Uneven skin tone (hyperpigmentation) is one of the most common skincare concerns, and it’s also my least favourite. It is characterised by abnormal darkening or an increase in melanin production in the skin.
Breaking down hyperpigmentation
The most common type of hyperpigmentation is caused by sun damage also known as sun spots or solar lentigines.
“Sun exposure over time causes an overproduction of melanin in our skin, which as a result shows up as distinct pigmentated patches. Commonly found on the chest, face, hands and backs,” explained Natasha Davel from Fundamentals Skincare, an affordable, high-quality vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand.
The second most common is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). It appears on the skin in response to skin inflammation that’s more common in darker skin types. It’s typically caused by acne and scarring.
Lastly, Melasma or chloasma is the third type of hyperpigmentation. It is a condition where brown or greyish patches of pigmentation often develop as a result of internal body triggers. This can include hormone changes like pregnancy and thyroid conditions. Melasma can be worsened by sun exposure in the summer and can improve in wintertime.
Treating hyperpigmentation
When it comes to actives and routines, try the below for treating all forms of pigmentation:
- Alpha Arbutin is an ingredient that manages uneven skin tone and dark marks. It is found in the Fundamentals Skincare 2% Alpha Arbutin + 2% Licorice Extract. This is a water serum that not only manages pigmentation but also targets post-breakout marks and plumps and hydrates the skin.
- Vitamin C is a key ingredient in treating pigmentation and is present in the Fundamentals Skincare15% Vitamin C serum. Being the strongest anti-oxidant, this serum works to reduce dark spots and improve both skin texture and radiance.
- Retinol and Bakuchiol are two ingredients that are not only great for anti-ageing, but also work hard to fade dark marks. Featured in the Fundamentals Skincare 0.3 Retinol serum and 1% Bakuchiol seurm, these two products can also improve hydration, and texture, and help manage breakouts to avoid further scarring.
- Sunscreen is a no-brainer because sun exposure causes hyperpigmentation, in both fairer and darker skin. So, you need to ensure that you are using broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen every day. Why not try Fundamentals Skincare SPF30 Sunscreen?
“You are able to get rid of your hyperpigmentation from epidermal or superficial causes” explains Davel, adding that all you need to do is avoid the sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. You should also re-apply when outdoors every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Your maintenance treatment is just as important as your initial treatment.
“Fine-tune your skincare game plan to target and treat hyperpigmentation as well as other skin concerns, by considering incorporating the above actives and being consistent,” concludes Davel.
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