Hyperpigmentation is not just a cosmetic concern but a true aesthetic challenge. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hyperpigmentation affects about 50% of individuals over 35 years old, regardless of gender. The appearance of dark spots can have a significant impact on your appearance, undermining your confidence and causing anxiety. While many home remedies and DIY solutions are available, they often prove ineffective or even harmful. To truly address this issue and restore your skin's natural radiance, a professional approach and understanding of the causes of this problem are essential.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a biological process in which certain areas of the epidermis become darker in colour due to an excessive accumulation of the pigment melanin. As we age, cell turnover slows down and melanin-producing cells may work unevenly. Exposure to ultraviolet light, hormonal changes and inflammatory processes can also trigger over-activity of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin.
There are several main types of dark marks on the skin:
- Post-inflammatory (or post-acne) spots: These appear after inflammation or injury and can vary in color and shape depending on the severity of the damage.
- Sun-induced pigmentation (Sun Spots): Occurs as a result of prolonged or intense exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
- Chloasma (or "mask of pregnancy"): Appears as symmetrical patches of pigment on the face, usually on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip.
- Melasma: Similar to chloasma and linked to hormonal changes, often seen in women during pregnancy or when taking hormonal medications.
- Lentigo (or age spots): Small dark patches that can appear on different parts of the body, often associated with aging.
Causes of Dark Spots
Understanding the main causes of excess pigmentation will help you choose the most effective methods and products for correction and prevention. The most common factors include:
- Hormonal and Age-Related Changes: Hormonal fluctuations and the general slowing of cellular processes can lead to uneven melanin distribution and the formation of dark spots.
- Ultraviolet Radiation: Sun exposure stimulates melanin production to protect the epidermis from burns and damage. Without proper protection, melanin can accumulate excessively in certain areas, causing pigmentation.
- Inflammations and Damage: Dark marks can arise from inflammation or damage, such as acne, cuts, burns, or other injuries. During the healing process, melanin production may exceed normal levels, leading to pigmented marks on the epidermis.
How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation
Prevention is the key to fighting the problem of skin discoloration. In order to minimise the risk of developing this problem, it is important to follow these simple but effective recommendations:
- Use Sunscreen Regularly: Apply a high SPF sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. Sun exposure is a major cause of pigmentation problem, so protecting yourself from its harmful effects is important all year round.
- To learn more about SPF and how to choose a sunscreen, read our article "How to choose a sunscreen".
- Support Skin Barrier: Use antioxidant-rich, moisturizing skincare products to maintain a healthy epidermal barrier. A strong barrier reduces the possibility of inflammation, irritation and micro-injuries that can lead to excess pigmentation.
- Maintain Overall Health: Minimising stress and having regular medical check-ups to monitor hormone levels also play an important role in preventing pigmentation and supporting overall health.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment
If dark marks have already appeared, it's important to choose the right skincare products to remove them. Yulia Kroutman, FeelBe's professional cosmetologist, recommends the following five products for the effective care and treatment of skin discoloration at home:
- Skin Whitening Cream, GIGI: A highly effective product with a rich concentration of active ingredients that quickly and consistently evens out skin tone. Suitable for sensitive areas.
- Depigmenting Cream, Renew: A cream based on plant whitening extracts that can be used all year round. It helps break down excess melanin and suppresses the activity of melanin-producing cells.
- Triple + Serum, Illuminating Line: A gentle serum that prevents and reduces the appearance of pigmentation. Combines innovative and natural ingredients for deep skin lightening.
- White Bright Orchid Cream, SR Cosmetics: Offers both brightening and skin repair in one product. It helps to lighten out and repair various damage caused by stress and environmental factors.
- Pigment Reduce, Kart: Contains unique complexes using microencapsulation technology. Features a blend of kojic and lactic acids with plant extracts to normalize melanin production and combat imperfections, suitable for darker skin tones.
Unlock the secret to beautiful skin today! Visit our web-store to find the best products for hyperpigmentation and receive personalized recommendations from FeelBe’s professional cosmetologist.
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