Acne And Hyperpigmentation Treatment: Q & A With Dr. Zahra Shah

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your skin pores become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples, and usually appears on the face, forehead, chest and upper back.

We sat down with Dr. Zahra Shah, one of the leading dermatologists in Karachi to discuss acne and hyperpigmentation treatment. In this session, she explains the reasons behind acne breakouts alongside giving expert advice on the treatment.

Q.1. What are acne and its type?

Alright look, acne occurs when pores react with oxygen and become infected as a result. And we mostly get confused between the difference between acne and pimple. Infected acne is a pimple. 

Acne is largely divided into two types; inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. Non-inflammatory acne includes whiteheads, blackheads. Inflammatory acne includes papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts.

Q.2. What are the causes of acne?

Well, when the pore becomes clogged, acne occurs. And why do the pores become clogged? Well, that is due to the excessive production of oil, bacteria and hormonal changes.

Q.3. Does acne cause hyperpigmentation on face?

Yes, of course! Acne causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is a natural reaction to what happens when the acne starts to heal and disappear. The acne heals but leaves a mark and that is what is termed as hyperpigmentation.

There are some things that can aggravate your acne such as excessive sun exposure, hormonal diseases, and aging.

Q.4. What is the best treatment for hyperpigmentation?

Well, we can certainly take care of our skin and slow down hyperpigmentation. Limit your sun exposure and drink as much as 12 to 14 glasses of water daily. Also, get a good sunblock, sleep well and use a night-time repair cream.

If you have deep-seated hyperpigmentation, also known as melasma, you have to go for a laser treatment. For melasma, we recommend a few sessions of pico laser. It’s really effective for melasma.

If you want to learn more acne and hyperpigmentation treatment, watch the full interview or consult a dermatologist to know what treatment option suits your needs.

At oladoc, we can help you find a dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Multan. You can also call our helpline 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.