Discover expert solutions for pigmentation concerns like melasma, sun spots, and acne scars. Achieve radiant, glowing skin with our proven treatments at Regions Clinic.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment Options in Malaysia
Hyperpigmentation is a medical term used to describe darker patches of skin from excess melanin production. This can be caused by everything from acne scars and sun damage to hormone fluctuations.
If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, know that you aren’t alone. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, and there are a number of different treatment options available.
1. Hyperpigmentation Treatment with Chemical Peels
A chemical peel uses acids at stronger concentrations to treat the desired area of skin. They reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing the top layer of your skin (epidermis). Deeper versions may also penetrate the middle layer of your skin (dermis) to produce more dramatic results.
Many chemical peels are available at aesthetic clinics. Popular options include:
- alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic, lactic, citric, malic, or tartaric acid
- azelaic acid
- kojic acid
- salicylic acid
- vitamin C (in the form of l-ascorbic acid)
Possible risks with chemical peels include:
- redness
- irritation
- blistering
- infection
- scarring
- allergic reaction
If you’re out in the sun on a regular basis, chemical peels may not be the best treatment option for you. Chemical peels cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun’s rays.
If you don’t adequately apply sunscreen and use other UV protection, the sun may worsen your hyperpigmentation. You’ll need to take extra precautions for at least one week after your last chemical peel.
Who should treat pigmentation with chemical peel?
Chemical peels may work if you have:
- age spots
- sun damage
- melasma
- blotchy skin
They also work best for fairer skin tones, and they may provide faster results than face acid products.
2. OTC Hyperpigmentation Treatment with Retinoids
Derived from vitamin A, retinoids are among some of the oldest OTC skin care ingredients used. Their small molecular structure allows them to penetrate deep into the skin and treat the layers below your epidermis.
Retinoids can come in either a prescription or OTC formula. However, OTC versions tend to be weaker. If you don’t see any results after a couple of months, talk with your dermatologist about the prescription retinoid tretinoin (Retin-A).
Who should try retinoids?
OTC retinoids may be safe for all skin tones, but you should double-check with your dermatologist if you have darker skin and plan on using these products long term.
It’s also important to note that retinoids are more often used to treat wrinkles than hyperpigmentation. This means that retinoids may not be the best first-line treatment.
What retinoids products can you try?
If you have multiple skin concerns, you may be interested in trying:
- Differin Gel: Previously available by prescription only, this retinoid helps address both acne and hyperpigmentation.
3. Laser Treatment for Pigmentation
A laser treatment uses targeted beams of light to reduce hyperpigmentation.
There are two types of lasers: ablative and non-ablative.
Ablative lasers or CO2 laser are the most intense, and they involve removing layers of your skin. Non-ablative procedures, on the other hand, target the dermis to promote collagen growth and tightening effects.
Ablative lasers are stronger, but they may cause more side effects. Both destroy elements in your skin to ensure that new skin cells grow back tighter and more toned.
Who should try laser for skin pigmentation removal ?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to skin resurfacing.
Ablative lasers may work better for people with fair skin. For some people, non-ablative versions may cause the skin to darken instead of lighten.
Your dermatologist will work with you to assess your discoloration and overall skin tone to select the best option for your skin.
4. Intense pulse light therapy (IPL) for Skin Pigmentation
IPL therapy is also known as a photofacial, IPL therapy stimulates collagen growth within the dermis. It usually requires multiple sessions.
IPL is used for overall pigmentation issues, but flat spots especially respond to this treatment. It may also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, spider veins, and enlarged pores.
5. Treat Skin Pigmentation with Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is an in-office procedure used to treat hyperpigmentation that affects the epidermis only (superficial scarring).
During the procedure, your dermatologist will use a drill-like handheld tool with a wire brush or another abrasive attachment. The tool is then swiped across your skin to rapidly — but gently — remove the epidermis.
You may need multiple sessions to achieve your ideal result.
Who should try microdermabrasion to remove unwanted skin pigmentation ?
Microdermabrasion works best on superficial scars. Your dermatologist can help you determine whether this treatment is right for you.
It also works well for people with fairer skin.
6. Skin Pigmentation Lightening creams
Lightening creams are over-the-counter (OTC) treatments that work with select ingredients to help decrease pigmentation. Many of these creams are available in stronger prescription forms.
They’re usually applied once or twice a day to help lighten the skin over time. Topical treatments for lightening also come in gel form.
Common ingredients found in OTC lightening products include:
- licorice extract
- vitamin B-3 (niacinamide)
Who should try pigmentation skin care?
Lightening creams or gels work best for flat spots, such as melasma or age spots. They’re effective for patches of discoloration on most skin types.
Which Hyperpigmentation Treatment Works Best for Each Skin Tone?
Skin tone can play a role in the intensity and length of hyperpigmentation treatments. As noted people with fair, medium, and dark skin tones can use some of the same therapies, but people with darker skin need more time for the treatment to work.
Fair skin responds well to most hyperpigmentation procedures.
The following might be off limits if you tan easily or have darker skin:
- high-beam lasers
- IPL therapy
Medium skin tones may find the following options helpful:
- chemical peels
- microdermabrasion
Darker skin might benefit from:
- glycolic acid
- kojic acid
- OTC lightening creams
- microdermabrasion
- lower-strength chemical peels
- laser treatments, but only when used at lower intensities over a larger number of sessions
Topical treatments generally take longer to produce visible results. Patience is key with any treatment option.
How can I get rid of dark pigmentation?
No matter what treatment you ultimately choose, it’s important to protect your skin from further sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
Wearing sunscreen every day is a must. You should apply sunscreen every morning — even when it’s cloudy! — and reapply as needed throughout the day. Be sure to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
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Regions Clinic | LCP Certified Aesthetic Clinic in Kuala Lumpur
