Tips for Managing Hyperpigmentation

As we age uneven pigmentation is one of the main reasons we can sometimes look older than we actually are! The terrible truth about this is that the number one cause of hyperpigmentation, or dark spots, is damage from sun exposure. If only we knew then what we know now right…? The reason behind these darks spots is the sun stimulates melanin production in the skin, and over time with repeated prolonged sun exposure, certain areas of the skin produce more melanin than others.

Uneven pigmentation can also be caused by hormones (Melasma), inflammation or trauma to the skin (post inflammatory hyperpigmention PIH) and sometimes from medications. While each case of hyperpigmentation is different and some can be quite difficult to manage, don’t fret just yet, there are effective solutions to even out the skin tone and help prevent future dark spots from appearing!

The easiest solution for treating hyperpigmentation is prevention. Seems fairly straight forward right? You’d be surprised though by how many people don’t take the proper precautions when out in the sun. Protecting the skin from the sun by using a broad spectrum mineral SPF will help prevent sun spots from showing up on the skin. Even if you’ve never before been a sunscreen user, it’s never too late to start! It will prevent more sun damage from happening and if there is already hyperpigmentation present, it can help it from getting worse.

If you already have some hyperpigmentation, there are a number of ingredients that can help to brighten the skin, even out skin tone and lighten pigmented lesions. They work by inhibiting the enzyme in the skin (tyrosinase) that acts as a catalyst for the production of melanin. Some even work to prevent the transfer of melanin from pigment producing cells in the skin to the skin cells we see on the surface of the skin. The main ingredients to look for when purchasing a brightening product are:

• Vitamin C
• Hydraquinone
• Kojic Acid
• Arbutin
• Certain Peptides

Consistency is key when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation. Following a regular skin care regimen that includes brightening ingredients and broad spectrum mineral sunscreen is a must.

Professional treatments such as AlumierMD chemical peels and laser treatments can accelerate your results and help to lift pigmentation in the skin faster than any home care products alone. At OLC we offer free skin care consultations. So free to ask one of our skin care specialists what the best treatment option for your skin is.

Call today to book your free skin care consultation! 613-226-6200