The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation: 7 Key Treatments

February 14, 2023

Dark spots or marks aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. What can be done about this? Learn what causes hyperpigmentation and ways to treat it, from abrasive techniques to homemade remedies. Join the reading session to find the best ingredients for hyperpigmentation. 

A breakout or an inflammation may result in hyperpigmentation in certain areas of your skin. Concerns arise when it spots the face, hands, neck, and arms. 

Don’t want aging to surprise you? Read When to Start Using Anti Aging Products?

The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation: 7 Key Treatments

What is Hyperpigmentation and its Causes

The most common skin condition can affect people regardless of age or race. And it happens when there is “more pigment” in areas than the surrounding skin due to excess melanin production. 

Some causes are 

  • Sun exposure: Recurrent areas exposed to the sun provoke sunspots, solar lentigines, or liver spots. Tanning beds are also culprits to hyperpigmentation. 
  • Inflammation: From eczema or acne. 
  • Hormonal fluctuations: During pregnancy, women are prone to skin discoloration. 
  • Skin trauma: Cuts, bites, skin tears, and blisters could cause blots. 
  • Diabetes: Certain areas of the skin may become darker in association with diabetes. 

Types of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation includes different types. Identifying the causes of your dark spots may help to address and prevent them. 

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs when the skin experiences trauma or injury, such as acne, burns, cuts, or inflammation related to psoriasis or eczema. These may be temporary depending on the damage. 

Solar lentigines: Long-term sun exposure may birth age spots. 

Melasma: is often triggered by hormonal changes during pregnancy or when taking birth control pills. 

How to Treat Hyperpigmentation 

Are you tired of looking at an uneven skin tone? Removing dark spots for cosmetic reasons is valid. That will require a more cutting-edge treatment. 

Laser Treatment

The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation
The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation

For starters, there are different types of lasers available. Often to treat spots, an intense pulse light laser helps to target melanin and break up dark spots. It results in an even tone and clearer complexion.

 

Microdermabrasion

The process involves using a handheld device that exfoliates the skin’s surface and buffs away imperfections, such as discoloration, fine lines, and other signs of photoaging. In some cases, to achieve desired results, several treatments are required. 

Chemical Peels

This treatment option involves applying a chemical solution to the affected area, which works by exfoliating the top layer of the skin. Removing the top layer of the skin also helps to stimulate collagen production and renewal within the deeper layers of the skin, leading to a more youthful complexion.

Although successful, your skin is vulnerable, so taking care of it post-treatment is vital. 

Cryotherapy

The process involves applying the affected area with liquid nitrogen, causing the dark patches to freeze and heal lighter afterward. The process is quick and painless, with results visible within a few weeks. But depending on the situation, it may require more than one treatment session. 

Prescription skin-lightening cream 

Hydroquinone

Is a topical skin-lightening agent that inhibits the production of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for causing skin discoloration.

For its pure form, a prescription is necessary as the over-the-counter contains low concentrations of hydroquinone. Moreover, its higher percentage may cause irritation and dryness in some. Skin discoloration is possible when not used with proper care. Consult your dermatologist for any concerns.  

Kojic acid 

Is a natural compound that blocks the enzyme responsible for producing pigment in the body. Abstain from using concentrations higher than 4 percent because it isn’t suitable for your skin. 

There’s more to this, jump to Kojic acid: What you need to know.

The best ingredients for hyperpigmentation

Vitamin C

is a powerful antioxidant that helps to reduce melanin production and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can cause premature aging and hyperpigmentation. 

Retinoids

Are a class of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A and known to be effective at treating dark spots on the skin. Retinoids increase cell turnover rate, meaning they can help shed off dead skin cells and promote the growth of new ones. 

Are a class of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A and known to be effective at treating dark spots on the skin. Retinoids increase cell turnover rate, meaning they can help shed off dead skin cells and promote the growth of new ones. 

Furthermore, it may help 

  • boost collagen production, which plumps up the skin
  • reduce wrinkles. 
  • Regulate oil production
  • unclog pores
  • even out skin tone. 

Azelaic acid

Stop discolored skin cells from populating with azelaic acid. It is a natural component found in whole grains-  rye and wheat. Due to its ability to reduce signs of aging and improve overall complexion, it’s in demand in skincare products. 

Licorice extract

An herbal supplement used to lighten and even out the skin, reduce dark spots and slow down signs of aging. Gladbridin is the active compound in licorice extract - derived from plant flavonoids. It contains antioxidant properties, protecting from environmental damage and free radicals. 

Which of these best ingredients for hyperpigmentation will you use? 

Natural Home Remedies for Hyperpigmentation 

The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation
The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation

Sometimes the skin prefers natural remedies. How about a few home remedies to lighten these dark patches and restore even skin tone? 

Lemon juice is controversial because reviews are mixed. If you aren’t careful, it can be contra-productive. 

Citric acid is a natural skin-lightening agent that may help fade dark spots. Squeeze some lemon juice, grab cotton balls, and apply it to your skin. Add honey to ease the stink and irritation. Leave it on for 15 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water. 

Avoid contact with the sun while using lemon juice on your face, as it may be susceptible to phytophotodermatitis.  

Another common yet debatable natural remedy for dark spots is apple cider vinegar. It is a natural astringent that may help reduce discoloration in the skin. 

To use it, mix equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar and apply the mixture to your dark spots with a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. 

Aloe vera may also help even dark spots with its natural healing properties and skin-lightening enzymes that can help reduce hyperpigmentation. 

Get yourself some fresh aloe vera gel to apply to your dark spots and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing it off. 

When to Seek Professional Help for Hyperpigmentation Treatment 

In some cases, darker-pigmented areas of the skin may be early signs of skin cancer. You should see a dermatologist or doctor if you notice dark spots that:

  • Become irritated
  • Bleed
  • Have irregular edges
  • Change in size, shape, or color

Prevention Tips for Avoiding Hyperpigmentation in the Future

Limit sun exposure & wear sunscreen

The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation
The Best Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation

Don’t let this one catch you by surprise. Humans are prisoners to the sun’s shine. If you aren’t taking precautions, severe damage can spring onto your health. Seek the shade, wear sunblock and protective clothing to endure UV lights. 

An anti-inflammatory diet

Additional help comes from food sources rich in antioxidants and other vital nutrients to keep your bodily functions under control. 

  • Berries
  • Leafy greens
  • Salmon & Omega-3 fish
  • Tomatoes
  • Yellow and orange veggies; carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash
  • Egg yolks
  • Green tea
  • Healthy fats; almonds, flax seeds, walnuts, and avocados

Overview

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition that causes areas of the skin to darken due to excessive melanin production. Among the causes are sun exposure, hormones, and certain medications. Fortunately, there are treatments available for hyperpigmentation - products, procedures, and home remedies. 

Prevent further damage by protecting your skin from sun damage. Wearing sunscreen and eating healthy will boost your skin health. 

Experience 2+ Topicals

Don’t let your skin starve! The skin can be the most forgotten organ when getting its nutrients. Explore our products to find the best one for your skin! Nourishment will enhance its health and beauty! 

Learn about 2+ Topicals Nourishing Skincare Lotion, Nutrition for the Skin.

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