Why Hyperpigmentation Caused by Microneedling
The question as to whether hyperpigmentation occurs due to microneedling is brought up repeatedly. The obvious question is that if “post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation” (PIH) is common in darker skin types, why would needling not be considered “high risk” in these patients, given that inflammation results with needling? The answer hinges around the degree and duration of inflammation. This response is typically not prolonged, nor is it as intense after needling when compared to other treatment modalities. Microneedling stimulates production of TGF-B3 which has anti-inflammatory effects. It also stimulates TGF-B1 which restricts pigment formation through downregulation of tyrosinase via decreased gene expression…