There are few skin conditions as frustrating and persistent as hyperpigmentation. Whether it's dark spots from sun exposure, marks left by acne, or the gradual emergence of melasma, the effects of hyperpigmentation can be distressing, affecting not only our physical appearance but also our self-confidence. In this article, we'll be delving into the causes of hyperpigmentation, which products are best to treat it, and how to prevent its reemergence.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Often described as the darkening of certain areas of the skin, hyperpigmentation is a common concern that affects individuals of all skin types and backgrounds.
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by several factors, the most common of which are:
Sun exposure- it comes as no surprise that so many people in Malta suffer from hyperpigmentation when we're dealing with intense UV rays all year round.
Hormones- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy and taking the birth control pill can cause dark spots to emerge on the skin.
Inflammation- Acne, ingrown hairs and insect bites can all leave behind dark spots once the inflammation has calmed down.
How can you treat it?
Peeling products
Products which contain AHAs (Alpha-Hydroxy Acids) chemically exfoliate the skin which helps to fade pigmentation. How quickly these products work will depend on how intense the hyperpigmentation is.
Glycolic acid is proven to be one of the most effective AHAs when it comes to fading pigmentation.
Avoiding skin barrier damage is crucial, a damaged skin barrier is more prone to hyperpigmentation. I recommend using ISDIN's GLICOISDIN range because the creams are made using partially neutralised glycolic acid and aloe vera to prevent damage.
If the thought of using exfoliating creams scares you then try a cleanser which contains AHAs such as Teoxane's AHA Cleansing Gel which combines glycolic acid, fruit acids and Resilient Hyaluronic Acid to deeply cleanse and exfoliate.
Antioxidant ingredients
One of the most highly researched ingredients when it comes to hyperpigmentation is Vitamin C. When used topically, research shows that Vitamin C can lighten spots over time. It also protects the skin from oxidative stress, which can help prevent hyperpigmentation in the long run!
The tricky part about finding the right Vitamin C product is that it oxidises quickly, making it difficult to find a serum which contains an effective and stable vitamin C.
Recently Uriage revamped its Depiderm range (a range which specifically targets hyperpigmentation) and released a new Anti-Dark Spot Brightening Booster Serum which contains a 20% stable Vitamin C complex and Niacinamide. This combination of ingredients works to effectively lighten hyperpigmentation, boost radiance and protect the skin.
Sun protection
Given that sun exposure is one of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation, it comes as no surprise that sun protection is important when it comes to preventing hyperpigmentation. But did you know that some sun protection products can treat existing hyperpigmentation while preventing it?
ISDIN Active Unify Fusion Fluid SPF 50+ is a sun protection product which provides double the UVA protection required for an SPF 50+ sunscreen. While it works on the surface to protect the skin, it works beneath the surface to unify thanks to a unifying complex which regulates melanin production. You can see results from as little as 1 month when using this product daily!
If you're more concerned with preventing hyperpigmentation because you know that you are prone to it, are undergoing hormonal changes, or undergoing treatments such as laser hair removal or chemical peels then ISDIN Spot Prevent Fusion Fluid SPF 50+ is the right product for you. It offers protection 3 times greater than the minimum required for an SPF 50+ sunscreen against UVA and UVB rays to prevent the appearance of spots.
Sun damage happens all year round, so don't wait until summer comes to start applying SPF daily!
What else can I do to prevent hyperpigmentation?
Avoiding sun exposure plays a significant role in protecting the skin from hyperpigmentation. Reapply your sun protection regularly and wear a hat when going out during peak sun hours.
It is also important not to cause any inflammation by picking at acne, scratching the skin or using harsh facial scrubs.
Do you have any tips which have helped you deal with hyperpigmentation? Leave them in the comments below or share them with us on our social media pages!
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