Hyperpigmentation, in other words uneven skin pigmentation, is a real and sometimes complex problem for many people with black or mixed skin. Hyperpigmentation on black skin has some distinctive features.
Summary
Black skin contains a lot of melanin, the pigment responsible for color. Black skin will produce a surplus of melanin under the effect of one or more contributing factors, resulting in the formation of brown spots.
Brown spots are often more visible on dark skin than on fair skin, rapidly making the complexion appear uneven.
Some causes are common to both fair and dark skin, for example sun exposure, hormones, certain medicinal treatments and skin aging associated with the onset of age spots. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is common in people with black skin. Acne, eczema or merely a skin wound can lead to excess local melanin production and the formation of more or less stubborn brown spots.
Sun protection is essential, even for people with black skin, who tend to feel that they are naturally protected.
It is important to quickly and effectively treat all skin lesions, and to avoid fiddling with or scratching them.
It’s a good idea to apply an anti-brown spot cream and/or serum daily adapted to your complexion.
Dermo-cosmetics, depigmenting skin care and even dermatological procedures are used to treat hyperpigmentation on black skin.
Beware, some lightening treatments should not be used without medical advice. Topical corticosteroids, for example, which are usually used to treat of eczema or psoriasis, should not be used for anything other than their intended purpose because there is a risk of side effects, such as a thinning of the skin or scarring disorders.
