Hyperpigmentation, a common and often perplexing skin condition, transcends age, gender, and skin types, casting its shadow on the quest for a flawless complexion.
So, “Can hyperpigmentation be cleared?” In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricate realm of pigmentation treatment, specifically focusing on hyperpigmentation, to unravel its multifaceted causes. Together, we’ll explore practical strategies not only to treat but also to prevent hyperpigmentation, offering insights and advice for maintaining skin health that emanates a natural, radiant glow.
Highlights:
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
What Are the Main Causes of Hyperpigmentation?
What Are the Best Preventive Measures for Hyperpigmentation?
Evolution of Skin Whitening Products for Hyperpigmentation
Which Ingredient Is Best for Hyperpigmentation?
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation, or skin pigmentation, is a common skin condition characterized by darkening certain areas, resulting in uneven skin tone. This occurs due to the excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. While hyperpigmentation itself is not harmful, it can pose cosmetic concerns, affecting one’s self-esteem and confidence.
4 Common Types of Skin Pigmentation or Hyperpigmentation
1. Sunspots or Age Spots
Characterized by their appearance as flat, brown, or grayish patches on the skin’s surface, sunspots, or age spots, they materialize as a consequence of prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
These patches, indicative of photodamage, often manifest on areas of the skin that have undergone significant sun exposure, serving as visible reminders of the skin’s response to UV radiation.
2. Melasma
Melasma presents itself in the form of symmetrical, brown to gray-brown patches, commonly associated with hormonal changes.
This intricate skin condition often unfolds during periods of increased hormonal activity, such as pregnancy or when influenced by certain hormonal medications. The symmetrical nature of melasma distinguishes it from other forms of hyperpigmentation, adding a layer of complexity to its appearance.
3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) emerges as darkened areas on the skin, a consequence of previous skin injuries or instances of inflammation.
This condition is a testament to the skin’s healing process, where increased melanin production follows an inflammatory response. Consequently, areas once affected by cuts, burns, or acne may retain pigmentation alterations even after the initial injury or inflammation has subsided.
4. Hormonal Hyperpigmentation
Hormonal Hyperpigmentation manifests as the darkening of the skin, directly influenced by hormonal fluctuations within the body.
This form of hyperpigmentation often surfaces during periods of hormonal surges, such as pregnancy, menopause, or when undergoing certain hormonal treatments. The skin’s response to hormonal changes involves an upregulation of melanin production, contributing to the observable darkening of specific areas on the skin.
What Are the Main Reasons of Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation, characterized by the darkening of certain areas on the skin, is a common skin concern that arises from various factors. Understanding the root causes of hyperpigmentation is pivotal in developing effective treatment strategies.
5 Causes Behind Skin Pigmentation or Hyperpigmentation
1. Sun Exposure
Extended exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun serves as a potent stimulator of melanin production, setting in motion the intricate process that culminates in the emergence of dark spots.
These spots, widely recognized as sunspots or age spots, are a visible manifestation of the skin’s response to prolonged solar influence.
2. Hormonal Changes
Fluctuations in hormonal levels, a phenomenon particularly pronounced during significant life events such as pregnancy or as a consequence of birth control usage, possess the potential to act as catalysts for the onset of hyperpigmentation.
This can manifest as the infamous “pregnancy mask” or melasma, where hormonal shifts leave an indelible mark on the skin’s pigmentation.
3. Inflammation
The aftermath of skin injuries, encompassing cuts, burns, or the aftermath of acne battles, can set the stage for inflammation.
This inflammatory response activates melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, leading to the development of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The scars left behind tell a tale of the skin’s intricate healing process.
4. Genetics
Within the intricate tapestry of genetic diversity, some individuals find themselves genetically predisposed to the development of hyperpigmentation.
Certain ethnic backgrounds exhibit a heightened susceptibility to this condition, underscoring the intricate interplay between genetics and the manifestation of pigmentation disorders.
5. Aging
As the relentless march of time unfolds, the skin undergoes natural aging processes that include a discernible increase in overall pigmentation.
This cumulative effect contributes to an evolving skin tone, gradually leading to a less-even complexion as the years pass by. The aging journey, while inevitable, leaves its unique mark on the canvas of our skin.
What Are the Best Preventive Measures for Hyperpigmentation?
In the pursuit of healthy, luminous skin, preventing hyperpigmentation becomes a pivotal aspect of skincare. In this section, we embark on a journey to explore the best preventive measures for hyperpigmentation, empowering you with the knowledge and strategies to maintain an even skin tone.
The Best Treatments to Prevent Hyperpigmentation.
1. Moisturize Regularly
Keeping the skin moisturized is essential to prevent hyperpigmentation. A good over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizer that contains ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and retinol can help boost cell turnover and promote the growth of healthy skin cells.
2. Avoid Picking or Scratching Skin Injuries
Scratching or picking at a spot can cause inflammation and trigger the production of excess melanin, leading to dark spots.
3. Use OTC Whitening Options
OTC treatments that contain ingredients like azelaic and glycolic acids, vitamin C, and retinoids can help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the formation of skin-darkening melanin.
4. Protect Skin from the Sun
Sun exposure is a major cause of hyperpigmentation, so it’s important to protect your skin by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, avoiding peak hours of sunlight, and wearing protective clothing like hats and long sleeves.
5. Use Gentle Skincare Products
Avoid using harsh products that can irritate, as this can trigger hyperpigmentation. Choose gentle cleansers and moisturizers that are suitable for your skin type.
Evolution of Skin Whitening Products for Hyperpigmentation
In Asia, most of the women are looking to have a fairer and clearer complexion of skin, regardless of their origin skin tone. Based on the chart below shows the rapid growth of brightening/ whitening/ lightening (BWL) products since the year 2004.
There are two types of BWL ingredients that are currently on the market that help with the hyperpigmentation issue. However, the quality of the ingredients may vary. For example, a high dosage of hydroquinone and bleaching agents that falls under the cheap, low end and toxic category can still be sold legally in the market. Another category is the high-end products that can modify skin color and help to achieve younger looks.
According to Medical News Today, there are 6 effective topical treatment ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation at home. There are different methods to treat different levels of hyperpigmentation problems, whether they occur in the superficial layer or the deeper layer of the epidermis and dermis. Topical treatments are usually applied for hyperpigmentation that occurs in the epidermis layer, while laser treatment is more suitable for the hyperpigmentation that occurs in the dermal layer.
Which Ingredient Is Best for Hyperpigmentation?
In the dynamic realm of skincare, where an array of ingredients promises transformative results, one question echoes: “Which ingredient is best for hyperpigmentation?” In this exploration, we dissect the power players in the realm of skincare, unveiling the ingredients that stand out in the fight against uneven skin tone.
(1) Treat Hyperpigmentation with Azelaic Acid
According to Downie from News, Azelaic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor, which can prevent hyperpigmentation as it is associated with melanin production.
Tyrosinase is the main enzyme involved in the pigmentation cascade. Azelaic acid works as an anti-inflammatory for acne skin and, simultaneously, has an anti-pigment function because it stops the release of tyrosinase. For instance, azelaic acid is the best option if you have acne-prone skin and have issues with dark spots in the areas.
Among the other exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), azelaic acid is categorized as a more gentle type of exfoliant, said Paul Jarrod Frank (MD), the cosmetic dermatologist and founder of the PFRANKMD. Therefore, azelaic acid is more prone to sensitive or delicate skin, requiring extra care.
(2) Treat Hyperpigmentation with Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the popular depigmentation agents. However, it has to interact with other agents like copper ions to inhibit the release of tyrosinase and then reduce the formation of melanin.
As the nature of Vitamin C is highly unstable, it can easily lose its benefits due to heat and oxidation. To overcome this issue, the chemists from Hayashibara have developed Hayashibara’s novel enzyme technology for a unique stabilized vitamin C – L-Ascorbic Acid 2-Glucoside (AA2G).
According to Metrodermatology, hyperpigmentation on the skin can gradually fade away by applying a large amount of Vitamin C. Prima Oligo – Vita-C Serum is a potent antioxidant to increase collagen production. To correct and prevent skin damage from ultraviolet radiation. To achieve high tissue concentration of vitamin C through direct application, absorption is rapid and effective in skin lightening and reducing hyperpigmentation.
(3) Treat Hyperpigmentation with Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids, generally known as steroids, are one of the popular anti-inflammatory drugs that are widely used in treating hyperpigmentation.
According to WebMD, cortisol is the main stress hormone produced by adrenal glands that works on “fight-or-flight” actions, lowers the inflammation levels of the body, and controls the circadian rhythm.
When the body cannot produce cortisol normally due to Addison’s disease, which is one of the causes of hyperpigmentation, Corticosteroids are man-made drugs that closely resemble cortisol and are the best alternative to target the issue.
(4) Treat Hyperpigmentation with Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is an active ingredient for skin-bleaching or lightening the pigmentation areas of the skin caused by age spots, freckles, and melasma.
A suggestion by Medical Journals, Hydroquinone, also known as a tyrosinase inhibitor, with a 4% topical cream, is good to use for up to 6 months daily for hyperpigmentation treatments. However, according to the Wiley Online Library, hydroquinone is still the most effective ingredient to treat hyperpigmentation on the epidermis layer.
By using hydroquinone to treat hyperpigmentation, it acts by blocking the melanin production from the skin that forms the dark patches on the skin or discoloration.
(5) Treat Hyperpigmentation with Ferulic Acid
Ferulic acid, or hydroxycinnamic acid, can be found primarily in plants and multi-grains like wheat, rye, oats, and barley. It is a powerful antioxidant that offsets free-radical damage.
Generally, sunlight UVA and UVB, infrared radiation, and environmental pollution are the major causes that accelerate skin aging. Ferulic acid is broadly used in sunscreen formulation as a photoprotective agent to slow down the skin photoaging process and reduce pigmentation at the same time. It is commonly used at a concentration of 12% with the combination of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid for best results.
Apart from the ingredients, the packaging for ferulic acid should come into consideration as well. An opaque and dark color bottle can protect ferulic from light and storage in a cool and dry area instead of a hot and steamy bathroom for optimal effectiveness. According to Levin, MD, founder of Entière Dermatology in NYC, if the ferulic acid has turned its color from golden orange to muddy brown, it indicates that the acid has been oxidized and is no longer as effective.
(6) Treat Hyperpigmentation with Niacinamide
Niacinamide or nicotinamide, also known as vitamin B3 (niacin), is a water-soluble vitamin commonly combined with the natural substances in the skin to help reduce pigmentation issues, fix uneven skin tones, manage rosacea, minimize enlarged pores, and soften fine lines.
As Jennifer Herrmann, MD, the board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, said, our bodies do not produce nicotinamide naturally, and it is not able to synthesize in our body as well. Niacinamide can work only by topical application on the skin or be ingested from supplements and has to be maintained for the long term to reap its brightening benefits.
Using a topical niacinamide product twice daily may bring the best result in skin brightening and reducing skin hyperpigmentation. An essential niacinamide booster contains 10% concentration and can be used daily as a serum or in combination with a moisturizer.
However, for severe cases, the concentrations of niacinamide can be increased up to 20%.
Prima Oligo Brighten Up Collagen & Mask set – helps brighten up dull skin and brings a fair complexion to your skin. It is suggested to use it 3 times a week for the skin to stay hydrated, leaving it refreshed and revitalized. Using it for the long term to improve the skin’s texture and lighten the pigmentation areas.
A Skincare Line Made for Hyperpigmentation or Pigmentation Skin
Hyperpigmentation, a common skin concern, need not be a lingering woe. Unlock the secret to preserving vibrant and healthy skin by understanding its triggers and proactively incorporating preventive measures. For those troubled by hyperpigmentation, a plethora of treatment methods are available in the market for one to explore.
The advantages of harnessing topical substances for hyperpigmentation therapy are manifold, encompassing skin brightening, dark spot elimination, and the restoration of an even skin tone. However, the key lies in the careful selection of these substances, considering factors like skin type and the root cause of hyperpigmentation.
As an innovative skincare brand, reach out to us NOW if offering effective hyperpigmentation solutions is one of your brand goals. Owning a skincare line targeted for hyperpigmentation or skin pigmentation can be seamlessly facilitated by our skincare OEM solution. By incorporating our safe and efficacious ingredients for skin brightening, while avoiding harsh formulations, you not only address your consumers’ current concerns but also safeguard their skin against future damage.
