What is hyperpigmentation?

Normal skin contains cells called melanocytes that produce the brown skin-coloring pigment melanin. There are several conditions in which melanocytes are either abnormal or abnormally distributed. Most skin conditions that cause discoloration are harmless.

A pale area of the skin is the result of fewer or less active melanocytes than usual, whereas a darker area (or area that tans more easily) indicates more numerous or more active melanocytes.

What about the red/brown marks left behind after acne?

These kind of marks are postinflammatory hyperpigmented lesions and are located at the site of a skin trauma after it has healed.They can result from acne, bites, burns or skin infections. The lesions range from light brown to black in colour. Lesions may become darker if exposed to sunlight (UV rays).

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation can occur in anyone, but is more common in darker skinned individuals, in whom the colour tends to be more intense and persists for a longer period.

What is the cause of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation?

Inflammatory responses of the skin to disease or trauma results in the release and oxidation of arachidonic acid. The resulting reaction alters the activity of immune cells and melanocytes. Melanocytes produce more melanin (skin colour pigment), which is transferred to surrounding skin cells. This is known as epidermal hypermelanosis and can be treated with skin care products.


What about marks caused by sun damage?

Larger flat brown spots on the face and hands arising in middle age also result from sun damage exposure. Unlike freckles they tend to persist for long periods and don't disappear in the winter (though they may fade). Commonly known as age spots or liver spots, the correct term for a single lesion is benign solar lentigo (plural lentigines). Lentigines are common in those with fair skin but are frequently seen in those who tan easily or have naturally dark skin. Lentigines are due to accumulated pigment cells (melanocytic hyperplasia).


What are the best non-surgical treatments for hyperpigmentation?
Usually, hyperpigmentation will gradually lessen over time and normal skin colour will return. However, this is a long process that may take up to 6-12 months or longer. It is advisable to use a good broad spectrum sunscreen daily to reduce further darkening. A variety of topical treatments are available to lighten and fade hyperpigmented lesions. Varying degrees of success are achieved but combinations of the treatments below are usually required for significant improvement.

• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate
• Retinoids
• Alpha Hydroxy Acid
• Kojic acid
• Gamma oryzanol
• N-Acetyl Glucosamine & Niacinamide

Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Kojic acid and gamma oryzanol are available in Ishtar Skinlights Clarity-C Skin Perfecting Serum.

Retinoids - including natural tretinoin-and kojic acid are available in Ishtar Skinlights Bioregenerative Skin Repair Oil.

N-Acetyl Glucosamine & Niacinamide are available in Ishtar Skinlights Dermaplex oil free serum, and Ultraderm cream.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are available in Ishtar Skinlights Bioclear Wash and Bioclear Fluid.