Hyperpigmentation & Role of Q Switch Laser
About Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation refers to darkened patches or spots on the skin, caused by an overproduction of pigment melanin responsible for your skin’s colour. It can affect any part of the body, but is most visible on the face, neck, arms, and hands.
Melasma is the most common type of hyperpigmentation seen on the face. Melasma appears as symmetrical, brown-grey patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It’s especially common in women during pregnancy.
Melasma can happen due to hormonal shifts (from pregnancy, birth control, hormone therapy), sun exposure, heat and light including from screens and genetic predisposition.
Melasma is chronic and relapsing, but manageable with proper care and patience.
Types of Hyperpigmentation & Dark Spots
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) presents as dark marks left after acne, cuts, or burns More common in darker skin tones.
Melasma is mainly hormone-related presenting as symmetrical patches worsening with sun and heat.
Sunspots or solar lentigines are caused by cumulative sun damage. They appear with age, often on sun-exposed areas.
Freckles are genetic or sun-induced. They may darken with sun exposure.
Causes of Excess Pigmentation
Melanin production can be triggered or increased due to various factors like:
• UV exposure stimulates melanin to protect skin but causes uneven dark patches on the skin.
• Hormonal changes: Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations can lead to hyperpigmentation.
• Inflammatory changes in acne, eczema, or skin trauma can cause dark pigmented patches.
• Genetic factors like family history increases the risk.
• Some medications like anti-epileptics or antibiotics, can cause pigmentation
Who Is More Prone to Hyperpigmentation?
Some people are more vulnerable to dark spots and melasma, especially:
Individuals with medium to dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick types IV–VI), where pigmentation tends to linger longer.
Women with PCOS, thyroid disorders, or those taking hormonal contraceptives.
Teenagers and adults who frequently suffer from acne or skin inflammation.
People with a family history of melasma or freckles.
The emotional impact of visible dark patches on the face cannot be overstated. Many people feel embarrassed to go makeup-free, self-conscious in social or professional settings, anxious about skin worsening over time and frustrated after trying countless ineffective products
These feelings are valid, and it's essential to approach pigmentation not just as a skin issue, but a mental wellness concern too. Compassion and evidence-based care can restore both skin and self-esteem.
Treatment Overview – What Really Works for Dark Spots & Melasma?
Understanding your risk factors helps with prevention and early management. Topical treatments like retinoids increase cell turnover and fade dark marks, azelaic acid, kojic acid, and arbutin are natural skin brightening agents, tranexamic acid blocks pigment production and can be used both topically and orally.
Sunscreen use is mandatory. Spf30 or above, broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable. Tinted sunscreens offer added protection against visible light.
In clinic treatments with chemical peels like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid peels can help exfoliate and fade superficial pigmentation.
Role of Q-Switch Laser in Treating Pigmentation
The Q-switch Nd:YAG laser is a widely trusted, FDA-approved laser used to treat pigmentation safely in all skin types, especially darker tones.
Q-switch laser delivers high-energy light pulses in nanoseconds, breaks down melanin clusters without harming surrounding tissue and also stimulates collagen, reduces pigment over time
Q-switched laser therapy is especially effective for stubborn melasma, freckles, sunspots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Hollywood Spectra is an advanced Q-switch Nd:YAG laser system. It's known for combining gentle yet effective laser energy with minimal downtime, making it a preferred choice for both acne scars and pigmentation.
Hollywood Spectra is safe for all skin types, including Indian skin. It offers laser toning, enhances overall skin clarity and radiance. It can be combined with carbon peel, the famous “Hollywood Peel” for extra glow and for oily and acne prone skin.
Usually 3-6 sessions are recommended for maximum results, spaced 2–4 weeks apart.