With the transition from summer to fall, I get a lot of questions about hyperpigmentation. So, if you want to know more about it, its types, causes, and what to do, read on.
Hyperpigmentation is darkened patches or spots on the skin caused by overstimulated melanin production.
Hyperpigmentation can be divided into three types:
SUN-INDUCED HYPERPIGMENTATION is the most common. It includes sun spots or age spots that appear as dark, small, well-defined spots usually found in areas frequently exposed to the sun. These spots can be brown or black, and they're commonly seen on the face and hands. Recent studies have found that blue light from computer screens and other electronic devices can also cause damage to the skin.
POST-INFLAMMATORY HYPERPIGMENTATION can develop as a reaction to inflammation from injury, blemishes, or acne. These small, darkened spots can appear pink, red, or brown in color, and they can be found anywhere on the body, including the face.
MELASMA HYPERPIGMENTATION develops on the skin as a response to hormones, genetics, medications, and/or exposure to the sun. It appears as dark brown patches of pigment typically on the face, forehead, upper cheeks, and around the mouth. In most cases, it affects the deeper layer of the skin and is more difficult to treat.
Even though each type of hyperpigmentation has a different underlying cause, and could involve different treatment methods, all types could benefit from using the following:
Vitamin c is a powerhouse antioxidant. It fights free radicals to protect your skin from damage and can reduce and prevent the development of hyperpigmentation.
Chemical and enzymatic exfoliators or physical scrubs dissolve and loosen the skin cells, and remove dead skin, excess oil, and debris.
Broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, shields skin from harmful UV rays.
Retinol stimulates collagen production and accelerates cell renewal and repair.
Treatment Notes:
Sun-induced and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are less complex to treat because generally, the spots form closer to the surface of the skin. Here, using AHAs and other chemical exfoliants is safe and recommended. When it comes to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne or breakouts, the first step is preventing breakouts by treating the source of the acne-causing bacteria.
In the case of Melasma, using AHAs and other chemical exfoliants is not safe and not recommended as they can make this type of discoloration worse. Instead, use a gentler enzyme-based exfoliator.
If you spend time in front of a computer screen, or other digital devices consider applying a blue-light-fighting product throughout the day.
No topical treatment or in-office procedure can help remove or treat hyperpigmentation without serious UV protection. Sun exposure is the leading cause of hyperpigmentation, in addition to forming new dark spots and discolorations, sun exposure can also cause existing hyperpigmentation to darken and become more visible.
Hyperpigmentation is almost impossible to prevent entirely. We all spend time in the sun and get breakouts from time to time. And if you have a darker skin tone you are more susceptible to dark spots. One thing that you can do to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation is to commit to a daily skincare routine to keep your skin healthy. When your skin is properly cleansed, hydrated, and nourished, your skin barrier will be less vulnerable to damaging aggressors like free radicals that can result in physical changes such as discoloration, laxity, and premature wrinkles.
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