Let’s be quite honest here, modern life lends itself to hyperpigmentation. If you’ve ever been in the sun without cream, ever had a nasty pimple or ever had the audacity to get older, you may experience hyperpigmentation. But, good news, there are simple solutions to this enduring problem. Here’s everything you need to know (including the number 1 way to prevent and our top 4 ways to treat) hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation is a normal, frequently occurring condition that makes some areas of the skin darker than others. The patches or spots can appear brown, black, pink or grey and are caused by an increase in melanin (the natural pigment that gives our skin its colour). Generally speaking, it’s a harmless, cosmetic problem but it can prove problematic if it impacts our self-esteem. There are three main causes of hyperpigmentation, some of which are easier to avoid than others.
While hyperpigmentation manifests in the same way, there are three common culprits:
Hyperpigmentation can occur anywhere on the body but is common in areas that are exposed to sunlight such as the face and shoulders. Hyperpigmentation on legs is common as many people who wouldn’t leave home without an SPF on their face are a little more lackadaisical when it comes to legs. Thankfully the treatments that work well on the face and shoulders are equally as effective on legs, stomach and anywhere else you may find darker patches.
While melasma, or hyperpigmentation caused by fluctuating hormones, can’t be avoided, sun or inflammation-induced hyperpigmentation most certainly can be. As with almost any health or skin condition, prevention is better than cure and the number one rule for preventing hyperpigmentation is daily SPF skincare.
If you experience hyperpigmentation as a result of inflammation then try your hardest to avoid touching that pimple. We get it, the urge can be strong, but doing so will increase inflammation and the likelihood of scarring and darker skin patches.
Add a protective SPF to your morning skincare regime and prevention can become a habitual practice. But, if you have hyperpigmentation right now and want to know how to lessen its effects, read on.
Good news, there are a number of ways you can effectively (and relatively easily) fade the appearance of hyperpigmentation. A good skincare regime with nurturing ingredients that encourage cell renewal will play a huge part in evening out your skin tone. Let’s delve a little deeper into four things you can do, today, to lessen the effects of hyperpigmentation.
It’s important to remember that hyperpigmentation is generally harmless. Protect your skin with a daily SPF and try to incorporate vitamin C and products that promote cell renewal into your daily routine but remember, you’re fabulous exactly as you are.
