What is Hyperpigmentation Anyway?
At some point most of us will experience irregular pigmentation in our skin. This issue will typically show up as either dark spots, brown splotches, and sometimes what looks to be a dark, patchy mask that covers the upper half and sides of the face. It's important to understand the root causes of hyperpigmentation in order to determine how to treat it and set expectations for treatment outcome.
Types of Hyperpigmentation:
Post inflammatory - caused by trauma to the skin such as acne breakouts, cuts, scrapes and aggressive facial treatments.
Melasma - develops from hormonal changes in the body such as pregnancy, menopause or the use of birth control or hormone replacement.
Solar Lentigos - the most common type and is caused by excessive sun exposure. The sun damage that we incurred in our younger years begins to show up as we age and so this type of hyperpigmentation can seem to show up even when you have currently been diligent about SPF and protection from sun.
It's important to work with a professional who understands the types and causes of your hyperpigmentation so that it can be effectively treated. In many cases a person can have all 3 types! Treatment is not a one size fits all and there is no true miracle serum that will handle it long-term. Hyperpigmentation is a slow-and-steady-wins-the race approach. If you go at it with a heavy hand and harsh treatments, you can stimulate more of it!
Home Care Suggestions
Gentle daily cleanser. No acids, soap or scrubs.
Very gentle exfoliation with enzymes no more than once per week.
Regular skin lightening products like Vitamin C and Vitamin A
A good daily moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type
And YES! Mineral based SPF is the most important element in pigmentation prevention.
Also consider getting regular professional treatments with Revitapen nano needling and Retinaldehyde to help reduce pigmentation over time. Plus Revitapen + retinaldehyde will stimulate new collagen, smooth fines and plump the skin! Ask me more! I’m happy to coach you.
Additional resource: 302 Mineral Moisturizer with 30 SPF and beautifully tinted zinc oxide so that your mineral sunscreen never looks ghostly on your skin.
