Can You Prevent or Treat IGH?
Since IGH is linked to sun exposure and aging, the best prevention is sun protection:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily on exposed skin
Wear protective clothing when outdoors for long periods
Avoid tanning beds entirely
As for treatment: There’s no guaranteed way to make existing IGH spots disappear, but some people have success with:
Topical retinoids – May help stimulate pigment production
Cryotherapy – Freezing can sometimes trigger repigmentation (results vary)
Microneedling – Some evidence suggests it may help
Topical steroids – Prescribed by a dermatologist in some cases
Important: These treatments should only be pursued under a dermatologist’s guidance. What works for one person may not work for another.
When to See a Doctor
While IGH is harmless, it’s always wise to have new or changing skin spots checked by a professional. See a dermatologist if:
The spots are changing in size, shape, or color
