Acne-related hyperpigmentation: Root causes and remedies
Acne-related hyperpigmentation, a condition that leaves dark spots on the skin after a pimple has disappeared, can be a concern for individuals with darker skin tones, such as African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders, and people of Middle Eastern descent.
When seeking treatment for this condition, it is crucial to be aware that some over-the-counter products may contain ineffective ingredients or contaminants. Therefore, it's essential to check the ingredient list to ensure that a product is likely to be effective in treating hyperpigmentation acne.
Topical treatments are a common approach for treating hyperpigmentation acne. Dermatologist-prescribed creams containing azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, retinoids, and tranexamic acid are often used. These ingredients work by gently lightening dark spots by slowing melanin production and promoting skin renewal without bleaching the natural skin tone. Prescription-strength agents like hydroquinone and tretinoin may also be employed under professional supervision for enhanced effect.
Another promising treatment is microneedling with topical exosomes. This method involves using a microneedling therapy system (MTS) to create micro-injuries in the skin, which allows topical exosomes to penetrate deeper and stimulate collagen production. The combination has shown significant improvement in postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) severity, resulting in more even skin tone and visible lightening.
Chemical peels are also used for hyperpigmentation acne treatment, particularly in the United States. Skin-type-specific, gentle chemical peels such as mandelic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or modified Jessner’s solution help exfoliate affected layers and accelerate cell turnover. These are considered safe for darker skin when appropriately chosen and administered.
Retinol-based products are another option, as they chemically exfoliate the skin and can block melanin production signals. Combined formulations (e.g., with kojic acid and niacinamide) improve dark spots, uneven texture, and post-acne marks without harsh bleaching.
Laser therapies, such as Q-switched, Nd:YAG, or fractional lasers, can target excess melanin with precision, breaking down pigment for removal by the body. However, in darker skin, these treatments require careful selection and expert administration to minimize risks of worsening pigmentation.
It's essential to remember that photoprotection, or the use of sun lotions and creams, is crucial for people with hyperpigmentation acne to limit their exposure to the sun to prevent the appearance of dark spots.
Dermatologists can help evaluate the intensity of dark spots and recommend the most appropriate treatment for hyperpigmentation acne. They can also give people realistic expectations regarding their treatment and may recommend combinations of medical treatments to speed up the fading process.
In summary, the most effective treatments for acne-related hyperpigmentation in darker skin combine safe topical agents that regulate pigment with procedural therapies like microneedling plus topical exosomes or carefully selected chemical peels. Laser options are available but must be used cautiously. Close dermatologist supervision ensures tailored treatment and monitoring for side effects or skin reactions.
- To ensure an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation acne, check the ingredient list of over-the-counter products carefully to avoid ineffective ingredients or contaminants.
- Dermatologist-prescribed creams containing azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, retinoids, and tranexamic acid are often used for treating hyperpigmentation acne, as these ingredients slow melanin production and promote skin renewal.
- Microneedling with topical exosomes has shown significant improvement in postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) severity, resulting in more even skin tone and visible lightening.
- Skin-type-specific, gentle chemical peels such as mandelic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or modified Jessner’s solution help exfoliate affected layers and accelerate cell turnover for hyperpigmentation acne treatment, particularly in the United States.
- Retinol-based products can block melanin production signals and improve dark spots, uneven texture, and post-acne marks; combining them with kojic acid and niacinamide can offer better results.
