How does an esthetician treat hyperpigmentation? What should the client do at home?
A. There are four basic concepts in the topical treatment of hyperpigmentation. 1. First and foremost, routine sun protection is imperative. The daily use of an SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must. It is best to choose a moisturizer that contains sunscreen to simplify application. Look for a sunscreen product that contains zinc oxide, along with possibly other sunscreen agents. Avoidance of direct sun exposure is strongly recommended. Even with sunscreen, sun exposure can be counterproductive to the treatment’s success. 2. The daily use of a 10-percent alpha hydroxy exfoliant gel or cream helps to remove already-pigmented cells, and helps to enable better penetration of products that impair melanin production. Minor and surface pigmentation problems often respond to AHA use and sunscreen without the use of a melanin suppressor. 3. Melanin suppressors, also called skin lighteners, are ingredients that interfere with the biochemical process in the skin that produces the melanin. E
