Chemical peels are one of the most effective non-invasive cosmetic treatments for diminishing dark spots, wrinkles, and other signs of aging Unfortunately, however, chemical peels may lead to Hyperpigmentation in some individuals.
Dr. Green offers Cosmelan as a treatment option, which lightens the appearance of melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients of all skin types and tones. Following treatment, sun avoidance should be practiced strictly.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Melanocytes, the pigment cells responsible for skin color creation, can become unstable when over stimulated, leading to discoloration in various forms such as dark spots and blotches over time. While this happens with people of all skin colors, it tends to occur more commonly among darker complexions who possess an abundance of melanin that can easily become overstimulation targets.
Chemical peels have long been used to address many skin conditions, such as hyperpigmentation. Strong TCA peels are particularly helpful at eliminating dark marks that appear after an injury such as pimples or skin tears called post- inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Laser treatments can also be an effective solution to treating mild cases of discoloration and dark spots, while our consultation service can recommend the appropriate laser therapy treatment plan based on your skin type and condition. You can help minimize dark spots by wearing sunscreen daily (even on cloudy days!) and using brightening skincare products – reach out today so we can arrange one!
What Causes Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), also known as discoloration caused by inflammation, causes your skin to produce extra melanin pigment and lead to discolouration of blotchy areas of skin, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). PIH often appears as dark spots or patches depending on your complexion and is most often visible where injuries have been sustained or damage has occurred; those of color are at higher risk due to having deeper melanin pigmentations naturally present within their complexions.
PIH occurs when skin damage sparks an inflammatory response from your immune system, prompting more melanin production to shield injured areas from further injury.
PIH may be caused by acne, eczema, psoriasis or sun damage; it can also occur after receiving a chemical peel treatment. Although not harmful, this condition can be irritating; oftentimes however it will resolve on its own or with some cosmetic camouflage; treatment options include medications, topical therapies or laser resurfacing treatments which may also help.
What Causes Post-Acne Hyperpigmentation?
Injury triggers inflammation in the body and causes increased production of pigment. This may result in darkening or lightening in affected areas and an associated “halo” of lighter skin around darker spots – something which is entirely normal and should fade in time.
Epidermal hyperpigmentation typically fades away or significantly lessens over six to 12 months without treatment, although additional interventions can hasten this process and prevent the marks from worsening further.
Dermatologists or skincare specialists may perform chemical peels to address discoloration. Some peels are superficial, targeting only the top layers; others penetrate further down, to address issues like blotchy areas, uneven tone, age spots and more. Retin A or an alpha hydroxy acid cream like glycolic acid may be applied prior to starting the peel process to ensure even penetration of its effects.
What Causes Post-Surgical Hyperpigmentation?
Inflammation causes your body to produce more melanin, leading to dark spots on the skin that form as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). While it can affect any skin tone, people with darker complexions seem more susceptible than others; often appearing as flat areas of discoloration on the skin ranging from red, pink, purple or brown colors; it usually fades after its source of inflammation subsides; however it could take months before fully disappearing from view.
Some face creams can worsen PIH, as can picking or scrubbing affected areas, so wearing broad spectrum sun protection every day is key. Chemical peels may help if used carefully by experienced dermatologists; examples include glycolic acid, salicylic acid or trichloroacetic acid peels combined with tretinoin or hydroquinone can effectively treat mild cases of PIH in dark-complexioned patients – we offer consultation services so we can recommend the appropriate products for you during consultation sessions.