We treat hyperpigmentation in our clinics daily. We can help if you want a treatment for hyperpigmentation or any other pigmentation issue. We share the top causes of hyperpigmentation and their solutions in this blog. You may have noticed that dark spots appear more frequently on your face and wondered what is causing them. Keep reading to learn what causes hyperpigmentation and how you can brighten the dark places.
Dark Spots: The leading causes
You can get dark spots if your skin is fair, oily, or dry. You can trace the cause of these dark spots over time to melanin. Each person’s skin has a certain amount of melanin, a pigment produced by the skin cells. Hyperpigmentation occurs when skin cells produce too much melanin [1]. The excess melanin can cause dark spots and patches on the skin. This can lead to discoloration or uneven skin tone. Hyperpigmentation is a problem that can affect anyone. However, people with darker skin tend to be more susceptible. Here are the three most common reasons hyperpigmentation may occur.
Cause #1: Too Much Sun Exposure
Sun damage is the leading cause of dark patches. Your skin releases melanin when it comes into contact with UV rays. Melanin is a natural sunscreen that absorbs UV ray energy and redistributes it [2]. Too much sun exposure can lead to an overproduction of melanin and dark spots. Hyperpigmentation can also be caused by sun damage over time, resulting from frequent sun exposure.
Solution 1: Protect Your Skin
Protecting your skin against the sun is essential if you notice new pigmentation. Sunscreen is a must-have for any anti-aging skincare regimen. It protects your skin from sun damage and prevents dark spots. Wear sun hats to protect your skin from UV rays. Also, use sunscreen like Kate Somerville’s Daily Deflector ™ Mineral Sunscreen. Adding sunscreen daily to your morning skincare routine can protect your skin from the sun.
Heat can also cause melanin to overproduce. Avoid too hot activities, and keep your skin cool when in the sun to prevent dark spots.
Cause # 2: Hormones
Hormones play an essential role in causing melanin production to increase. Extra hormones can cause dark spots on the cheeks, jawline, or forehead. This hyperpigmentation does not last forever and is usually temporary until your hormones return to balance. Hyperpigmentation due to hormonal imbalance is common in pregnant women, people undergoing hormone therapy, and individuals who have recently changed birth control.
Solution # 2: Maintain Balance
Bring your hormones into balance to reduce or stop pigmentation problems caused by hormones. We recommend you speak with a medical professional if hormones cause dark spots. They can help you develop a plan tailored to your needs and your body’s. Topical antioxidants, such as our Kate Somerville KX Active ConcentratesTM Vitamin B3+ Vitamin C Serum, can help to improve discoloration. This lightweight serum contains Vitamin B3 and Vitamin C. Together, they reduce discoloration and uneven skin tone and enhance your skin’s radiance.
Cause # 3: Inflammation
Inflammation is the third most common cause of dark spots. Hyperpigmentation is often caused by inflammation or injury of the skin. Acne, allergies, and conditions like eczema can cause skin discoloration. The skin tries to heal when damaged. It produces more melanin than it needs as it heals. The excess melanin can darken the skin and leave a dark mark even after healing.
Solution # 3: Minimize Inflammation
Avoid inflammation whenever possible. Inflammation is a normal response of the body. Don’t worry if it occurs. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a natural reaction of your body to heal. You may not be able to stop all wounds from happening, but you can prevent the inflammation of your skin by not picking at pimples or using harsh chemicals. When using acne scar products, be sure to use gentle ones and then follow with a soothing moisturizer.
Don’t worry if you have a few dark spots due to skin conditions such as acne. Skincare products such as the Kate Somerville d-Scar Diminishing Serum can reduce the appearance and size of scars.
