Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin problems affecting both men and women, and it typically worsens with age.
Understanding what it is and how to treat it effectively can make a significant difference.
In this article, we'll go through what you need to know.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
This can lead to darker, uneven patches that vary in intensity, from light brown to very dark brown, depending on your natural skin tone. It can also appear as red, pink, or even purple spots.
Causes of pigmentation
Understanding the causes of hyperpigmentation is key to preventing and treating it effectively. Here are the primary factors.
3 types of hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is generally divided into three main categories: melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and sun spots.
Melasma
Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or due to birth control pills, can lead to pigmentation problems.
Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes and manifests as large, dark patches, especially on the face.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
After skin injuries or inflammatory conditions such as acne or eczema, the skin can produce excess melanin as it heals, resulting in dark spots that can persist for months or even years.
Sun spots
Sun spots, also called solar lentigines or age spots, are caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause sun damage.
Sun spots commonly appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, and arms.
Can pigmentation be reduced?
The good news is that skin pigmentation can often be reduced or even removed through various treatments.
However, how effective these treatments are depends on the type of pigmentation and how severe it is.
How long does treatment take?
The time required to treat skin pigmentation varies depending on the type and severity of the condition as well as which treatment method is used.
With regular use, you can start to see noticeable improvements within 4 to 12 weeks. However, it can take several months of consistent use to achieve significant results.
At-Home Treatments
Topical creams and serums are often the first choice. Ingredients like Resveratrol, Retinol, Bio-Retinol, Vitamin C, and AHA are particularly effective for brightening dark spots by reducing melanin production and promoting cell turnover.
Consistent use of these treatments, along with sun protection, can gradually improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of pigmentation over time.
Resveratrol
This antioxidant is known for its ability to brighten pigmentation and even out skin tone.
It works by inhibiting melanin production, which is the pigment that causes dark spots.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a versatile skincare ingredient. It helps rebuild healthy skin cells while improving the skin's barrier function.
Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. By increasing ceramide production, it improves the skin's ability to retain moisture, leading to more hydrated and smoother skin.
Retinol and Bio-Retinol
Retinol and Bio-retinol are known for their ability to promote cell renewal, which is a key factor in treating pigmentation.
They help remove damaged outer skin layers and reveal new, fresh skin underneath. This process not only lightens dark spots but also improves skin texture and tone.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Enzymes
AHA and enzymes are natural exfoliating agents that remove dead skin cells and reveal new, fresh skin underneath.
AHA works by gently dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, causing them to loosen and leave behind a smoother and more radiant surface.
On the other hand, enzymes break down the dead skin cells, promoting skin renewal.
Regular use of products containing AHA and enzymes can lead to a more even skin tone and a brighter, more youthful appearance.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant known for its skin-enhancing properties.
It neutralizes free radicals that cause dullness and uneven skin tone, helping to give the skin more radiance.
Vitamin C also inhibits melanin production, reducing the appearance of pigmentation.
Professional treatments
For more stubborn pigmentation, cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels, laser treatments, light therapy, and microdermabrasion can provide faster and more noticeable results.
These treatments work by removing the outer layers of skin or directly targeting the melanin, thereby reducing the appearance of dark spots.
It's important to consult with a qualified professional to minimize risks and achieve the best results.
Consistently protecting the skin from sun exposure is also important to maintain these improvements and prevent future pigmentation.
Prevent pigmentation
Sun Protection
Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is crucial, as it protects the skin against harmful UV rays that stimulate melanin production.
By wearing protective clothing, hats, and seeking shade during the sunniest hours, exposure can be minimized further.
Evolve Climate Defence Facial Cream SPF 30 offers broad-spectrum protection against UV rays, pollution, and blue light.
Sun protection is crucial for preventing hyperpigmentation from returning and for maintaining the results of your skincare efforts.
Read more about natural sun protection in this comprehensive guide.
Recommended skincare routine for hyperpigmentation
To achieve a more even skin tone and reduce pigmentation, a good skincare routine is required.
1. Cleansing
Start your routine with cleansing to effectively remove dead skin cells and impurities.
Use a natural cleanser once or twice daily (always before bedtime). For an extra deep cleanse, incorporate an exfoliating mask once a week into your routine.
Fermented Rice Water Cleanser reduces dark spots and adds radiance with enzymes and acids.
Eco by Sonya Super Citrus Cleanser with Australian finger lime that is rich in natural AHA which has a mild exfoliating effect.
Evolve Enzyme + Vitamin C Cleanser Powder is a facial cleanser in powder form with papaya enzymes and vitamin C.
2. Toner
After cleansing, tone the skin with a product that exfoliates and/or refreshes.
A toner with glycolic acid helps remove dead skin cells and reveal fresher skin underneath.
Fermented Rice Water Toner for cleaner and clearer skin with willow bark, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
3. Serum & Face Cream
Next, apply a serum. Keep the skin moisturized by using both serum and a natural face cream afterwards.
Brightening Serum is a serum that brightens the skin and adds radiance with kojic acid, sake, fruit acids, vitamin C, and lemon peel.
For an extra boost, you can use specialized products such as:
Evolve Bio-Retinol + C Booster with Bio-retinol and vitamin C that counteracts fine lines, stimulates collagen production, and increases the skin's moisture levels.
Multi-Vitamin + Antioxidants Potent PM Serum with Retinol and niacinamide that increases collagen and elastin production and increases ceramide levels for moisture and smoothness.
Supplements for the skin
Supplements that can help improve skin health and appearance include:
Antioxidants, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
Vitamins B3 and B5 – a high-quality B-complex is also beneficial.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Zinc
Selenium
Beneficial gut bacteria
Read more about supplements for skin, hair, and nails in this comprehensive guide.
