Hyperpigmentation Essay

316 Words2 Pages
An even skin color and complexion is considered a universal sign of youth and beauty. However, with any aging population comes the manifestation of various skin conditions, one of which is hyperpigmentation. Along with this, the high rate of unprotected tanning practices (causing sun spots), the newest baby boom (causing melasma), and the increased incidences of adult acne (causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), have led to a great demand for hyperpigmentation treatments and skin-lightening products in salons and spas. Hyperpigmentation refers to a skin condition in which patches or spots of skin become darker than the natural surrounding skin due to an overproduction of melanin.11 Age spots, sun spots, liver spots, freckles, and pregnancy mask all colloquially describe a type of irregular distribution of melanin in the skin's top layers. This condition is most often seen on the face, arms, and hands.7 The sources of these unsightly spots include hormonal changes, diseases, skin inflammation, adverse reactions to medication, and UV exposure.14 Though harmless, hyperpigmentation ranks as a legitimate and growing concern among clients. Fortunately, thanks to advances in skin science, treatment for the condition has come a long way. Today’s market is becoming intrigued by high-tech skin care equipment such as microdermabrasion, galvanic, ultrasound, etc. Simultaneously, the market is becoming increasingly attracted to holistic, natural ingredients in skin care products. As such, there is now a strong market shift towards the use of natural ingredients in skin-lightening preparations as opposed to toxic ingredients such as hydroquinone and mercury.2 This paper contends that the utilization of high-tech skin care equipment and holistic ingredients allow for a safe, minimally-invasive, and highly-effective facial hyperpigmentation treatment in salons and

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