Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term that is used to describe skin conditions that appear on the skin as dark spots or blemishes that don’t go away. This condition is very common especially in dark skin as it is a melanin-related skincare condition.

 

There are three main types of hyperpigmentation. They are:

 

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin-producing cells are overstimulated, leading to an overproduction of melanin. This happens when there has been trauma and damage to the skin, such as acne, eczema or a rash.
• Sun damage hyperpigmentation is caused by overexposure to the sun. This is why it is so important to wear sunscreen daily as UV rays cause and worsen many skin conditions, especially hyperpigmentation.
• Melasma is fairly common but, unlike the other two, it’s caused by hormonal changes in the body and is often found in pregnant women. It presents on the skin as large, brown patches which can be tough to treat using at-home products.

 

Now, on to how to banish it!

 

 

Want to know how to protect your skin from or treat hyperpigmentation? Here’s what you need to fade it.

 

If you have dealt with hyperpigmentation, you will know that it requires patience and consistency. But don’t stress – I am here to give you advice on how to effectively treat it.

 

There are four things you are going to need in your skincare routine. They are:

 

 

1. Tyrosinase Inhibitors These are ingredients that help prevent the overproduction of melanin. They include kojic acid, alpha arbutin and liquorice extract as well as the renowned Eucerin-developed ingredient, Thiamidol.

 

I love the Eucerin DermoPurifyer Triple Effect Serum, R370 from Clicks and the Bioderma Pigmentbio C-Concentrate, R475 from Dis-Chem.

 

 

2. Skin Cell Turnover Use ingredients to increase skin cell turnover to fade hyperpigmentation more quickly. Go for alpha-hydroxy acids, such as lactic acid, glycolic acid and mandelic as well as beta-hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid and retinoids.

 

I love the La Roche Posay Effaclar Ultra Concentrated Serum, R530 from Clicks and the Afari Overnight Regenerating Cream, R795.00 from ARC.

 

 

3. Sun Protection We should *all* be wearing sunscreen that has a sun protection factor of at least 30 as well as antioxidants, such as vitamin C and ferulic acid. You should also be reapplying it before and after spending time outdoors.

 

I love the SKIN functional 10% Ascorbic Acid + 3% Ferulic Acid Serum, R270 from Woolworths and the DermOpal Sunscreen SPF 30, R115 from Dis-Chem.

 

 

4. Skin Barrier Protection When your barrier is wrecked, it can cause further damage which will worsen your condition. Load up on ceramides and oat beta-glucan as well hydrating ingredients, such as squalene, glycerin and panthenol.

 

I love the TonyMoly Wonder Ceramide Mocchi Toner, R250 from Glow Theory and the Squalane Serum, R175 from Standard Beauty.

 

Want *glowing* skin? You need vitamin C in your routine. Click here for eight local formulas we love.

 

 

Another pick I love is The Body Shop Pumpkin Instant Radiance In-Shower Mask to exfoliate dead skin cells for smooth skin and an even tone.

 

PRO TIP For severe cases of hyperpigmentation, consult a professional to find out the underlying cause and the best treatment options for you.

 

How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

As they say, prevention is better than cure and one that 100% works is wearing sunscreen because sun damage is the primary cause of hyperpigmentation. Remember to use the two-finger rule when applying sunscreen and to reapply your sunscreen throughout the day. You’ll thank me later!

 

By Zithobe Macheli / @zithobemacheli

 

Do you want a flawless complexion? Click here to discover the skincare routines of four South African influencers.