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Got spots of darker skin on your face? You're certainly not alone! If you're wondering what causes hyperpigmentation and how to properly deal with it, you're in the right place!
Although it's difficult to totally get rid of hyperpigmentation, there is hope! You can do things to minimize or avoid those annoying brown spots, blotchy complexion, and coarse texture, making your skin smoother and younger for a longer period. Let's get started and learn what hyperpigmentation is, what causes it, and how to treat it!
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is when the skin overproduces melanin, the substance that gives color to the skin. This causes dark spots or patches that can be found anywhere on the body. There are a number of different types of hyperpigmentation, such as:
- Sunspots (Solar Lentigines): They result from prolonged exposure to the sun and often occur on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun frequently, including the face, hands, and shoulders.
- Melasma: This form of hyperpigmentation is usually caused by hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy or on the use of birth control pills. It appears as large, symmetrical areas, usually on the face.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This follows a wound, acne flare, or inflammation and leaves the skin with dark spots. It is prevalent in individuals with darker skin types.
Causes of Hyperpigmentation
Following are the leading causes of hyperpigmentation:
- Sun Damage: UV radiation can cause premature aging and hyperpigmentation, leading to age spots. Indeed, as much as 80% of signs of premature aging are caused by sun exposure!
- Melasma (Chloasma): Darkening of the face due to hormonal changes, usually during pregnancy. It is frequently seen in pregnant women, earning it the nickname "mask of pregnancy.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Inflammation of the skin due to acne, eczema, or other inflammatory conditions can cause darker marks following healing.
- Underlying Medical Illnesses: Sometimes, hyperpigmentation can also be an indicator of an underlying medical condition such as Addison's disease. In case of doubts, you may always get an opinion from a doctor or a dermatologist.
How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation
Step 1: Sun Protection
It starts with preventing hyperpigmentation by blocking the sun. Apply sunscreen every day, applying an SPF of 30 or greater, and reapply every two hours. Apply extra coverage with a hat, sunglasses, and shade during the strongest time of day in the sun.
Step 2: Topical Treatments
Look for products that contain vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinoids. These will brighten areas of discoloration and suppress melanin production.
Step 3: Skincare Products That Help
CeraVe Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
When treating unwanted pigmentation, a gentle vitamin C serum is a daily necessity. Not only does this star serum perform with 10 percent pure vitamin C, but it also teams up hyaluronic acid and ceramides to soothe and hydrate irritation. The best part? It won't break the bank without sacrificing efficacy, and thus is an awesome alternative to more costly treatments.
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum is a complete game-changer in the battle against hyperpigmentation. The breakthrough serum features Melasyl, a patented molecule that directly addresses dark spots on any skin type, preventing new ones from forming. It also has niacinamide, which whitens and evens out your skin.
Apply a few drops to the face and neck after washing, morning and night, and wait for noticeable results.
Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Peel, $115
Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Peel brings professional chemical peel results to the comfort of home. This powerful blend of alpha-hydroxy acid, polyhydroxy acid, mandelic acid, and niacinamide helps fight dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Use it to whiten and exfoliate your skin, revealing an evenly toned complexion.
Step 4: Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid to exfoliate skin and remove pigmented cells. Mild peels can be done at home, but more intense peels require a dermatologist.
Step 5: Laser and Light Therapies
Light and laser therapies, including IPL and fractional laser therapy, annihilate pigmented lesions and break up melanin. All these are effective therapies but are best done by professionals.
Step 6: Microneedling
Microneedling uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen and reduce hyperpigmentation over time. It's particularly effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Step 7: Natural Remedies
Natural ingredients like aloe vera, turmeric, licorice extract, and green tea extract can also be helpful. These ingredients have skin-lightening, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that will reduce hyperpigmentation.
