Exfoliation

• A primary home-care treatment for improving pigmentation is exfoliation. There are two forms of exfoliation: mechanical and biological. In either case, the benefits are achieved by removing surface layers of dead, discolored skin cells.
  
  Mechanical exfoliation is accomplished by the manipulation of a product with an abrasive component that gently scrubs away surface cells. This process is recommended twice a week.
  
  Biological exfoliation is another type of treatment safely done at home. A product using enzymes is the most common. It is less likely to cause irritation than abrasive exfoliating.
  
  Acids are a more aggressive approach for eliminating surface cells. Over-the-counter products used according to directions are fairly safe. Typical acids in this type of formulation are alpha, salicylic, lactic and beta hydroxy acids. Acids act by melting the sebum that binds cells together to form the surface layers of skin. If over used, acids can thin the skin, making it vulnerable to irritation and dehydration.
  
  

Microdermabrasion

• Microdermabrasion is a form of exfoliation performed by either an esthetician or through a dermatology office. It utilizes a micro crystal sprayed onto the skin with light force. A vacuum wand is used to remove the crystals along with dead surface-skin cells loosened by the process, leaving the pigment more even in appearance. Microdermabrasion is a popular treatment for a variety of skin issues including hyperpigmentation. It even can be used on someone fair skinned for whom a more aggressive chemical peel is a poor treatment option.
  
  

Peels

• Estheticians can perform peels stronger than those designed for home use. Peels frequently used by estheticians include alpha hydroxy acid, salicylic and Jessner, which is a combination of acids well suited to addressing pigmentation problems.
  
  Dermatologists use stronger peels of the Jessner and TCA variety. These procedures must be performed following strict protocols and adherence to post-procedure care. They can burn or damage the skin if used improperly. Peels cause upper layers of the skin to peel for 8 to 10 days, revealing healthier, more evenly pigmented skin.
  
  

Topical Creams

• Another method for correcting hyperpigmentation is the use of topical creams containing melanin inhibitors. Hydroquinone has been widely used because of its effectiveness. While it produces excellent results, there are concerns related to long-term use.
  
  In recent years, new tyrosinase inhibitors with no side effects have come into use. They include arbutin. Although this is a derivative of hydroquinone, it does not damage cells. Turmeric, bearberry extract, mulberry extract and licorice extract are other plant-based ingredients that prove effective. Using a topical product takes 30 to 60 days to produce noticeable results, because it impacts the cell renewal process that takes place over a period of time.
  
  Best results for diminishing dark spots associated with hyperpigmentation are achieved by exfoliating weekly, along with daily use of a cream or lotion. More severe cases will benefit from microdermabrasion or peels as prescribed by a skin-care professional. Sun protection in conjunction with any skin lightening regimen is absolutely essential.