Dr. Shireen Singh, MBBS.
Written by Our Editorial Team
Hyperpigmentation is common in people of colour. Hormonal changes, sun damage, and acne spots are all causes of hyperpigmentation of skin. While it is a stubborn skin issue it can be treated with correct active beauty ingredients. So those who are bogged down with uneven complexion need not be worried because this blog has the solution for you.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
The facial skin is made of many colours. Melanin imparts the skin its natural colour, and hyperpigmentation on the face can be caused when excess melanin is accumulated in certain parts of the skin, making the face look uneven and tired. Melasma, age spots, and skin inflammations are some types of hyperpigmentation. Men and women who have more melanin in their complexion have a rich, deep skin tone. Deeper skin tones are more susceptible to the problem of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Ingredients that help in treating Hyperpigmentation on the face
While it is advised to take professional help for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, many over-the-counter products can work to resolve it along with dermatologically prescribed treatments. So those who don’t want to go through the hassle of visiting a dermat could try out these ingredients that have been proven to treat facial pigmentation.
1. Tranexamic acid
A rather new find in the beauty world, tranexamic acid is a very promising ingredient when it comes to fading hyperpigmentation on the face. It is excellent for reducing melasma and inhibiting melanin production. It also works well in fading dark spots caused by acne and sun exposure (exposure to UV rays). Within 3 to 4 months it helps in evening out the complexion and adds a healthy glow to the skin.
Also Read : Tranexamic Acid : One Of The Best Ingredients For Hyperpigmentation
2. Vitamin C
A very popular ingredient, Vitamin C is a skin brightening agent. It helps in fading post-inflammatory scars to make the skin tone uniform and bright. It works even better when combined with other actives like azelaic acid and AHAs. Vitamin C serums have smaller molecules that penetrate deep within the layers of the skin and offer quick results when it comes to skin care procedures.
3. Exfoliating agents
Exfoliating acids like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs remove the dead skin layer and help with cell turnover to heal marks and spots. They are particularly beneficial in healing acne scars and hyperpigmentation around the mouth.
4. Kojic Acid
Another well-loved dermatologically backed ingredient is Kojic Acid. It is an excellent antioxidant that helps in inhibiting excess melanin production. This potent antioxidant produces very similar results to hydroquinone which is a prescription-only ingredient. It offers an overall luminosity to the skin while fading pigmentation on the face.
5. Retinaldehyde
A potent form of Retinol, Retinaldehyde is known for combating hyperpigmentation while offering anti-ageing benefits. It encourages cell turnover and helps in resurfacing the skin while exfoliating the dead skin cells.
6. Niacinamide
Niacinamide also known as Vitamin B3 is an excellent ingredient when it comes to fading pigmentation on the face. It interrupts the process of skin pigmentation and adds an overall radiance to the skin. It helps in tightening the pores while keeping acne at bay. It also prevents future pigmentation and scarring of skin.
Also Read : Niacinamide - Skincare Benefits And Uses
7. Azelaic Acid
Found in ingredients like barley and rye, azelaic acid helps in suppressing the melanin formation within the skin, and is an excellent treatment for melasma.
8. Arbutin
Most people don’t know that arbutin is considered to be a natural form of hydroquinone. Found in blueberry and bearberry it helps in lightening the skin. It is excellent when it comes to treating acne scarring and pigmentation around the mouth.
9. Cysteamine
This ingredient is being newly explored in the beauty world. It helps in lightening post-inflammatory pigments, sunspots, and melasma by inhibiting melanin synthesis.
10. Licorice extract
This is a plant-based ingredient known to treat conditions related to skin discoloration. Packed with antioxidants it prevents excess melanin synthesis and therefore, keeps the skin colour uniform and bright.
The importance of Sunscreen
The harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun are some of the major contributors to hyperpigmentation. It triggers melanin production in the skin and darkens existing skin discoloration while creating patches in new areas. Sunspots, as the name suggests are caused by excessive sun exposure. Sun rays can drive the melasma and hyperpigmentation to an exacerbated condition. The best bet here is to use good sunscreen. It is the first line of defense and works evenwhen supported by physical mediums of sun protection like an umbrella or hat. Using An SPF of 50 PA+++ can protect the skin from this form of pigmentation on the face. Ingredients like SunCat DE and Titanium dioxide offer all-around protection and protect from sun damage. ThriveCo’s Daily Sunscreen Gel is an excellent, versatile sunscreen that protects the skin from the damaging effects of the sun. It calm’s the skin and offers defense against environmental aggressors and blue light.
ThriveCo’s Daily Sunscreen Gel
ThriveCo's Daily Sunscreen Gel a lightweight, matte sunscreen that is formulated with SunCat DE, Titanium Dioxide, Polyglutamic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid. This multi-protection sunscreen goes on like a transparent veil of sun defense and offers continuous protection from the harsh rays of the sun (UV rays). it also defends against photo ageing and prevents tanning. Apply it every 2 hours, to keep your skin protected from extended sun exposure, and to keep discoloration at bay.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ingredients for your skin is very important. While it might take some trial and error, finding the right skincare routine will make your skin luminous and maintain its youthfulness. Pigmentary disorders can be treated with active ingredients when used in the correct dosage. Besides that, it is very important to protect the skin against sun damage to avoid hyperpigmentation and sunscreen is the best way of doing it.
Also Read : Skin Blemishes - Types And How To Get Rid Of Them
About Doctor :
Dr. Shireen Singh, MBBS, MD Dermatology, is a trusted dermatologist with over 8 years of specialized experience. Passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their hair and skin care goals, she combines cutting-edge technologies with personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. She's dedicated to helping you achieve vibrant hair and glowing skin. Dr. Shireen loves research and is here to share her expertise for your health and happiness.
Disclaimer: All the content published on www.thriveco.in is solely for information purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consider seeking the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider. The information, suggestion, or remedies mentioned on this site are provided without warranty of any kind, whether express or implied.