Do you struggle with Hyperpigmentation? Come close, I have something for you 😊
So hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that results in certain areas of the skin becoming darker than the surrounding areas, and while it’s not usually harmful, hyperpigmentation can be frustrating for those who experience it, and I understand.
Which is why I have come up with this article to help you understand what hyperpigmentation is, and how you can manage this skin concern.
So without delay, let’s dive in!
Common Causes of Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation usually occurs due to an overproduction of melanin (pigment responsible for your skin colour). This usually happens when melanin clumps together, causing dark patches or spots on the skin.
There are several triggers behind hyperpigmentation, and one of them is sun exposure. The sun produces ultraviolet (UV) rays which stimulate melanocytes which are the cells responsible for producing melanin. So over time, repeated sun exposure could lead to uneven patches or spots, often referred to as sunspots or age spots.
Another cause of hyperpigmentation is Inflammation. Skin trauma from acne, eczema, or even cuts can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This is often seen in people with darker skin tones, where any skin irritation can leave a lingering dark spot.
Next is Hormonal changes, and this is common especially in women. Melasma, also known as the “mask of pregnancy,” is often linked to pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy, and it can result in brown or gray patches, usually on the face.
Some other medications and even certain health conditions like Addison’s disease are also linked to hyperpigmentation as these can increase melanin production and result in widespread darkening of the skin.
Now that we’ve identified the possible culprits, let’s explore further into the different types of hyperpigmentation.
Types of Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation comes in different forms depending on its causes and appearance, but the main types are;
Melasma
As I mentioned earlier, this is typically linked to hormonal changes, and can appear as broad, symmetrical patches on the face. So think of the many conditions that can cause significant changes in your hormones, things like pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or even stress.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
This usually occurs after skin trauma or inflammation. When these conditions heal, they can leave dark spots in the area where the skin was irritated causing some sort of hyperpigmentation.
Sunspots
These are small, flat, darkened areas that occur due to prolonged sun exposure. They are often seen on the face, hands, and other sun-exposed areas, and can also be a form of hyperpigmentation.
So how can you get rid of hyperpigmentation?
This is where things get interesting, so stay with me.
Brightening Serums with Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Licorice Extract
If you’re looking to fade dark spots, brighten your overall complexion, or simply even-out skin tone, then brightening serums are a great starting point. These products target pigmentation at the source by inhibiting melanin production and helping fade existing spots over time.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most popular ingredients for brightening the skin and this is due to its antioxidant properties. As an antioxidant, this vitamin helps neutralize free radicals that contribute to skin damage and discoloration. It also inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production.
What this means is that regular or consistent use of a Vitamin C serum can help you achieve a more radiant complexion and gradually fade dark spots.
Niacinamide
This is the scientific name for Vitamin B3, and is another star ingredient for healthy skin.
Niacinamide is a multi-functional powerhouse known for its ability to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, strengthen the skin barrier, and also soothe inflammation. It typically works by interfering with the transfer of melanin to skin cells, making it a useful option for preventing and treating dark spots.
However, these two vitamins are not from natural sources and are often formulated, except, of course, you get them from your diet (fruits and vegetables).
So for those interested in natural ingredients, there is something else that you can try, and that is Licorice extract.
Licorice extract
Licorice contains glabridin, a compound that helps brighten the skin by inhibiting the enzyme that triggers melanin production. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Note that, when selecting a serum, you don’t need to stick to just one of these ingredients. In fact, many formulas and skincare products combine them for enhanced results. For instance, a product containing Vitamin C and Niacinamide can offer both antioxidant protection and a reduction in dark spots, while licorice extract can further boost brightness.
So, it’s all about knowing how to properly combine these ingredients in order to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Exfoliating Treatments for Fading Dark Spots: AHAs and Retinoids
Serums aren’t the other options for getting rid of hyperpigmentation. Exfoliation also plays a key role as it encourages skin cell turnover, which helps fade dark spots over time.
Chemical exfoliants are especially effective because they dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed more easily. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid, for instance, are among the most effective exfoliants for treating hyperpigmentation, and this is because they exfoliate the skin’s surface, helping to fade dark spots and improve overall texture.
Glycolic acid, in particular, penetrates the skin deeply and promotes cell renewal, making it effective in treating stubborn pigmentation.
However, while exfoliation is beneficial, it’s important not to overdo it. Too much exfoliation can damage the skin barrier, leading to increased irritation and potentially worsening hyperpigmentation, so be careful not to exfoliate excessively.
Retinoids, which are derivatives of Vitamin A, are another powerful option. This is due to their ability to increase cell turnover and encourage the production of new skin cells. Retinoids also stimulate collagen production, which helps smooth out fine lines and improve skin texture.
Sun Protection: Preventing Further Pigmentation with SPF
Permit me to say that no hyperpigmentation treatment is complete without sun protection. UV exposure is the primary cause of pigmentation issues, so without adequate protection, even the best skincare routine can be rendered ineffective.
For this reason, Sunscreen is deemed necessary for preventing further darkening of existing spots and stopping new ones from forming.
If you don’t have a sunscreen yet, make sure to get one that is broad-spectrum with SPF 30 or higher. This will help shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide also offer physical protection, while chemical filters like avobenzone and octinoxate absorb UV radiation.
Note that it’s not enough to just apply sunscreen in the morning. You’ll need to keep reapplying every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors. Also, if you wear makeup, consider using a powder or spray sunscreen for easier touch-ups.
You could also pair your sunscreen with protective clothing, hats, or sunglasses to provide an extra layer of defense.
Before you go…..
Remember that hyperpigmentation is one multifaceted skin concern that can be addressed with a combination of targeted treatments. So I don’t advise sticking to only one ingredient, at least if you want to get rid of hyperpigmentation in time.
Also, understanding the causes and types of hyperpigmentation is only the first step, taking a comprehensive approach to managing it is another. As long as you remain consistent with the approach that you have chosen, then you can gradually achieve a more even, radiant complexion while minimizing the risk of new pigmentation issues arising.
