When it comes to skin concerns, a few things can be as frustrating as hyperpigmentation. Those stubborn dark spots that seem to pop up out of nowhere can feel like they’ve taken up permanent residence on your face.
And while they’re not harmful, they can be a source of insecurity, affecting how you feel when you look in the mirror or step outside without make-up.
What exactly is hyperpigmentation? And more importantly, why does it happen and how can we tackle it?
What Is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is simply the fancy term doctors use to describe areas of skin that have darkened in colour compared to the surrounding skin.
This happens when the skin produces too much melanin, the natural pigment responsible for giving your skin, hair and eyes their colour. The result?
Dark patches or spots can appear anywhere on the body but tend to be most noticeable on the face, neck and hands.
There are several types of hyperpigmentation:
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Often triggered by acne, eczema or even cuts and scrapes, it’s the skin’s way of reacting to trauma with an overproduction of pigment.
Sunspots (also called age spots or liver spots): These are the little brown spots that pop up after years of sun exposure, usually on areas that get the most sun, like your cheeks, nose and shoulders.
Melasma: Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or from birth control pills, can cause larger patches of darkened skin, especially on the face.
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns in South Africa, affecting men and women of all ages and skin tones.
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to treat, and those prone to it often need to manage it continuously. Dark marks may return even after they’ve been reduced.
Thankfully, the skincare world has come a long way in helping us tackle hyperpigmentation. Gone are the days when the only option was to cover up with layers of make-up.
Today, there are a variety of treatments and ingredients that work to fade those dark spots and restore your skin’s natural glow.
Experts at Lamelle Research Laboratories have shared some helpful tips on what to do – and what to avoid – when dealing with hyperpigmentation.
The Dos:
Find the root cause: Sun exposure is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation, but hormonal changes, certain medications and acne can also play a role. Consulting a dermatologist or skincare expert is essential to identify the cause and find the right treatment plan.
Limit sun exposure: To prevent further darkening of hyperpigmentation, avoid the sun during peak hours (10am to 2pm). If you have to be outdoors, wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and always apply sunscreen to your exposed skin.
Use proven skincare products: If you’re dealing with dark spots, choose skincare products specifically formulated for hyperpigmented skin. Invest in high-quality products backed by clinical research to help minimise pigmentation effectively.
Add vitamin C to your routine: Vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant with skin-brightening benefits. It protects the skin from sun damage and free radicals while reducing pigmentation and improving overall skin radiance.
The Don’ts:
Don’t skip SPF: Sun protection is critical for managing hyperpigmentation. Always apply SPF, even on cloudy days, to prevent dark marks from worsening. Skipping sunscreen can undo all your efforts to achieve an even skin tone.
Avoid DIY home remedies: Social media is full of DIY skincare advice, but not all of it is safe or effective. Home remedies like lemon juice or baking soda might do more harm than good.
Stick to dermatologist-recommended products and avoid experimenting with unproven treatments.
Don’t over-exfoliate: Excessive scrubbing won’t make pigmentation disappear. In fact, over-exfoliating can damage the skin’s barrier and worsen the problem. Opt for gentle, enzymatic exfoliators that won’t irritate your skin.
Don’t pick at your skin: Picking at blemishes can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where dark marks remain after pimples heal. To avoid this, resist the urge to touch or pick your skin, and use a treatment gel to help your skin heal without scarring.
Hyperpigmentation can be frustrating to manage, but it’s not impossible. With the right skincare products and lifestyle adjustments, you can reduce the appearance of dark marks and enjoy a more even complexion. Always consult a professional to find the best solutions for your skin.