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One of the most common skin complaints is that of hyperpigmentation. While we all dream of a doll-like Alabaster finish or a rich, even, mahogany glow, discoloration can impede on our ideals of perfection. Hyperpigmentation is an excess of pigmentation in the skin. Factors influence cells called melanocytes to produce pigment as a defense mechanism. Some types of Hyperpigmentation include: Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is caused by an inflammatory response to a chemical or a physical irritant. It is most common in Asian, Black, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Skin types. This is because there is more pigmentation naturally occurring within the Skin. Over treatment of acne with products such as Benzoyl peroxide, aggressive exfoliation and acne or blemish extractions can all lead to hyperpigmentation. Hormonal Hyperpigmentation Our hormones influence all other body functions including those in the skin. This discoloration can be caused by birth control, hormonal therapies, pregnancy or menopause. The most common pigmentation alignment caused by hormones is melasma, also know as pregnancy mask and is characterized by splotchy dark patches across the face, usually not affecting the orbital around the eyes lending to the disorder’s nickname. Sun Damage induced Hyperpigmentation Unprotected exposure to the sun’s radiation can lead to melanocytes being so severely damaged that this immune response to darken can be permanently affected. UV induced discoloration includes; Solar lentigens (freckles), Chloasma (liver spots), and multiple forms of Mottling or grouping of various spots that create an overall pronounced patch. Sun induced hyperpigmentation most easily afflicts Caucasians, as it is more visible. How to Combat Hyperpigmentation: When dealing with hyperpigmentation, a two-part approach goes hand-in-hand. Treatment and prevention are equally important. Treatment There are many creams, lotions and serums to treat Hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone is the only FDA approved drug for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. It works by interfering with the production of melanocytes. It is available over the counter at a 2% concentration. There are many other topical products that help suppress melanin production or brighten the skin and these include: Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Vitamin C, Bearberry Extract, Azelaic Acid and Licorice Extract  Exfoliation also aids in the removal of these cells that lay on the top surface of the skin. When used properly Glycolic Acid or other AHAs, Salicylic Acid and Treitnoin (Vitamin A), sloth off the buildup of cells. Just use caution with exfoliation, especially physical exfoliants as they can worsen or be the root cause of discoloration. Prevention All Hyperpigmentation no matter the initial cause will be worsened by sun exposure. A daily SPF of 30, reapplied often is necessary. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face. Limit your outdoor activities by avoiding the hours that the sun is the most dangerous (10am-4pm) and never use indoor tanning beds. Hopefully with this information you will be better prepared to pursue that desire for beautiful, even skin no matter your race or age.   Blog Written by askderm's in house Esthetician Chantal Monique Chantal Monique is a NYS licensed Esthetician and Makeup Artist. She has 7 years experience in skin care and makeup artistry. Her specialties include makeup application and facial treatments, which were featured on ABC's Wife Swap. Chantal also has a background in the Fine Arts. With the unique combination of her education as well as the desire to help people feel beautiful, Chantal provides expert skin care knowledge for our customers as well as the must have ingredients and trending looks. With an ever growing portfolio and clientele askderm is excited to be teamed up with Chantal for future blogs, informational videos and skin care tips!

Just like you switch up your wardrobe to work for the changing seasons, it's important to do the same with your skincare regimen. While summer skincare is all about sun protection, fall brings its own challenges - repairing any summer skin damage and preparing your skin for the cooler temps. The change in seasons can be a shock to the health of the epidermis. As the air becomes drier, so does our skin, leaving it feeling tight, flaky, even red and over sensitized. Simple changes in our skincare regime can return it to a state of balance and even combat the damage it endured over the summer months. Moisturize Change up your moisturizer- swap out a lighter moisturizer for one slightly heavier and creamier. If you have oily skin, you may have skipped moisturizer all together during the summer. Those with more mature skin may have opted for a lighter formula as heavy creams lead to sweating or makeup slipping, but as the air cools and become drier, you may need a more intense dose of moisture. Moisturizer recommendation- Person & Covey Facial Moisturizer Topix Ultra Lite Moisture Dew Cream Exfoliate Oil-based scrubs are great in fall because they exfoliate and hydrate your skin. While everyone should be exfoliating year round, many people do not think about it until they are experiencing flaky rough patches or are trying to conceal their hyperpigmentation and freckles caused by damaging UV rays. Cleansing devices, leave on treatments and exfoliating mask are all effective in removing dead skin buildup while also combating dull or discoloration in the skin. Exfoliation recommendations- FOREO Luna Peter Thomas Roth Strawberry Exfoliating Scrub Avivi Invigorate Body Scrub Protect Don't skin the SPF! UVA and UVB rays are present year-round, not just during the warm summer months. We are affected by UV damage no matter the temperature or how bright the sun seems. Whether it is sitting by an office window, driving in the car or participating in outdoor fall activities you are being exposed to damaging UV rays. The majority of UVA rays penetrate through cloud cover. Sun protection recommendations- Murad Correcting Moisturizer SPF 15 La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Anti-aging Primer Hand Care Hands often become dry and cracked during fall and winter so stay ahead with a moisturizing hand cream. Hand cream recommendations- Bliss High Intensity Hand Cream DCL Peptide Plus Hand Cream There is no need to commit to one product or skin care routine year round. Your skin’s health can be improved when you change your skincare with the changing seasons.