Hyperpigmentation of the skin and treatment options

Hyperpigmentation of the skin manifests itself clinically as circumscribed or diffuse darkening of the skin, which is most often caused by a disorder in the production and distribution of melanin. They are more common in people with a dark phototype due to more intense melanin synthesis. In the prevention and treatment of hyperpigmentation, it is important to treat the underlying disease that causes them. At the same time, we symptomatically remove hyperpigmentation with local lightening preparations, chemical peels, cryotherapy, microneedling, plasmatherapy, light or laser therapy. In practice, we often have to choose a combination of individual methods accompanied by consistent photoprotection. A thorough dermatological history, skin examination and possibly skin biopsies from the manifestation can help to eliminate malignancy. For diffuse hyperpigmentation, autoimmune, metabolic or infectious etiology should be considered. Hyperpigmentation therapy is often lengthy and difficult, so it is very important to motivate the patient properly, which will increase mutual trust and support the patient's willingness to cooperate and follow our recommendations.

Keywords: hyperpigmentation, therapy, photoprotection, melsma, postinflamatory hyperpigmentation.