Hyperpigmentation: Treatment and Prevention
Sometimes it feels as though it happened overnight. One day you wake up to find an assortment of little dark spots on your skin, and they’re not cute. What you’re seeing is called hyperpigmentation.
These dark patches are the visible result of an over production of melanin. But where did they come from? They’ve reared their ugly head due to excess or unprotected sun exposure; sometimes even hormone fluctuations. So now what? Let’s look at our options for battling hyperpigmentation. Here's a hint: think prevention.
Daily Sun Protection
Dark or olive-toned skin is particularly susceptible to hyperpigmentation. Because laser treatments and deep peels are less effective for those with dark or olive-toned complexions, treating hyperpigmentation is incredibly difficult. This is why preventative skin care is absolutely imperative. Even if you don’t burn in the sun, you are still exposing your skin to the damaging affects of UVA/UVB rays. Unlike lighter complexions, which can reverse hyperpigmentation much easier, more often than not, darker complexions are left to suffer the consequences of not wearing SPF. Sunscreens are your first defense against hyperpigmentation.
An additional preventative and corrective tool for hyperpigmentation is the daily use of vitamin C and ferulic acid. Our favorite is Skinceutical’s CE Ferulic. Use this product daily under the sunscreen most appropriate for your skin type.
Increase Cellular Renewal
Olga Lorencin Skin Care's Red Carpet Facial Kit is another option for treating hyperpigmantation. The lactic and malic acid in the formulation turn over cells to reveal more refined, brighter and hydrated skin. With regular use, skin becomes clearer, discoloration diminishes, skin is oxygenated and pores nearly disappear. The finishing touch is the rejuvenating mask, which injects a healthy dose of minerals. This powerful blend of deeply hydrating, anti-aging ingredients increases cellular renewal, improving the health, texture and functionality of the skin.
Skin Lighteners
When it comes to correcting hyperpigmentation that already exists, look to serums that contain hydroquinone. Depending on the sensitivity of your skin, this lightening agent can work wonders to minimize the appearance of dark spots. If you happen to have sensitivity to hydroquinone, opt for gentler lighteners like kojic acid, AHA blends, or retinols. For additional information on specific lightening ingredients, take a peek at the following link: Skin-Lightening Ingredients.
In addition to the prior-mentioned, at-home solutions, there are in-spa treatments that can, with time, even out discoloration while improving the overall functionality and health of the skin. Light AHA peels, light to medium strength hydrafacials and dermabrasions are excellent options. Our Kinara Custom Facials are blended especially for your skin type, and while not every treatment is appropriate for everyone, our expert technicians will guide you on the way to your perfect skin.
Lightening discoloration from hyperpigmentation will not happen over night, but with consistency and a little patience even darker tones can see considerable transformation over time. And remember, prevention is the key!