What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term used to define common skin conditions — including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma and sun spots — in which patches of skin become darker than the surrounding area. The darkening of the skin results from an excess in melanin — the natural pigment that determines skin, hair and eye colour — and frequently appears on the face, hands and other parts of the body regularly exposed to sunlight.
Mechanism of Skin Pigmentation:
Types of Hyperpigmentation:
There are several types of hyperpigmentation, the common ones being melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
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Melasma. Melasma is believed to be caused by hormonal changes and may develop during pregnancy. Areas of hyperpigmentation can appear on any area of the body, but they appear most commonly on the stomach and face. Melasma is a chronic skin condition and one of the toughest types of hyperpigmentatipn to treat.
- Sunspots. Also called liver spots or solar lentigines, sunspots are common. They’re related to excess sun exposure over time. Generally, they appear as spots on areas exposed to the sun, like the hands and face.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is a result of injury or inflammation to the skin. A common cause of this type is acne.
Common Mistakes in Treating Hyperpigmentation:
- Not using sunscreen (regardless of skin colour or skin type)
- Not treating the underlying causes of hyperpigmentation (hormonal, insulin resistance, inflammation, injury)
- Not understanding what type of hyperpigmentation you have (PIH, sun damage, melasma)
- Doing extractions at home that may cause further injury/inflammation
- Spending too much time in direct sunlight (with or without sunscreen)
- Experimenting with homemade skincare
- Not using the correct ingredients
- Using too many harsh ingredients that my cause inflammation
- Not understanding your level of sensitivity to active ingredients
- Not being consistent with your skincare regimen
- Expecting overnight results
When starting any new product or active ingredient, it is important to:
- Patch test product
- Introduce products slowly, allowing the skin to adjust thereby avoiding irritation, purging
- Do not use products on sensitive skin, broken skin or inflamed skin
- Keep your skincare routine SIMPLE
Yearn Skin Products that assist in Treat Hyperpigmentation:
- Niacinamide Cleansing Gel
- 5% Glycolic Exfoliating Tonic
- Alpha Arbutin Serum
- Active Brightening Facial Cream
- Active Brightening Facial Oil
- Glow Turmeric Mask
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/hyperpigmentation#types
FAQs and Answers
1. What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding areas due to an excess of melanin. It often appears on the face, hands, and other areas frequently exposed to sunlight.
2. What are the common types of hyperpigmentation?
The three common types of hyperpigmentation are:
- Melasma: Caused by hormonal changes, often appearing on the face and stomach.
- Sunspots: Also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, caused by prolonged sun exposure.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Results from skin injury or inflammation, commonly caused by acne.
3. What are the common mistakes in treating hyperpigmentation?
Common mistakes include:
- Not using sunscreen.
- Failing to treat the underlying causes (e.g., hormonal imbalance or inflammation).
- Misidentifying the type of hyperpigmentation.
- Using harsh or incorrect skincare products.
- Expecting overnight results.
- Experimenting with homemade remedies.
4. Why is sunscreen important for preventing hyperpigmentation?
Sunscreen helps protect the skin from UV damage, which can worsen hyperpigmentation. It should be used daily, regardless of skin type or colour, to prevent further darkening.
5. How can I introduce new skincare products for hyperpigmentation?
When starting new products:
- Perform a patch test first.
- Introduce products slowly to avoid irritation or purging.
- Avoid using products on sensitive, broken, or inflamed skin.
- Keep your skincare routine simple.
6. What ingredients are effective in treating hyperpigmentation?
Ingredients like niacinamide, glycolic acid, alpha arbutin, and turmeric are effective in reducing hyperpigmentation. They help to exfoliate, brighten, and even out skin tone.
7. What are the recommended Yearn Skin products for hyperpigmentation?
Yearn Skin recommends the following products for treating hyperpigmentation:
- Niacinamide Cleansing Gel
- 5% Glycolic Exfoliating Tonic
- Alpha Arbutin Serum
- Active Brightening Facial Cream
- Active Brightening Facial Oil
- Glow Turmeric Mask
8. What role does consistency play in treating hyperpigmentation?
Consistency is crucial when treating hyperpigmentation. Regular use of the right skincare products, combined with sun protection, helps achieve long-term improvements. Expecting immediate results is a common mistake.
