As we age, we may notice dark patches on our skin that were never there before. These patches are called hyperpigmentation, and they can be caused by various factors such as sun damage, hormonal fluctuations, and physical trauma.
Twenty years ago, hyperpigmentation was not a term we heard often, and a "healthy glow" was something we all aspired to have. However, with increased accessibility to information and scientific advancements, we now know that hyperpigmentation is a sign of skin damage, and that sun exposure is one of the main culprits.
In fact, Google searches for hyperpigmentation have increased by 400% in the past decade, indicating that more and more people are becoming aware of the issue. While it may seem daunting to tackle hyperpigmentation, there are plenty of ways to mitigate the damage and achieve a more even skin tone. However, it's important to remember that this is a complex process that requires consistency and patience. One month is not enough time to see a significant difference, and it may take several months before you start noticing improvements.
There are three main types of hyperpigmentation: sun damage, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Each type has different underlying causes, but the treatment options are similar. It's important to keep in mind that hyperpigmentation is not just a superficial issue, but something that starts deep within the layers of the skin. Therefore, a multifaceted approach is necessary to combat the problem.To make things easier, we've outlined a five-step plan that covers all the essential aspects of treating hyperpigmentation. We've also included two bonus steps that can help, but are not essential. Finally, we've provided a specific seven-day protocol that you can follow to address hyperpigmentation.
Step 1: Prevent
Preventing hyperpigmentation is the most important step you can take to manage the issue. Depending on the cause of the hyperpigmentation, there are different measures you can take. If you have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, avoid picking at pimples, as this can worsen the problem. If you have hormonal hyperpigmentation, talk to your healthcare provider to see if there are options to balance your hormones. However, regardless of the cause, using sunscreen is essential in preventing hyperpigmentation. You should also consider wearing protective clothing and seeking shade whenever possible.
Step 2: Inhibit
Inhibiting pigmentation from forming at deeper skin levels is essential in treating hyperpigmentation. There are two categories of products that can help with this: hydroquinone and other skin-brightening agents. Hydroquinone is considered the "gold standard" for pigment reduction, as it interferes with melanin production by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase. Other skin-brightening agents such as kojic acid, azelaic acid, and vitamin C can also be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation.
Step 3: Exfoliate
Exfoliation is essential in removing the top layer of dead skin cells, which can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. However, it's important not to over-exfoliate, as this can damage the skin barrier and worsen hyperpigmentation. Choose a gentle exfoliating product and use it once or twice a week.
Step 4: Repair
Repairing the skin barrier is essential in treating hyperpigmentation, as a damaged skin barrier can exacerbate the problem. Use a moisturizer that contains ceramides, which can help repair the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Step 5: Nourish
Nourishing the skin with antioxidants can help prevent further damage and promote healing. Look for products that contain ingredients such as green tea
To make things easier, we've outlined a five-step plan that covers all the essential aspects of treating hyperpigmentation. We've also included two bonus steps that can help, but are not essential. Finally, we've provided a specific seven-day protocol that you can follow to address hyperpigmentation.
Step 1: Prevent
Preventing hyperpigmentation is the most important step you can take to manage the issue. Depending on the cause of the hyperpigmentation, there are different measures you can take. If you have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, avoid picking at pimples, as this can worsen the problem. If you have hormonal hyperpigmentation, talk to your healthcare provider to see if there are options to balance your hormones. However, regardless of the cause, using sunscreen is essential in preventing hyperpigmentation. You should also consider wearing protective clothing and seeking shade whenever possible.
Step 2: Inhibit
Inhibiting pigmentation from forming at deeper skin levels is essential in treating hyperpigmentation. There are two categories of products that can help with this: hydroquinone and other skin-brightening agents. Hydroquinone is considered the "gold standard" for pigment reduction, as it interferes with melanin production by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase. Other skin-brightening agents such as kojic acid, azelaic acid, and vitamin C can also be effective in reducing hyperpigmentation. At the time of writing this article we currently stock a few INHIBITING products to support your skin journey. We have the Skintuitive 10% and 20% Vitamin C water free formulation that brightens, exfoliates, moisturises and repairs the skin this product is fits into a lot of the steps in this article but using it to inhibit the production of future pigmentation is ideal. The niacinamide and multi B gel are also Inhibitors and help on a cellular level to block the melanin from discolouring.
Step 3: Exfoliate
Exfoliation is essential in removing the top layer of dead skin cells, which can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. However, it's important not to over-exfoliate, as this can damage the skin barrier and worsen hyperpigmentation. Choose a gentle exfoliating product and use it once or twice a week. Once again were going to recommend the skintuitive vitamin C as the gold standard in
Step 4: Repair
Repairing the skin barrier is essential in treating hyperpigmentation, as a damaged skin barrier can exacerbate the problem. Use a moisturizer that contains ceramides, which can help repair the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Step 5: Nourish
Nourishing the skin with antioxidants can help prevent further damage and promote healing. Look for products that contain ingredients such as green tea
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