At Almasi Skincare we offer the best hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi Kenya. This treatment combines the use of skincare products, prescription medications, dermatology procedures, and lifestyle changes.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a term used to describe spots or patches of the skin which are darker than the natural skin tone. This occurs due to overproduction of the pigment known as melanin which gives skin its color.
Causes of hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation develops when skin cells known as melanocytes produce excessive amounts of the natural pigment known as melanin. This occurs due to the following:
1.Inflammation
Inflammation causes post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This inflammation can be caused by skin diseases like acne (see picture below) and eczema. It can also be caused by insect bites, cuts, bruises, friction, scratching and medical procedures like laser therapy.
Hypeerpigmentation develops after inflammation because inflammation stimulates the melanocytes to produce melanin. Persons with darker skin tones like Kenyans and other persons of African descent (Fitzpatrick scale 3 to 6) are more likely to develop hyperpigmentation.
2. Sun damage
Hyperpigmentation which develops after sun damage is known as solar lentigines or solar spots or sun spots or age spots or liver spots. This hyperpigmentation develops because sun exposure causes the melanocytes to produce more melanin as they attempt to protect the skin from damage.
3. Melasma
Melasma is a condition which is also known as chloasma or the mask of pregnancy. This hyperpigmentation develops as a result of sun exposure combined with genetics and hormonal changes such as those that occur during pregnancy or after taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
Click here to learn more about Melasma Treatment in Kenya
4. Medications
Medications which can cause hyperpigmentation include minocycline, amiodarone, amlodipine and antimalarias like chloroquin and hydroxychloroquin.
5. Medical conditions
Medical conditions which can cause hyperpigmentation include Addison’s disease in which the skin darkens especially over sun-exposed areas, in the mouth, on joints, scars and nails. Persons with acanthosis nigricans develop dark velvety patches on the neck and armpits. Hemochromatosis causes bronzing or darkening of the skin especially on sun-exposed areas. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause hyperpigmentation of the hands and feet.
Symptoms of hyperpigmentation
Symptoms of hyperpigmentation include dark spots and black or brown patches on the skin.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
Hyperpigmentation treatment in Kenya and the rest of the world depends on the underlying cause, the patient’s age and the affected site.
The first step of hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi Kenya is to treat the underlying cause. Therefore it is being caused by acne, eczema or any other condition, these must first be treated.
Click here to read about The Best Acne Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
Click here to read about The Best Eczema Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
The second step of hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi Kenya is to treat the hyperpigmentation itself. This treatment process usually takes several months and it includes using dermatology procedures, prescription medications, over-the-counter skincare products and lifestyle changes.
Dermatology Procedures for Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
Dermatology procedures used for dark spots treatment in Nairobi Kenya include microdermabrasion, microneedling and chemical peels.
Microdermabrasion for Hyperpigmentation Treatment
At Almasi Skincare we offer microdermabrasion for hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi.
Microdermabrasion is a procedure in which a device with a diamond tip is used to remove the dead cells on the surface of the skin. This reduces the discolorations on the skin resulting in more even toned skin. Removing the dead skin cells also reveals the brighter skin below which results in a more youthful appearance. Removal of the dead layer of cells on the surface of the skin also enhances the absorption of skincare products by the skin. Microdermabrasion also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin which helps the skin continue looking firmer. The gentle vacuuming pressure of microdermabrasion also boosts the circulation of blood in the skin and this enhances the delivery of nutrients to the skin.
Our unique microdermabrasion procedure fades the dark patches by 30% each session. It is therefore the best hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi Kenya as it works faster than other methods.
Microneedling for Hyperpigmentation Treatment
At Almasi Skincare we offer microneedling for hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi.
Microneedling which is also known as collagen induction therapy, is a procedure in which a device with small needles is used to cause micro-injuries in the skin. This stimulates the body to heal the area and normalise the melanin production process. Several sessions need to be done for optimum results.
Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation Treatment
At Almasi Skincare we offer chemical peels for hyperigmentation treatment in Nairobi.
A chemical peel is a procedure in which a special solution is applied to the skin to remove the top layer of dead cells by loosening the glue that holds them together. This helps reduce hyperpigmentation since these cells tend to be the most discolored. It also leaves the skin softer, smoother and with a more youthful appearance. Chemical peels also help skin care products penetrate the skin better.
Superficial or mild chemical peels are done with chemicals like salicylic acid which is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA). Medium-depth chemical peels are done with chemicals like glycolic acid and lactic acid which are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Deep chemical peels are usually done with chemicals like trichloroacetic acid.
Prescription Medications for Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
Prescription medications are used for dark spots treatment in Nairobi Kenya include the following:
Topical Retinoids
Retinoids which are applied on the skin increase the rate of shedding of the dead skin cells which increases the rate of fading of the hyperpigmented patches. These vitamin A derivatives also have anti-inflammatory properties. Retinoids are best applied at night after cleansing the skin. Topical retinoids which are used to treat hyperpigmentation include tazarotene cream 0.1%, tretinoin 0.1% (Retin A, Renova) and adapalene (Clear). Tretinoin can be used in a modified Kligman formula of hydroquinone 2%, tretinoin 0.05%, and hydrocortisone 1% to treat post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Skin Care Products for Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
Over-the-counter skin care products used to treat hyperpigmentation include soaps, face washes, creams and gels with ingredients like alpha arbutin, azelaic acid, kojic acid, mandelic acid, retinols and vitamin C.
Adapalene
Adapalene is a retinoid that is effective for treating hyperpigmentation because it exfoliates the skin and increases the rate of fading of the dark patches.
Differin Gel
Differin Gel contains 0.1% adapalene and is therefore effective for clearing dark patches. It was previously only available by prescription but can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721963156 to order. We deliver countrywide.
Click here to read the Differin Gel Review
Alpha Arbutin and Beta Arbutin
Alpha arbutin and beta arbutin are tyrosinase inhibitors which reduce melanin overproduction. Hyperpigmentation products which contains arbutin include:
The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid + Alpha Arbutin
This arbutin skincare product is a powerhouse for treating hyperpigmentation because it combines arbutin with vitamin C. It can be purchased from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Store located in Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call 0721963156 or WhatsApp 254 721 963 156 to order. We deliver countrywide / worldwide.
Azelaic Acid
Azelaic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which reduces pigmentation because it inhibits tyrosinase which reduces melanin overproduction. Azelaic acid also exfoliates the skin which increases the rate at which the dark spots and patches fade. Azelaic acid is also great for treating acne which is a common cause of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It can be used in pregnancy. Hyperpigmentation products with azelaic acid include:
Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster
This azelaic acid skincare product contains 10% azelaic acid which has anti-inflammatory properties which help to soothe skin irritation and fade dark spots. Azelaic acid also improves the skin texture resulting in smooth skin. This hyperpigmentation fading product also contains salicylic acid which is an acne treatment medication that exfoliates the skin and unclogs the pores. It is therefore good for persons with active acne and hyperpigmentation. This Paula’s Choice formulation can be used by itself or added to a moisturizer or serum. It should be used twice a day.
This azelaic acid skincare product contains 10% azelaic acid. It can be used either in the morning alone or in the morning and evening to brighten the skin and smoothen its texture.
Centella Asiatica
Centella asiatica or gotu kola, has been found by a study to reduce the melanin content of melanocystes. Its antioxidant properties also help in the management of hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation products which contain centella asiatica include:
This centella skincare product is a very effetive melasma treatment cream because it contains 2% centella asiatica, 5% niacinamide and tranexamic acid. This Korean beauty skincare product moisturizes the skin, soothes it and protects it barrier in addition to erasing dark spots. It should be used in the morning and evening. It can be purchased from Amazon.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and a natural skin brightening agent that is drived from fungus. It inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase and this reduces melanin overproduction. Hyperpigmentation treatment products with kojic acid include:
Evagloss Lightening Serum with Kojic Acid
This kojic acid skincare product is used to lighten hyperpigmentation from multiple causes like melasma. It can be used on the face as well as other parts of the body that tend to dark like the knees, elbows, armpits, neck, inner thighs, nipples and other private body parts.
Ferulic Acid
Ferulic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor which reduces melanin overproduction. It is also an antioxidangt which protects the skin from free radical damage that causes premature aging. When formulated with other antioxidants like resveratrol, vitamin C and E, ferulic acid increases their effectiveness. Hyperpigmentation skincare products with ferulic acid include the following:
The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
This ferulic acid skincare product contains resveratrol which is an antioxidant from grapes and propanediol which is a moisturizer. It ightens dark spots, brightens thre skin and prevents aging. You can purchase it from Amazon.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is a tyrosinase inhibitor which reduces melanin overproduction. Hyperpigmentation skincare products with licorice root include the following:
Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum
This licorice root skincare product also contains retinol and niacinamide to reduce the appearance of post acne marks or hyperpigmentation. It is fragrance free making it suitable for sensitive skin. It is also non-greasy gel and non-comedogenic making it a good choice for acne-prone skin. It also contains essential ceramides to repair the protective skin barrier. It can be purchased from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop.
Click here to read the Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum Review
Mandelic Acid
Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) obtained from bitter almonds which exfoliates the skin by increasing cell turnover. It is used to improve skin tone by reducing dark spots and improve skin texture by making it smoother. Mandelic acid is a good option for person with sensitive skin since its molecules are larger than those of other AHAs and thus it penetrates the skin less deeply causing less irritation. It is therefore also less likely to cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in person with darker skin tones. It is therefore used in person of all skin tones. Hyperpigmentation skincare products with mandelic acid include:
The mandelic acid skincare product contains 10% mandelic acid to reduce dark spots and make the skin smoother. It also contains hyaluronic acid to keep it hydrated.
The mandelic acid skincare product contains 8% mandelic acid to reduce dark spots, minimize wrinkles and battle acne. It also contains lactic acid which is an AHA derived from milk that exfoliates dead skin cells, enhances cell renewal and acts as a moisture binder. Vivant Mandelic Acid Serum also contains urea which enhances skin rehydration. Sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA) is another ingredient of this mandelic acid serum and it aids skin repair and repels pollutants like smoke and UV rays from the skin. This formulation is a therefore a good choice for persons with African skin and acne-prone skin and those with sensitive skin that is too sensitive to use benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid and hydroquinone.
N acetylglucosamine
N acetylglucosamine (NAG) is a tyrosinase inhibitor which reduces melanin overproduction.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide or vitamin B3 is a tyrosinase inhibitor which reduces melanin overproduction. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and has been proven to reduce redness and hyperpigmentation. It also calms the skin which makes it a good choice for sensitive skin. Hyperpigmentation products with niacinamide include:
Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This niacinamide skincare product brigthens the skin, smoothens it and reinforces the skin barrier. It can be purchased from Amazon.
Retinol Products
These vitamin A derivatives are clinically proven to reduce hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. They also unclog pores to clear up acne and blackheads. Over-the-counter retinols have low concentrations of 0.5% -2.5 when compared to prescription retinoids and this makes them less likely to cause adverse effects of redness, peeling and irritation. Hhyperigmentation skincare productds with retinols include:
Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Neutrogena Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector
Neutrogena Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector contains retinol which fades the dark spots by exfoliating the skin. It also contains vitamin C which reduces melanin production and brightens the skin. This dark spot remover also contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin and plump it. It can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop.
Click here to read the Neutrogena Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corrector Review
Amara Organics Retinol 2.5% Serum
This retinol serum contains 2.5% retinol to reduce skin discolorations and vitamin E to protect the skin cells from free radical damage since it is a potent antioxidant. It also contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. It is fragrance free and can be used by all skin types including sensitive skin. It is also paraben free and cruelty free.
Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid is used to treat hyperpigmentation. It can be applied on the skin or taken as a pill. Hyperpigmentation skincare products with tranexamic acid include the following:
Inkey List Tranexamic Acid Serum
This tranexamic acid serum contains 2% tranexamic acid to reduce hyperpigmentation, 2% vitamin C derivative to brighten the skin and 2% acai berry to even the skin tone. This lightweight gel can be used by persons with oily, dry, combination and normal skin. This hyperpigmentation serum is vegan and cruelty free. You can also buy it from Amazon.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid inhibits an enzyme known as tyrosinase which makes melanin and this helps reduce the appearance of dark spots on the skin. It is also a powerful antioxidant which protects the skin cells from free radical damage. Hyperpigmentation skincare products that contain vitamin C include:
Neutrogena Retinol + Vitamin C Dark Spot Corretor
Inkey List Tranexamic Acid Serum
The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid + Alpha Arbutin
This vitamin C skincare product contains 7.5% ascorbic acid to lighten dark spots and brighten the skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated. It should be applied on alternate nights after cleansing the skin and before applying a moisturizer.
TruSkin Natural Vitamin C serum
This vitamin C skincare product contains 20% ascorbic acid and it can therefore be used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles in addition to lightening dark spots and brightening the skin. This formulation also contains hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated as well as vitamin E which is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage. TruSkin Vitamin C serum also contains aloe vera, jojoba and witch hazel. It can be used during the day and night before the moisturizing.
Lifestyle Changes for Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Nairobi Kenya
Lifestyle changes that are used to treat drk spots in Nairobi Kenya include:
Use Sunscreen
Using sunscreen daily is very important because darkened skin patches tend to become darker when exposed to the sun. This happens because melanin absorbs energy from the sun’s UV rays in order to protect the skin from overeposure and this results in the skin darkening even more. Therefore use sunscreen every day because it protects the skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays and prevents overproduction of melanin.
When buying sunscreen, choose an oil free, noncomedogenic sunscreen which offers broad spectrum protection against UVA rays which cause aging and UVB rays which cause burning (sunburns). Aim for a SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or above. Ensure that you also reapply the suncreen every 2 hours.
We recommend the La Roche Posay Invisible Shaka Fluid SPF 50 because if can be used by all skin types. It can be purchased from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop.
In addition to using sunscreen, practice sun avoidance by staying out of the sun when it is hottest which is usually between 10 am and 2 pm.
Do Not Squeeze Pimples
Do not pick or scratch or rub or squeeze pimples. Squeezing forces infected material deeper into the skin causing additional inflammation and infection which heals with scars and hyperpigmentation.
Avoid skin irritants
Stop using any skincare product that irritates your skin because continued use may cause inflammation which can heal with hyperpigmentation.
Seek early treatment
Seek early treatment of skin diseases like acne and eczema as well as any other condition that can heal with hyperpigmentation like cuts and bruises.
Hyperpigmentation FAQs
The following are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions on hyperpigmentation.
What is the most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation?
From our experience with many clients, the most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation is our unique microdermabrasion procedure because it fades the dark patches by 30% each session. This should be combined with using hyperpigmentation fading skincare products like The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid + Alpha Arbutin.
What cream is best to remove hyperpigmentation?
The answer to “What cream is best to remove hyperpigmentation?” is divided into creams that need a prescription and those that can be bought over the counter.
Tretinoin is one of the best creams to remove hyperpigmentation because a study found that it reduced post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However it needs to be prescribed by a Doctor.
Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair is one of the best creams to remove hyperigmenation that can be bought from a shop without a prescrition because it has a potent combination of a retinol which removes pigmentation and vitamin C which brightens the skin. It can be purchased from the Nairobi Almasi Skincare Store located in Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, shop C15. Call or WhatsApp 0721963156 to order. We deliver countrywide.
Which tablet is best for hyperpigmentation?
“Which tablet is best for hyperpigmentation?” is commonly asked by persons who have used many hyperpigmentation skincare products and yet have had poor results. Tranexamic acid tablets are used to treat melasma though more research is needed before they can be fully recommended.
Consult Almasi Skincare today for the best hyperpigmentation treatment in Nairobi Kenya.
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