Hyperpigmentation is a really common skin condition, which causes harmless
patches of uneven or darker skin. Pigmentation is most commonly found on
areas that are exposed to the sun, including the hands, arms, decolletage
and face. But while sun exposure is a common trigger, hormones and scarring
can also cause the overproduction of melanin, which leads to the development
of pigmentation.
Although hyperpigmentation is a harmless cosmetic condition, there are
products that can help to restore a brighter, clearer and more even looking
complexion by targeting areas of pigmentation and preventing new patches
from developing.
Apply Sunscreen Daily
It's impossible to get rid of hyperpigmentation unless you're also
preventing new pigment from developing. Incorporating a broad-spectrum SPF
into your morning skincare routine is a really important step, as it'll
protect your skin from the UV and visible light that can cause pigmentation
to develop.
There are many high-quality SPF products, including the Ultra Facial UV
Defense SPF50 from SkinCeuticals. It's formulated with innovative UV
filters, which help to protect against UV-induced dark spots and collagen
breakdown. If you prefer a tinted SPF, the Obagi Sun Shield Tint Broad
Spectrum SPF50 comes in a cool and a warm version to suit different skin
tones.
Use A Vitamin C Serum
Another step you can take is to use a vitamin C serum underneath your SPF
every morning. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant which can inhibit the
production of pigmentation in the skin.
The Medik8 Super C Ferulic serum is an excellent, highly stable option which
can help you achieve a more radiant, younger-looking complexion. The Obagi
Professional-C 15% serum is another popular option and is formulated with
pure L-ascorbic, which is the gold standard form of vitamin C.
Encourage Cell Turnover With Retinol
Retinol is brilliant at helping to get rid of hyperpigmentation, including
age spots, sun spots, and post-inflammatory scarring. It's an ideal
ingredient to incorporate into your evening skincare routine, as it can get
to work as your skin is in repair mode overnight.
The Obagi Retinol + PHA Refining Night Cream contains 0.3% retinol, which
will refine skin texture while you sleep. Medik8's Intelligent Retinol
Smoothing Night Cream is another great option with repairing and protecting
properties.
Explore The Brightening Properties Of Azelaic Acid
A favourite ingredient amongst dermatologists, azelaic acid is great for
calming rosacea, minimising redness, clearing acne, and contributing to the
reduction of hyperpigmentation. It's a multi-functional ingredient, as it
can gently exfoliate the skin, soothe inflammatory conditions, and help to
inhibit melanin production.
The Phyto A+ Brightening Treatment from SkinCeuticals is a hydrating yet
non-oily moisturiser which contains 3% Azelaic acid that's clinically proven
to balance the skin and improve the appearance of pigmentation and
discolouration.
Try Niacinamide or Vitamin B3
Niacinamide is a popular skincare product ingredient, as it can help to
reduce inflammation and prevent pigment from transferring to skin cells.
This skin-boosting ingredient is suitable for all skin types and can be used
in conjunction with other targeted ingredients, including vitamin C, azelaic
acid and retinol.
The SkinCeuticals Discolouration Defense Serum is formulated with a
selection of anti-discolouration ingredients, including niacinamide, which
work together to improve brightness and reduce pigmentation by as much as
60% in just a few weeks.