Human skin colors vary from one person to another ranging from pale to dark skin. In addition, various skin conditions related to pigmentation may result in hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation over the spectrum of skin tone. Hyperpigmentation results in the darkening of the skin, while hypopigmentation results in the lightening of the skin.
A pigment known as melanin imparts color to your skin. Hence, hyperpigmentation occurs due to too much melanin in the skin. The leading causes include inflammation, melasma, sun exposure, medication, etc.
Everyone longs for blemish-free, clear skin but only a handful are truly blessed with it. If you are bothered by this kind of skin issue, you must know that there are various ways to treat skin discoloration. So, here are seven surprising ways to treat hyperpigmented skin and sail through life with flawless skin.
- Lotion P50
The Biologique Recherche’s Lotion P50 has become the must-have product in most people’s skincare regime. This lotion is among the best toners on the market and is known for its excellent exfoliating properties. With this epitome of French skincare, one can easily overcome skin issues like hyperpigmentation. It gently exfoliates and brightens the skin tone lifting the off-surface pigmented cells for those with genetically thin epidermis. Furthermore, it also prevents brown spots by inhibiting the tyrosine enzyme, which is responsible for melanin production and unifies the complexion.
Even though this lotion’s scent may not be pleasing to everyone, you cannot deny its benefits after several uses so if you are looking for a miracle product to regulate oil production and exfoliation and to balance the skin’s pH level, look no further than this excellent product.
- Chemical Peeling
Among the numerous skin treatment trends, chemical peeling has become the best one that helps deal with various skin problems, including hyperpigmentation. It uses acids like salicylic, glycolic, AHA, BHA, etc., in more substantial concentrations to treat specific problem areas of your skin. First, it reduces the appearance of pigmentation by removing the epidermal layer of the skin. Then, more concentrated skin chemical peels penetrate the skin’s middle layer, producing a dramatic result.
Chemical peeling treatment is available at a professional-grade dermatology clinic and can deliver powerful and quicker results. Nevertheless, you can also purchase chemical peeling solutions from the market, use them at home, and might see visible results after using them a few times. Remember, when using chemical peeling solutions at home, follow the instructions carefully and leave them on the skin for not more than the allotted time. Also, you must limit sun exposure post this treatment as it may lead to specific side effects like redness, scarring, irritation, etc.
- Microdermabrasion
Another professional-grade and effective treatment for hyperpigmentation include microdermabrasion. This kind of skin procedure is mainly available at a professional dermatology clinic. A dermatology expert uses a drill-like tool with an abrasive attachment and swipes across the skin rapidly. Then, they gently remove the outer skin layer or the hyperpigmented skin. Multiple sessions of this treatment can deliver the desired result and produce the best result when used to eliminate superficial scars. However, you must consult a professional dermatologist to determine whether this procedure suits your skin. People with fairer skin tones can also try this treatment to reduce hyperpigmentation.
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- Vitamin C
Well, not only are professional treatments effective for reducing hyperpigmentation on the skin, but certain home remedies can also help. One of the reviews in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery stated that vitamin C is among the best potential home remedies for treating hyperpigmentation. In the form of citric or ascorbic acid, it can help to change the skin’s appearance.
You can incorporate vitamin C-based products like serums, lotions, and creams into your skincare regime to treat hyperpigmentation. You may also consume edible sources of vitamin C, such as lemon, papaya, grapefruit, etc., whose antioxidant properties help to lighten the skin cells over time. However, to get the desired results, you must use it for several days or as your skin specialist recommends.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Using apple cider vinegar can also help eliminate unwanted pigmentation on the skin because it contains acetic acid as a mild chemical peeling agent. In addition, according to the studies in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, apple cider vinegar contains polyphenols which are great antioxidants and works best to protect the skin cells.
This could be a time-consuming treatment but shows some visible results when used correctly and regularly. Mix water and apple cider vinegar, apply it on the affected areas twice daily and rinse thoroughly.
- Retinol
Retinol’s anti-aging properties were popular, but now you can use it for treating hyperpigmentation. It is among the best agents that are often underutilized. Like vitamin C, retinol can also hinder the production of tyrosinase. Its exfoliating properties can help to remove the outer dead skin cells, resulting in an even skin tone.
- Sunscreen
Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen is the most efficient strategy to stop discoloration due to sun exposure. It should contain an SPF or sun protection factor of 30 or more, and you should apply it every day, even on chilly or cloudy days. Dark patches only become darker because UV rays lead to more pigmentation. In addition, using sunscreen on the exposed body parts can be helpful.
SPF solely acts as the best defense against UVB short-wave radiation. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests using a product with Parsol 1789, Mexoryl, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, or zinc oxide if you want to protect against UVA long-wave rays as well. The AAD also advises staying indoors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun is bright.
Conclusion
Despite being a common, harmless skin problem, hyperpigmentation can make one self-conscious. Hyperpigmentation can arise due to both internal and external causes. You can take additional preventive steps to reduce the emergence of future dark spots in addition to therapy and sun protection. Avoid irritated or burning skin care products since these might exacerbate or even start hyperpigmentation. But see a doctor if you experience itchy, red, or painful skin or pus discharge and bleeding from the hyperpigmented skin.
