Hyperpigmentation Causes, Prevention And Remedies
July 13, 2021
Dark spots, pigmentation on the face, uneven skin colour on lips, and dark skin around the mouth all are examples of hyperpigmentation. It is one of the most common concerns faced by many people.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is an increase in the pigmentation of the skin that results in uneven skin tone. To understand hyperpigmentation's meaning, we should know that pigmentation refers to melanin content in the skin.
It is a natural pigment that colours our skin, hair and eyes. The amount of melanin one's skin produces as well as the distribution of melanocytes(that produce melanin), is decided by genetics.
When the melanin-producing cells get affected, they produce excess melanin. Hyperpigmentation can affect any body part and is not only limited to the face. We will take a look at what causes hyperpigmentation and the steps we can take to reduce dark spots or patches once they have formed.
A host of factors can disturb melanin production resulting in a trigger, causing hyperpigmentation. Let us check them one by one.
Causes of Hyperpigmentation
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Sun Exposure
Sun exposure is one of the leading and major causes of hyperpigmentation on the face in the form of Melasma and PIH. Melanin is the primary defence barrier for protecting the skin from harmful UV rays.Harsh sunlight can trigger the overproduction of melanin. Constant and excessive sun exposure can distort this process, resulting in hyperpigmentation. Sun exposure can also aggravate existing pigmentation. -
Nutritional deficiencies
Hyperpigmentation may occur due to certain nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin B12 and/or iron deficiencies.. -
Hormones
Hormones can influence a particular kind of hyperpigmentation known as melasma or chloasma. Melasma is a condition in which large patches of hyperpigmentation develop. Hyperpigmentation may be one of the side effects of certain hormone treatments. -
Skin Inflammation
Hyperpigmentation resulting from any skin inflammation is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Skin inflammation such as acne, psoriasis or skin injury such as cuts, and burns may make the skin dark and discoloured once the wound or condition has healed. This usually fades over with time and may or may not fade away completely.
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Age
Age is also a contributing factor to hyperpigmentation on the face and body. The number of melanocytes decreases with age. Some experience changes in the increase of dark spots with age. -
Medication
Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a medical condition characterised by dark, velvety patches of the skin. It is usually related to conditions associated with insulin resistance. So hyperpigmentation on the neck, underarms or other folds of the body may be a sign of hyperpigmentation brought on by insulin resistance. Now that we know what are the causes of hyperpigmentation on the face and body, let us check how we can reduce or prevent it. As seen above, situations such as hormonal changes or age are often beyond the scope of topical skincare products. Hyperpigmentation in such cases can be reduced up to a certain extent although it can't be reduced fully. We can follow some methods or ways to get rid of hyperpigmentation or at least prevent it from worsening. Please remember, in the case of hyperpigmentation patience and precautions are the most important things to consider. It is believed that hyperpigmentation can't be cured permanently in some cases. However, the use of good and effective skincare products and practising sun safety measures can help a lot to get an even skin tone.
Ways To Prevent Hyperpigmentation
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Use Sun Protection
Sun exposure is a major reason for hyperpigmentation on the face and body. It also darkens any existing PIH and melasma. So using sun protection is the best way to prevent hyperpigmentation.Sun protection should not be limited to only summers but should be followed all around the year. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30 that protects from UVA and UVB. Sunscreens can prevent the formation of dark spots due to photodamage. You can also cover your skin outdoors with help of sunglasses, full-sleeved clothing or an umbrella to reduce hyperpigmentation. -
Eat A Well Balanced Diet
A well-balanced and nutritious diet can help in the replenishment of the body thereby reducing the free radical damage. So eat more fruits and vegetables as they have a lot of antioxidants that neutralise free radicals.. -
Follow a Good CTM Routine
Regularly following a CTTM (Cleanse, tone, treat, moisturise) routine helps to rejuvenate and protect the skin. Twice every day, cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser and follow up with toner and moisturiser to hydrate your skin. -
Do Not Pick At Your Acne
If you have acne-prone skin, never pick at your acne. It increases the chances of post-inflammatory pigmentation. Let the acne heal on its own or by using the anti-acne products in your skincare routine. Anti-acne products can help reduce the inflammation thereby reducing the chances of post-inflammatory pigmentation as well. -
Exfoliate
Regularly exfoliating your skin helps to reveal fresh, new skin cells while getting rid of the darker, dead skin cells. Using organic scrubs for exfoliation helps brighten and soften your skin while giving your skin an even tone. -
Use Skin Care Products for Hyperpigmentation
Include skin care products that have been formulated to address hyperpigmentation and are dermatologically tested. Ingredients like Rosehip oil and Kakadu plum that are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C help reduce pigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and reducing inflammation.
Juicy Chemistry's Products That Can Help With Hyperpigmentation
Juicy Chemistry Kakadu Plum & Pomegranate Organic Facial OilThis lightweight oil is nourishing and rich in vital nutrients and antioxidants. It helps improve the skin tone and texture while protecting the skin from free radicals. This face oil is suitable for all skin types however a patch test is recommended for acne-prone skin.
Juicy Chemistry Helichrysum & Rosehip Organic Facial Oil
This fast-absorbing oil is nourishing and helps improve skin health and skin tone. It is rich in antioxidant-rich plant oils such as Rosehip and Carrot Seed Oil. The face oil is suitable for all skin types except acne-prone skin.
Juicy Chemistry Kakadu Plum, Matcha & Blood Orange Organic Face Mask
This face mask is rich in vital vitamins and antioxidants. Kakadu Plum is one of the richest sources of vitamin C. Matcha and Hibiscus extracts are rich in antioxidants. Essential oils of Blood Orange and Grapefruit help reduce the impact of the sun and free radical damage.
Juicy Chemistry Cold Pressed Rosehip Seed Organic Carrier Oil
Rosehip oil is rich in Vitamin C and is an effective antioxidant. It helps to reduce the appearance of scarring, hyper-pigmentation, and skin damage. Rosehip oil is suitable for all skin types including sensitive & acne-prone skin types.
Juicy Chemistry Bulgarian Rose Water Organic Toning Mist
A hydrating, nourishing and brightening toner for the skin. Damask Rose distillate also helps balance the skin and restore pH. The toner is suitable for all skin types.
Vitamin C Brightening Serum:
A potent serum with cellular extracts of Kakadu Plum which is the richest natural source of Vitamin C. the hydrating serum is rich in natural antioxidants which help brighten and even out your skin.
FAQs
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How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?
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The appearance of hyperpigmentation can be reduced, but usually can't fade away completely. With or without professional help, some hyperpigmentation can be permanent. It might take 6 to 24 months to see visible changes in hyperpigmentation.
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Does vitamin C help with hyperpigmentation?
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Yes, vitamin C has exfoliating properties and it helps in removing dead skin cells. Vitamin C is also antioxidant-rich and helps to reduce free radical damage. Make sure to consistently use products that are dermatologically tested and formulated with vitamin C.
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Can Lemon remove dark spots?
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We do not recommend trying lemon on your face. It can irritate and disrupt the pH of the skin.
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What is the main reason for pigmentation?
- The main reason for pigmentation can be a combination of one or more triggers such as hormones, age, skin inflammation, and sun exposure.
Please remember not to try any DIYs or professional tools at home. Let patience prevail in case of hyperpigmentation.
nation of one or more triggers such as hormones, age, skin inflammation, and sun exposure.
Please remember not to try any DIYs or professional tools at home. Let patience prevail in case of hyperpigmentation.
References
https://www.longdom.org/peer-reviewed-journals/research-articles-on-pigmentation-disorders-7070.html
https://medlineplus.gov/skinpigmentationdisorders.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4142815/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5843359/
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjd.12536
