What is Hyperpigmentation and What Are the Causes?
While pigmentation simply refers to the colour of the skin, hyperpigmentation is a term used to describe an area that has extra pigmentation. It can appear in three different ways: melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun spots.
Melasma
Melasma is a condition that often appears in pregnancy due to hormonal changes in the body. As such, it’s often referred to as the ‘mask of pregnancy’
Sunspots
Sunspots are areas of the skin damaged by UV radiation over time. They often appear on the face and can make the skin tone appear uneven.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation describes an area of skin that has been damaged by an injury such as a bite, scar, burn, or acne. The skin becomes darker during the healing process.
Internal Factors Contributing to Pigmented Skin
Some of us are more genetically predisposed to hyperpigmentation while others may find that it develops at certain points of their life when their hormones change - such as in pregnancy or after a prolonged period of a skin condition such as acne or psoriasis.
External Triggers for Facial Pigmentation
Some of the causes of hyperpigmentation are environmental such as prolonged UV exposure and pollution. These types of triggers can be prevented and lessened by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen and an antioxidant such as vitamin C to the skin each morning. This combination is clinically proven to fight free radicals responsible for hyperpigmentation and skin damage while inhibiting melanin production.
Ingredients to Target Hyperpigmentation
The best products for hyperpigmentation use ingredients such as melasyl and niacinamide.
Melasyl
Melasyl has a new mode of action compared with other hyperpigmentation dermatological actives. It acts early in the mechanism of melanin synthesis to avoid its overproduction and the appearance of pigmentary concerns in the form of dark spots on the skin. It intercepts excess melanin at a different stage of its production before it marks the skin, fighting hyperpigmentation like never before and helping to prevent the appearance of pigment irregularities. Clinically tested on all skin tones, Melasyl is the result of 18 years of research at La Roche-Posay.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide, on the other hand, is a form of vitamin B3 that has become popular in skincare products due to having multiple benefits. Niacinamide has been shown to help improve skin barrier function, reduce inflammation and sebum production, and help to reduce the appearance of dark spots or hyperpigmentation in the skin. Niacinamide can be a gentler alternative to some of the stronger depigmented products, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay's Approach to Hyperpigmentation
Correct & protect against hyperpigmentation with La Roche-Posay’s Mela B3 range for hyperpigmentation, and La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios range for sun protection. This routine is recommended by dermatologists for hyperpigmentation and is suitable for all skin types.
Mela B3 Intense Anti Dark Spot Serum, uses the ingredient Melasyl - our active melanin trapper - with 10% Niacinamide for a multi-action against hyperpigmentation that also soothes skin and strengthens the skin barrier. This formula helps to lighten the appearance of any existing hyperpigmentation and prevents future discolouration from appearing. This can be used in conjunction with other products from the range, such as the Mela B3 Cleanser for Dark Spots which uses micro-exfoliating ingredients, Melasyl, and Niacinamide. These ingredients reduce the appearance of imperfections and leave the skin looking brighter and more radiant.
To complete your routine, Anthelios Anti-Dark Spots SPF50+ offers broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection against sun exposure – the fundamental factor leading to the appearance of dark spots. It is formulated with Melasyl, to target hyperpigmentation, and the UV Filter UVMune 400, the most efficient UV filter for protection against ultra-long UVA*.
How to Choose the Right Hyperpigmentation Products
When selecting products for hyperpigmentation, consider your skin type (sensitive, oily, or dry) to find a suitable formula. Understanding the cause of your hyperpigmentation, such as UV exposure, hormones, or skin injury, is crucial. This knowledge allows you to choose products that not only improve hyperpigmentation but also address and prevent its cause. For example, if acne or psoriasis is causing your hyperpigmentation, use skincare that treats these issues to prevent new hyperpigmentation from developing.
Professional Hyperpigmentation Solutions
For more severe cases of hyperpigmentation, you may need to seek professional help at a clinic. Here they can offer more powerful hyperpigmentation treatments such as lasers and chemical peels.
Laser therapy for hyperpigmentation
Laser therapy is a powerful in-clinic treatment that can help to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation such as sun spots. It must be undertaken by a qualified professional as lasers work by heating up the affected area of skin. The laser then absorbs the light, shattering the extra pigment and bringing it to the top level of the skin. This then flakes away or fades over time.
Chemical peels for hyperpigmentation
Chemical peels must also be undertaken by a professional in a clinical setting as they use high-strength acids such as glycolic, salicylic and retinoic acid to exfoliate the top layers of the skin. This helps to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by removing old skin cells and allowing new ones to take their place. This creates a more even-toned complexion. A skin professional will be able to advise on what type of peel and potency is suitable for your skin type and level of hyperpigmentation.
Protect and Treat Hyperpigmentation
Now that you know the causes and types of hyperpigmentation, you can build an effective skincare routine at home. Remember, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is crucial to prevent hyperpigmentation from worsening and to protect your skin from environmental damage.
Visit La Roche-Posay for products specifically designed to treat hyperpigmentation and repair skin damage. If you're uncertain about your hyperpigmentation's cause or your skin type, schedule an online consultation with a dermatologist for personalised advice.
