- The use of medicated creams is one strategy for the fast removal of hyperpigmentation. There are number of products available both behind and over-the-counter, most of which contain the chemical hydroquinone as the main active ingredient. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, hydroquinone works by blocking the production of melanin, which is a pigment in the skin responsible for color. Dark patches are essentially "bleached" lighter to blend in with surrounding skins. Prescription creams can contain up to twice the amount of hydroquinone than over-the-counter varieties, and should be used with caution. For more severe cases of hyperpigmentation, creams with cortisone or tretinoin can be used, though they can be irritating to the skin. Microdermabrasion creams are another option. They contain tiny sand-like particles that gently scrub away the upper layers of skin.
- Laser resurfacing is another strategy for the fast removal of hyperpigmentation. It is an ablative laser procedure, meaning that it involves the destruction of tissue. During laser resurfacing, affected areas are bombarded with high-energy beams of light, which burn away the epidermis, or outer layer of skin. Simultaneously, the beams heat up underlying skin layers, stimulating their growth. Sedatives and local anesthetics (the numbing of specific areas) are given to patients before the procedure, and the eyes and hair are covered. According to MayoClinic.com, laser resurfacing can take anywhere form 30 minutes to two hours. The length of treatment largely depends on the size of the area affected by hyperpigmentation. Typically there is no need to stay overnight in the hospital or medical facility where the surgery was performed. After laser resurfacing, skin may become raw, blistered and crusty, and excrete a yellow liquid. It may be necessary to keep the area covered with bandages for a day or two after the procedure. It is important for patients not to pick at or touch the affected area, because this could cause scarring. According to MayoClinic.com, results can be seen as soon as a few days following the procedure, or it may take up to six months to a year.
