Are dark spots or uneven skin tone leaving you frustrated? Perhaps you've tried numerous remedies, but nothing seems to work—or worse, the condition is worsening. If this sounds familiar, you've likely come across the term hyperpigmentation. But what does it really mean, what causes it, and how can you treat it effectively?

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation refers to areas of the skin that become darker due to excess melanin production. This happens when melanocytes, the cells responsible for melanin, overproduce pigment/melanin, creating darker spots than the rest of the skin.

While hyperpigmentation affects all skin types, it is more common in darker skin tones because of the higher natural melanin levels. This increased melanin makes the skin more prone to hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation can stem from various causes, which means understanding its type and origin is crucial for effective treatment. Common types include:

1. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
2. Melasma
3. Freckles/Sun Spots

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

PIH occurs due to skin inflammation resulting from acne, burns, insect bites, eczema, psoriasis, or trauma. It is the most common type of hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones and is something many of us have experienced at some point.

Melasma

Melasma can arise due to:

• Genetics: If your family has a history of hyperpigmentation, you’re more likely to develop it.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, birth control use, hormone replacement therapy, peri-menopause or menopause can trigger melasma.
• UV Exposure: Overexposure to UV rays can result into melasma.

Freckles/Sun Spots

These are primarily caused by prolonged sun exposure and heat. Even indirect heat sources like tanning salons, hot yoga, or stovetops can trigger melanin overproduction. Freckles and sun spots are more prevalent in lighter skin tones.

Treatment Options for Hyperpigmentation

1. Sunscreen: Your First Line of Defence

Protecting your skin is crucial. Use a mineral sunscreen with at least SPF 50 daily, and remember to reapply throughout the day. This prevents existing pigmentation from worsening and shields your skin from further damage. Yes, darker skin tones must need sunscreen too.

2. Target the Root Cause

Identifying and addressing the root cause is imperative to effectively treat hyperpigmentation. For example,  your hyperpigmentation is due to acne, focus on treating both acne and its resulting hyperpigmentation.

3. Start Early

Treat hyperpigmentation before it reaches deeper layers of the skin (the dermis), as it becomes harder to treat over time.

4. Home Treatments

• Gentle Exfoliation
  Use a chemical exfoliator, such as lactic acid or mandelic acid, up to twice a week to remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter skin. Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can worsen hyperpigmentation. Steer clear of physical scrubs, which can cause micro-tears and aggravate hyperpigmentation.
• Tyrosinase Inhibitors
  These ingredients block the enzyme responsible for melanin production, reducing pigmentation. Effective tyrosinase inhibitors include:
• Vitamin C
• Kojic Acid
• Alpha Arbutin
• Azelaic Acid
• Licorice Extract
• Niacinamide (reduces melanin transfer from cells to skin)

For best results, use a combination of these ingredients in the correct concentrations (more on percentages in a future blog).

• Retinol (Vitamin A)
  Retinol accelerates cell turnover, preventing melanin from settling into the skin. Begin with a low percentage and introduce it gradually to avoid irritation.

5. Introduce Products Gradually

Always patch-test new products to check for irritation or allergies. Follow usage instructions carefully to maximize effectiveness.

When to See a Dermatologist

If over-the-counter products aren’t yielding results, consult a dermatologist. They can recommend advanced treatments tailored to your specific skin concerns.

Hyperpigmentation can be challenging, but with the right approach and products, you can achieve a brighter, even-toned complexion. Start by understanding your skin, using sun protection, and introducing treatments that work for your skin type.

Would you like to learn more about specific ingredients or advanced treatments? Let us know in the comments below!

Be Limitless

Anna Njoroge - Founder & CEO Ythera

Skin care enthusiasist, ingredient nerd,