A thorough understanding of pigmentation disorders and causes is paramount for long-term success in the treatment room. By understanding various causes of hyperpigmentation and skin discoloration, along with a deep knowledge of ingredients that both lighten and brighten skin (and their sequential level of importance in the client care plan), skin care professionals can effectively treat these conditions and provide their clients with the visible results they deserve.  

Hyperpigmentation is characterized by dark patches or spots on skin. This can look like freckles or lentigos but also like larger, irregular patches of discoloration on various areas of the body. There are numerous intrinsic and extrinsic causes of skin discoloration, and the underlying causes require different levels of treatment plans. 

CONTRIBUTORS 

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is one of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation, along with being an extrinsic factor of aging. Ultraviolet radiation triggers an increase in melanin production, resulting in darkening of skin. While some amount of exposure to sunlight is necessary for healthy skin and vitamin D production, too much sun exposure has detrimental and long-term cellular aging effects. For this reason, it is important that clients apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher daily. Additionally, wearing protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, can help protect clients’ skin from overexposure to ultraviolet rays. The consistent advocacy for sun protection by skin care professionals is key to engraving this understanding into the minds of clients. 

Intrinsic factors that cause hyperpigmentation have to do with hormonal imbalances. Cells need food, oxygen, and water to survive and perform properly. Improper nutrition, such as consuming excessive amounts of sugar and dairy products, does not fortify organelles on a cellular level. Glucose ingested in excessive amounts causes a lining in the gut that is impenetrable to nutrients from fruits and vegetables. Lactose in dairy products can be broken down into galactose as well as glucose and cause the same reaction to occur.  

Courtney Sykes is the chief administrativeoOfficer of Southeastern Esthetics Institute and a licensed aesthetics instructor in South Carolina. Sykes is also the creator of Courtney Sykes Molecular Anti-Aging, a clinical skin care line for consumers and professionals. Her passion lies in creating real change in the aesthetics industry, assisting her students to obtain gainful employment, and making a difference in the lives of their clients. Sykes specializes in a science-based approach to skin health and education. Her primary focus is chemical peels, laser treatments, eyelash extensions, micropigmentation, and cosmetic lasers. Her background in medical spa management has led her to nationally accredit the largest, licensed aesthetics school in South Carolina – Southeastern Esthetics Institute.