In This Post, We Will Discuss The Best Hyperpigmentation Treatments, How To Stop It from Forming, And The Best Products For Hyperpigmentation
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
As a Dermatology Pharmacist, I have come across hundreds of cases of hyperpigmentation.
When there’s inflammation, skin cells produce extra pigment during the healing process. Acne is one of the main culprits causing this inflammation, especially when the process is sped up picking the spots. If your pigmentation is because of Acne Check HOW TO FADE ACNE SCARS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION FAST
Other causes include genetics and injury to the skin such as overexposure to the sun. Because the cause of hyperpigmentation can vary, the best treatment will depend on what the underlying cause of your condition is. For example, if you are looking for an acne-related solution, treating the underlying acne is key to stopping the vicious cycle.
Non-acne-related hyperpigmentation presents in the form of sunspots, dark spots, or age spots, and they’re brought on by the usual suspects—too much sun damage, hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause, or aging.
One thing remains the same no matter what the cause of the hyperpigmentation; SPF is a must and using any product, no matter how good, without using SPF will make the treatment significantly less effective.
Best Clinic Treatments For Hyperpigmentation
There is a range of treatments that can help hyperpigmentation, this again depends on the cause.
Post-inflammatory marks respond well to Microneedling, when combined with PRF (Vampire Facial) the results are enhanced. To read more on this check this post; WHAT IS A VAMPIRE FACIAL? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PRF
Chemical peels have also shown benefits in reducing hyperpigmentation, they remove dead skin cells and stimulate the growth of new cells in a similar way to retinoids.
Medical Grade skin care is another in-clinic treatment that can be prescribed for you to take home. Regular reviews with a professional will help you to manage the side effect and ensure that you are getting the most out of your treatment. This includes ingredients that cannot be bought over the counter due to their potency and need for regular reviews. Tretinoin is one, it increases the turnover of skin cells, promoting the skin to make new cells.
Hydroquinone is another main player in the treatment of pigmentation, and is often called the ” Gold Standard”, especially for melasma; it inhibits the production of melanin, an excess of which leads to skin darkening.
What To Look For In Hyperpigmentation Products
Ingredients that are found in treatments include:
- Hydroquinone- Prescription Only
- Azelaic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Kojic acid
- Retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene gel)
- Vitamin C
For more options read HOW TO FADE ACNE SCARS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION FAST
Best Products For Hyperpigmentation
1. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Corrective Serum
The SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Serum contains Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid and Kojic Acid. This high-potency serum targets visible skin discolouration by using all of these ingredients brightening properties. It also works well for sensitive skin.
2. NIOD RE: Pigment
The actives in this formulation are targeted at skin brightening and hyper-pigmentation. They include diglucosyl gallic acid (which has shown to be more effective than kojic acid), azelaic acid which has clear hyper-pigmentation fighting properties, and glycine.
3. Allies Of Skin Mandelic Pigmentation Corrector Night Serum £89
This serum is absolutely packed with active ingredients that target pigmentation. It does come with a heavier price tag but when used consistently will fade acne scars and marks effortlessly. It contains a powerful blend of AHA’s including mandelic acid and lactic acid. In addition to the acne-fighting ingredient salicylic acid which prevents new breakouts and clears away dead skin cells, it also contains niacinamide, rosehip (which is a natural treatment for pigmentation) and tamanu oil, all held together with a nice dose of hyaluronic acid to ensure none of these ingredients lead to dryness.
