From the fairest to the deepest complexions, all skin tones can experience discoloration. There are several contributing factors including genetics and history of sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations and more. Skin discoloration can appear as uneven skin tone, stubborn brown patches, dark post-acne spots or a dull, dark skin appearance.

Skin discoloration starts with having extra melanin, the brown pigment responsible for your natural skin color. The sun also plays a significant role in the skin’s tone as well, since the skin produces melanin as a way of trying to protect itself from the effects of UV light which is all around us.

Dark spots can mar an otherwise picture-perfect complexion. Hyperpigmentation may be driven by hormones, medication, advancing age, the sun’s ultraviolet rays or even a reaction to acne or an injury to your skin. It occurs when your body produces extra melanin, the dark brown to black pigment found in the hair, skin, and eyes.

For years, the bleaching agent hydroquinone was considered the gold standard for erasing hyperpigmentation, but it was far from perfect. “Hydroquinone confers its fair share of risks and side effects, namely lightening in areas outside the intended spot and skin irritation,” explains plastic surgeon James Beckman, MD, Theraderm’s CEO and Founder.

The search for a natural alternative to hydroquinone that is just as effective yet safer is over. “Kojic acid, which is the main ingredient in Theraderm’s Enlighten Skin Brightener, blocks an enzyme that produces melanin,” Dr. Beckman says.

Enlighten Skin Brightener also contains L-Arbutin, a potent botanical that helps reduce the discoloration associated with sun exposure and aging without irritation. “Kojic acid and L-Arbutin block different steps in melanin synthesis,” Dr. Beckman says.

It also has some antioxidant properties to sop up damaging free radicals caused by exposure to UV damage and pollution, he adds.

Treating pigment disorders often begins with a chemical peel to remove the excess melanin on your skin’s outermost layers. To that end, Theraderm has 50% and 70% Lactic Acid and Jessner's Peels available in doctor’s offices. Another option is Theraderm Fruit Acid Exfoliant, which is applied daily with gentle action application pads and can be used in the comfort of your own home.

Even though you have minimized your brown patches, they may still come back if you don't learn from your skincare mistakes. “Protect your skin every day – even on cloudy days--with our Platinum Protection Facial Sunscreen. This will keep hyperpigmentation at bay,” Dr. Beckman says.

 

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