If you’re worried about dark spots from hyperpigmentation, one thing is clear: there are now more options than ever to erase that harmless but annoying discoloration.
What exactly is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation, or skin pigmentation, occurs when some areas of your skin are darker than others. This is a fairly common skin problem that affects people of all skin types. It can appear in small patches, covering larger areas, or, in rare cases, the entire body.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when your skin produces more melanin than usual. Melanin is the pigment responsible for giving your skin its color. Excess pigment is deposited deep in the skin, making the skin appear darker than the surrounding skin.
3 Factors Can Cause Hyperpigmentation
According to the Cleveland Clinic, those are the maximum not unusualplace reasons of hyperpigmentation — and they are able to have an effect on human beings of all pores and skin tones to various degrees.
- Inflammation
When your skin goes through an inflammatory phase, such as acne or eczema, it can become overwhelmed and create dark spots after it heals. Injuries to the skin — such as acne, eczema, insect bites, cuts, scrapes, even scrapes or abrasions from vigorous rubbing — can cause inflammation. Conversely, inflammation can cause pigment-producing cells to become overactive, leaving a dark patch after the wound heals. When inflammation is the cause of the discoloration, it is often referred to as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Sun damage
It’s no secret that the sun’s UV rays are bad for your skin. In fact, they are responsible for up to 80% of the signs of premature skin aging. One of these signs could be hyperpigmentation in the form of age spots caused by lifelong sun exposure.
- Melasma
Dark pigmented patches, which often appear on the face, can be a sign of hormonal changes. It is mainly, but not exclusively, related to pregnancy hormones. During pregnancy, melasma is sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”.
How to prevent hyperpigmentation
Today, there are masses of dark-spot correctors to pick out from — however it`s simply as crucial to address them preventively. The following scientifically confirmed steps can help.
- Avoid direct sunlight. Try to avoid the sun during peak hours between 10am and 2pm. Sit under an umbrella or in the shade when outdoors to minimize sun exposure.
- Use a hat. Cover your face and scalp with a wide-brimmed hat.
- Apply an SPF. Choose a sunscreen above SPF 30+ and use it daily, even during the coldest months, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Try Solaris Ultra Sun Block Cream SPF 60 – Its oil-free formula that physically blocks the damaging rays of the Sun to provide broad-spectrum UVA/ UVB protection with naturally sourced ingredients. Gentle enough for all types of skin.
- Limit touching your skin. Scratching or picking at mosquito bites or spots can cause inflammation and make your face darker, so it’s best to avoid touching your skin. When you touch your skin, such as when applying skincare or makeup, be sure to wash your hands first.