Hyperpigmentation

28 min read

Understanding Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melanin accumulates in the skin, causing dark patches or spots. The enzyme tyrosinase regulates melanin production, which can be overstimulated by factors like UV exposure, acne, hormonal changes, or skin injuries, leading to uneven pigmentation.

⬑ Freckles & Brown Spots

⬑ Melasma

Conditions Across Life Stages

Lifestyle-Induced Hyperpigmentation

Factors like sun exposure, poor skincare habits, stress, and diet can cause uneven skin tone, dark patches, and worsened pigmentation over time. Lifestyle-related hyperpigmentation often progresses gradually, becoming more pronounced with repeated UV exposure and inflammation.

⬑ Dark patches caused by prolonged sun exposure and lifestyle habits

⬑ Pigmentation worsened by improper skincare, stress, and environmental triggers

Pregnancy Hyperpigmentation

Pregnancy can trigger hormonal melasma — larger, diffused patches of hyperpigmentation on the face, neck, and body due to increased melanin production. These patches darken further with UV exposure and may persist post-pregnancy if untreated.

⬑ Hormonal melasma commonly seen during pregnancy

⬑ Darkened patches from hormonal changes and UV exposure

Adulthood Hyperpigmentation

In adulthood, hyperpigmentation often results from hormonal fluctuations, stress, and sun exposure, leading to brown spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Without targeted treatment, these darkened patches may become more persistent over time.

⬑ Hormonal pigmentation from stress, UV exposure, and lifestyle factors

⬑ Stubborn melasma and pigmentation deepened by neglect and environmental damage

Senior Hyperpigmentation

As the skin ages, age spots (solar lentigines) develop due to cumulative UV exposure, slowed cell turnover, and oxidative stress. These darkened patches often appear on the face, hands, and arms, becoming more resistant to fading over time.

⬑ Age spots commonly seen on sun-exposed areas like the hands and face

⬑ Darkened pigmentation from years of accumulated UV exposure

Common Conditions

Freckles (Ephelides)

Small, flat, and darkened spots are primarily caused by genetics and tend to darken with sun exposure, especially in individuals with fair skin. They become more prominent during sun exposure due to increased melanin production.

⬑ Freckles from day-to-day UV exposure

⬑ Development of genetic freckles after UV exposure

Brown Spots

Brown spots, or liver spots, are darker patches that develop over time, primarily from cumulative sun exposure and the natural aging process. These spots result from increased melanin production due to UV damage.

⬑ Brown spots from UV exposure

⬑ Age-related brown spots from untreated UV exposure

Melasma

Melasma appears as larger, diffused patches, often associated with hormonal changes, particularly in women. It can be triggered by factors such as pregnancy, hormonal therapies, or sun exposure, with certain hormonal shifts causing increased melanin production in the skin.

⬑ Melasma patches commonly linked to hormonal changes

⬑ Melasma patches triggered by neglect, UV exposure, and hormonal fluctuations

Age Spots (Solar Lentigines)

Age spots are dark patches caused by excess melanin production from UV exposure, aging, and oxidative stress. While generally harmless, they can affect skin tone and may be treated for a more even complexion.

⬑ Age spots common on the face and hands

⬑ Darkened age spots from UV exposure, and genetic factors

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

PIH refers to dark spots that appear after skin inflammation caused by conditions like acne, eczema, or physical trauma. It occurs when melanin is overproduced in response to injury or irritation, leading to pigmentation.

⬑ Dark spots from skin inflammation caused by acne or trauma

⬑ PIH marks developing after inflammation from acne or eczema

We're here to help you manage your skin concerns.

At Folke®, we address skin concerns at the root for lasting results. Our painless, non-invasive, customised plant-tech approach protects your skin and health, delivering visible, personalised improvements backed by over 20 years of expertise.

Disclaimer

At Folke®, we offer treatments and skincare products designed to support skin health, with results varying based on factors like skin type, conditions, lifestyle, and treatment adherence. Our information is based on in-clinic observations, client experiences, and published academic materials. While claims and comparisons to mainstream therapies reflect general research, reactions to treatments can vary. Not every patient will experience the same results, and some may tolerate treatments better than others. Folke®, its founder Charles Ng, staff, and representatives are not responsible for discrepancies or differing opinions. This content is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While Folke® is committed to high-quality treatments and products for skin concerns, individual outcomes may vary. The effectiveness of our treatments depends on various factors, and Folke® cannot guarantee specific results for every client. We encourage clients to consult with our professionals to set realistic expectations tailored to their needs. This information should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

Academic References:

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Solano F, “Melanins: Skin pigments and much more—types, structural models, biological functions, and formation routes.” New Journal of Science 2014 (2014): 1-28.

Passeron T et al., “Melasma pathogenesis and treatments.” Dermatologic Clinics 32, no. 3 (2014): 291-299.

Katsambas A et al., “Hyperpigmentation and melasma treatment strategies.” Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 23, no. 7 (2009): 751-760.

Grimes PE et al., “Melasma: Etiologic and therapeutic considerations.” Archives of Dermatology 141, no. 1 (2005): 89-93.

Lim JT et al., “Sun protection and prevention of hyperpigmentation.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 82, no. 5 (2020): 1236-1245.

Boonchai W et al., “Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Risk factors and prevention.” International Journal of Dermatology 55, no. 5 (2016): 487-495.

Sardana K et al., “Rebound pigmentation and its management in hyperpigmentation disorders.” Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology 85, no. 3 (2019): 243-250.

Handog EB et al., “Challenges in the management of hyperpigmentation: Prevention and treatment.” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 9, no. 1 (2016): 15-24.

Briganti S et al., “Melanin: What is it and how is it produced?” International Journal of Cosmetic Science 25, no. 6 (2003): 279-289.

Grimes PE et al., “Histologic changes in hyperpigmented skin.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 55, no. 5 (2006): 768-775.

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Aldahan AS et al., “Topical treatments for melasma and hyperpigmentation.” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 11, no. 2 (2018): 19-23.

Alvarez OM et al., “Botanical extracts for skin lightening: Efficacy and safety.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 17, no. 6 (2018): 1067-1074.

Draelos ZD et al., “Efficacy of natural ingredients in anti-pigmentation and skin lightening.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 18, no. 6 (2019): 586-591.

Nistico SP et al., “Efficacy of botanical formulations for managing hyperpigmentation.” Journal of Dermatological Treatment 31, no. 4 (2020): 395-402.

Sivamani RK et al., “Natural alternatives for treating hyperpigmentation and skin inflammation.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 18, no. 8 (2019): 788-794.

Hassim Z et al., “Hormonal influences on hyperpigmentation: A comprehensive review.” International Journal of Women’s Dermatology 6, no. 2 (2020): 73-82.

Rodriguez CI et al., “Role of oxidative stress in hyperpigmentation: Mechanisms and treatments.” Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 12, no. 4 (2019): 28-35.

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Nistico SP et al., “Topical retinoids and inflammation: A review.” Dermatologic Therapy 34, no. 2 (2021): e14830.

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Clearer Skin, Lasting Confidence

Folke’s plant-tech solutions treat hyperpigmentation at its root, promoting long-term clarity by working with the skin’s natural processes for lasting results; without rebound pigmentation, redness, skin thinning, or sensitivity.

Like fingerprints, every client is unique. Folke’s plant-tech approach combines botanical formulations and non-invasive technologies, tailoring solutions unique to your skin condition, history, and lifestyle for targeted, effective care — without drugs, medication, or harsh procedures.

Painless, Plant-Tech Approach

We combine potent yet gentle plant-based formulations with non-invasive technologies to treat hyperpigmentation at its root—targeting melanin production and inflammation, not just surface lightening. Without numbing creams, our customised solutions deeply inhibit pigment-forming enzymes, preventing spread and rebound pigmentation for lasting clarity and an even skin tone.

⬑ Customised set of botanical formulations unique to you on every visit

⬑ Gentle, non-invasive and painless technological approach to deliver botanicals deep into the skin

Targets Pigmentation Root Cause

Mainstream treatments use harsh chemicals or lasers, risking irritation and sensitivity. Folke’s plant-tech approach regulates tyrosinase activity, the key driver of excess melanin, addressing pigmentation at its root. This ensures a safer, faster, and more sustainable solution without compromising skin integrity or causing rebound pigmentation.

⬑ Before the first Folke treatment: Over two decades of hyperpigmentation and age spots observed on the client’s skin

⬑ After the first Folke treatment: Hyperpigmentation and age spots lightened, skin brightened and hydrated, all without irritation or post-treatment redness

Limits Spread and Rebound Pigmentation

Folke’s preventive approach targets melanin overproduction at its source, reducing the risk of spreading and recurrence. By stabilising tyrosinase activity and minimising inflammation, our plant-tech treatments confine pigmentation to existing areas, ensuring even, gradual lightening without cell dispersion, preserving skin health and achieving a more unified skin tone.

⬑ Before Folke treatment: Sustainable lightening and reduced spread of stubborn melasma following prior treatment with Folke

⬑ After Folke treatment: Consistent success in lightening and limiting the spread of stubborn melasma across affected areas without compromising outdoor activities

No Lifestyle Limitations

Folke’s hyperpigmentation treatments fit seamlessly into daily life, without strict sun avoidance or complex aftercare. Clients experience gradual lightening and a more even skin tone while maintaining their lifestyle. With a simple skincare routine, results remain sustainable, ensuring long-term skin health without disruption.

⬑ Confident every day

⬑ Live life with no lifestyle limitations

Lasting Results, Without Compromise

Unlike mainstream treatments requiring strict aftercare and frequent touch-ups, Folke’s plant-tech approach targets hyperpigmentation at its root while preserving skin health. By regulating melanin production without dispersing pigmented cells, it prevents spread and rebound, delivering progressive lightening, an even skin tone, and sustainable clarity without lifestyle restrictions or harsh procedures.

⬑ Our clients enjoy a straight-forward and hassle-free anti-pigmentation approach.

⬑ Our clients enjoy sustainable skin clarity with lasting results, lightening pigmentation, limiting its spread, and embracing peace of mind