Having skin that is prone to hyperpigmentation means that breakouts leave you with dark marks and age spots appear often. Hyperpigmentation can occur when the skin is constantly exposed to sunlight or if the skin experiences any trauma or inflammation. Typically, when you’re exposed to the sun and trying to get a tan, the melanin distributes evenly. However, when melanin collects in one particular area, hyperpigmentation begins to occur. There are several things you can do to avoid hyperpigmentation because the truth is that once you have an area of the skin that has been darkened, it is difficult to reverse.
Your skin care routine can play a big role in avoiding hyperpigmentation. The most important skin care practice is to apply SPF daily despite the weather conditions. If you already have areas of the skin that have experienced hyperpigmentation, you want to be extra cautious when being exposed to the sun. You can also invest in a skin brightening cream that has SPF infused in it. By applying SPF daily, you will avoid activating melanin production.
If you have a breakout, make sure to avoid picking at the skin. Hyperpigmentation can form once you remove the first layer of skin. If you have already been picking your breakouts, there are a variety of topical treatments that you can apply to help lighten darkened areas. Look for products with ingredients such as azelaic acid, corticosteroids, hydroquinone, kojic acid, retinoids, such as tretinoin and vitamin C. If you have yet to purchase products with these ingredients, there are some home remedies that can work as well. Aloe Vera has helped with hyperpigmentation due to its compound aloesin. Aloesin works by inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin. Green tea extract may also help with hyperpigmentation due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
If topical ointments aren’t helping lighten your unwanted dark areas, you have a variety of cosmetic procedure to choose from. Common procedures intended to help with hyperpigmentation include laser therapy, intense pulsed light, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. However, it is important to note that you should first consult with a skin care specialist before moving forward with any of the procedure mentioned above.
Hyperpigmentation can happen to all skin types. The most common form are age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory. It is important to become aware of what these spots look like in order to treat your dark spots accordingly. Age spots are brown or black spots that typically appear on the face and hands while melasma can appear in large patches on the forehead, face, and stomach. People who experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation likely have acne or eczema. As a rule of thumb make sure to inspect your skin regularly for abnormalities and if you happen to notice any it is in your best interest to see a dermatologist.
