News & Events

Hyper-pigmentation is a complex process but advances in science offer those affected with unwanted “dark spots” a real solution to lightening skin safely. Hyper-pigmentation is an over production of melanin in a localized area(s) and can occur for several reasons. The simplest cause is over exposure to UV light.  However, for many it is due to a combination of hormonal imbalance and exposure to UV light.  Often in women it occurs during pregnancy when hormonal levels are elevated.  What’s interesting to know is hyper-pigmentation can also occur when an individual is exposed to high temperatures for long periods of time, like the heat levels in the dessert climates. Those who have no choice but to be outside in those temperatures have a very high probability of developing some hyper-pigmented areas.  This is because the proteins that are responsible for initiating the melanin in the first place stem from the blood, and high temperatures cause us to have higher blood pressure. Just think how red our face gets when we are over heated.
For darker skin types it can occur for the same reason but even more easily as their skin already has a greater amount of melanin production. There are other causes such as medication or injuries.  In some cases the hyper-pigment will subside during winter months when the skin is in less heat and UV light. For many others it does not fade.  For these individuals a short term and long term prevention treatment should be developed according to their exact causes and skin type.
The concern is an overuse of treatments such as lasers with little operator knowledge, or prescriptions which have been overly used, causing further damage to the skin.  It is best to start with a conservative approach that is a guaranteed safe. If desired, a person can always try more invasive treatments with some risks.
Fortunately, much research has been dedicated to understanding the biological phases of how this occurs and how active ingredients can inhibit and lighten the unnatural darkened pigment.  Even more exciting is the breakthroughs in DNA cellular repair. This helps the skin to react properly and offers more “anti-aging” benefits beyond just hyper-pigment.  The key is finding a facility that really understands the conditions on all skin types and has the expertise to develop a customized program
Our first defense is using a UVA & UVB broad-spectrum protection.  This means both physical chemical blocks are blended for maximum protection of damaging UV rays.  Constant Re-applying is important but only practical if one is outside during a recreational activity.  For a typical day that might involve driving kids to and from school, health club, trip to the food market or a drive to the office, the key is layering, just like keeping warm in the winter.
There are so many choices; unfortunately the vast majority of over the counter cosmetic creams can’t deliver the same results as higher quality ingredients. So, ask questions and be sure and select an expert!