reduce hyperpigmentation from acne is to apply topical creams and medications that have lightening ingredients. Essential oils and extracts from plants can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation. Another effective method that can lighten hyperpigmentation from acne is regular exfoliation, whether done at home or under a dermatologist’s supervision. Proper skincare such as regular washing and moisturizing will also help reduce hyperpigmentation at a faster rate.

Hyperpigmentation from acne is not uncommon among people, because it is the body’s natural reaction when there is some sort of inflammation, which is often the case in acne or pimples. When a pimple appears and becomes inflamed, the skin reacts by producing excessive amounts of melanin, which remains after the pimple has subsided. The good thing about hyperpigmentation is it is not really a scar but only a discoloration that can fade away on its own. Treatments, however, can speed up the lightening process and may even promote overall healthier skin.

One of the most common ways to treat hyperpigmentation from acne is the use of topical creams, many of which are available over the counter. One common ingredient that you can look for is tretinoin, which is essentially vitamin A in acidic form and helps speed up the renewal of skin cells, thus diminishing dark spots. Hydroquinone is also a common ingredient in lightening creams because it prevents the production of melanin. Dermatologists, however, recommend using products that contain less than 4% hydroquinone, as stronger solutions may cause further hyperpigmentation.

You can also choose natural remedies to diminish hyperpigmentation, as they often contain vitamins and minerals that nourish the skin and help get rid of impurities. For example, vitamin C found in lemon and tomatoes stops the skin from producing melanin, while Vvtamin E in olive oil can help skin tissue repair itself and even out skin tone. Some other natural and household products that have been used to reduce hyperpigmentation for acne are aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, and yogurt.

Aside from topical treatments, regular exfoliation can also make hyperpigmentation from acne disappear. Skin cells often get replaced with new ones every 28 days, but exfoliation helps speed up the renewal process, so the dark spots from the hyperpigmentation fade away faster. Exfoliation also removes the topmost layer of dead skin cells, allowing better absorption of topical creams. You can do a physical or manual exfoliation at home with facial scrubs, or go to a dermatologist for a chemical treatment that will peel off the outermost layer of the skin. You should, however, remember to avoid too much sunlight, as exfoliated skin is very sensitive to the sun.

You can also take steps to altogether prevent hyperpigmentation from acne. Seeking an effective treatment for acne is the most important step, as acne is the underlying cause for hyperpigmentation. You should also resist picking or “popping” present pimples, as doing so may create darker spots, not to mention severe scarring. Putting on sunscreen will also prevent future dark spots.