Skin Tips from the Experts: A Deep Dive into Hyperpigmentation

We asked our in-house experts, the Obagi Education team, to answer some of the most commonly asked questions we get about hyperpigmentation:

Can I get rid of the dark spots I have on my face?

One recommended option to treat dark spots and pigmentation is the use of prescription 4% hydroquinone, a tyrosinase inhibitor1, which is found in products such as the Obagi Nu-Derm® System and Obagi-C® Rx System.

Should I consider an in-office treatment to help my hyperpigmentation?

Your doctor will know best which treatments may be right for your skin type. He or she will know whether in office treatments, such as lasers and chemical peels, may benefit your skin.

Can I spot-treat dark spots on my face?

You should discuss your specific treatment with a skin care physician. In general, spot treating is not recommended. Should you choose to spot treat, you may be only treating one area of hyperpigmentation on your skin, while other visible or non-visible pigmentation may be ignored. That said, please always use your products as directed by your doctor.

Should I use hydroquinone, or a system like Obagi Nu-Derm, in the summertime?

Many of our practices and patients have reported using Obagi Nu-Derm, Obagi-C Rx, and other Obagi products and systems during different seasons, with great success. Your doctor can provide you with tips and tricks on how to help keep your unique skin healthy during the warm summer months or colder winter months. Your doctor can also help you learn how to incorporate your chosen Obagi products and systems into your lifestyle.

What’s the #1 thing I can start doing today to help prevent any future skin discoloration or dark spots?

The number one thing you can do today to help prevent future skin discoloration is to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen, every single day, rain or shine. UVA (aging) rays can penetrate through clouds, haze, and most glass, so remembering to apply your sunscreen is your best defense for helping to prevent future pigmentation concerns. Obagi has a wide variety of broad spectrum sunscreens to suit a variety of skin types and skin tones.