Hyperpigmentation: an overview of the common afflictions

Dermatol Nurs. 2004 Oct;16(5):401-6, 413-6; quiz 417.

Abstract

Hyperpigmentation disorders of the skin are common. Three of the more common forms include melasma, lentigines, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Significant negative psychological consequences can result. Many therapeutic options exist, though treatment is often difficult, requiring lengthy therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chemexfoliation
  • Cryotherapy
  • Dermatologic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dicarboxylic Acids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hydroquinones / therapeutic use
  • Hyperpigmentation / classification
  • Hyperpigmentation / etiology*
  • Hyperpigmentation / psychology
  • Hyperpigmentation / therapy*
  • Inflammation
  • Keratolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Laser Therapy
  • Lentigo / etiology
  • Lentigo / therapy
  • Melanosis / etiology
  • Melanosis / therapy
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Primary Prevention
  • Risk Factors
  • Self Care
  • Sunlight / adverse effects
  • Tretinoin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Dermatologic Agents
  • Dicarboxylic Acids
  • Hydroquinones
  • Keratolytic Agents
  • Tretinoin
  • azelaic acid
  • hydroquinone