Sun Exposure

One of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation is prolonged exposure to UV rays. When your skin is exposed to the sun, it triggers the overproduction of melanin—the pigment responsible for skin color—as a natural defense mechanism to protect against UV damage. Over time, this can lead to dark spots, also known as sunspots or age spots, and an uneven skin tone. Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily, reapplying every two hours, and incorporating antioxidants like Vitamin C into your routine can help prevent and minimize sun-induced hyperpigmentation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy, menopause, or while using oral contraceptives, can stimulate melanocyte activity (the cells that produce melanin). This condition, often referred to as melasma or "pregnancy mask," typically presents as larger patches of discoloration, especially on the face. To manage hormone-induced hyperpigmentation, use gentle products with ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid, which can help regulate melanin production. Always pair these with proper sun protection, as UV exposure can exacerbate melasma.

Inappropriate Cleansing or Physical Damage

Improper cleansing routines or physical trauma to the skin, such as aggressive scrubbing, picking at acne, or using harsh exfoliants, can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This occurs when the skin produces excess melanin as part of the healing process after inflammation or injury.

Tips on how to prevent hyperpigmentation:

- Use SPF 50+ PA++++ sun protection can prevent 98% of UVB and up to 98% of UVA radiation, which causes overproduction of melanin and leads to hyperpigmentation and melasma. Use broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sun protection coverage.

- Always double cleanse, especially if wearing sunscreen or makeup, to thoroughly remove impurities without over-stripping the skin.

- Avoid harsh physical exfoliants or tools that can irritate the skin. Instead, opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic or lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) to gently renew the skin.

- Incorporate targeted treatments with ingredients like Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Vitamin C, and Bisabolol.

Must know ingredients:

Treating any skin concern requires consistency and the use of the right ingredients. Being mindful of what you apply to your face is essential for maintaining a radiant complexion and, most importantly, ensuring your satisfaction.

Alpha-Bisabolol (Alpha Melight™ Formula)

• Reduces melanin production: Known to inhibit melanin formation, helping to prevent dark spots.
• Reduces inflammation: Soothes irritated skin, preventing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
• Brightens skin: Enhances the penetration of other active ingredients, helping to even out skin tone.
• Speeds up healing: Promotes faster recovery, reducing the risk of pigmentation after skin damage.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

• Inhibits melanin transfer: Reduces dark spots and prevents new pigmentation from forming.
• Brightens hyperpigmentation: Helps lighten age spots, sun spots, and PIH.
• Anti-inflammatory: Calms skin to prevent further irritation that can lead to pigmentation.
• Strengthens the skin barrier: Enhances moisture retention and protects against environmental damage.

Looking for the right treatment?

These products contain the previously mentioned ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation and help prevent it.