Dark Spots, No More! Here Are 8 Derm-Approved Tips To Prevent Hyperpigmentation

Clear, bright skin with an even tone is always our primary skincare goal. We’ve experimented with a variety of lotions, serums, and modern chemicals to get there. However, learning how to prevent hyperpigmentation or dark spots is just as crucial as learning how to treat them once they manifest. There are many causes of hyperpigmentation, like as melasma, acne flare-ups, and UV exposure. It can also manifest unexpectedly. It normally doesn’t last forever, but dissipation can take some time (another reason prevention is key). Tips To Prevent Hyperpigmentation

If you want to keep your skin tone even or if it is prone to dark patches and discoloration, you’ve come to the right place. The paragraphs that follow provide advise on how to stop hyperpigmentation from dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD.

In relation to the Expert:

Modern Dermatology in Connecticut is run by board-certified dermatologist Deanna Mraz Robinson, MD, FAAD, who also co-founded the practice.
What Is Hyperpigmentation, Exactly?
Hyperpigmentation, which is what gives our skin its color, is defined by Dr. Robinson as “skin patches that are darker than the rest as a result of an excess production of melanin.” Although inflammation and sun exposure are the main causes of hyperpigmentation, melasma and Addison’s disease are also connected to a number of illnesses. Hyperpigmentation known as melasma is linked to significant hormonal changes, including those that take place before, during, and after pregnancy and menopause.

Although everybody can have hyperpigmentation, darker skin tones are more susceptible since they already produce more melanin (pigment) than lighter skin tones, claims Dr. Robinson.

How might one prevent hyperpigmentation?
Dr. Robinson believes that hyperpigmentation should be avoided because treating it can be difficult. The following eight tips will help you prevent black spots so your skin looks even and bright.

Dark Spots, No More! Here Are 8 Derm-Approved Tips To Prevent Hyperpigmentation

1. Put on broad-spectrum SPF.

Sunscreen is a skincare item that is simply non-negotiable (if you aren’t using it every day, start right away). It helps to protect your skin against problems like early aging, sun spots, and yes, hyperpigmentation in addition to preventing acute skin harm like sunburn. According to Dr. Robinson, UVB rays are the ones that cause burning and tanning, which are both signs of increased melanin production. Therefore, prevention and protection are essential. I advise using a vitamin C-containing antioxidant serum in the morning along with a mineral SPF 30+.

Do this: A gentle mineral sunscreen that is good for both the environment and your skin is KINSHIP Self-Reflect Probiotic Moisturizing Sunscreen Zinc Oxide Broad Spectrum SPF 31. It contains turmeric, which is high in antioxidants, and a probiotic complex to help strengthen your skin barrier (great for helping protect skin from hyperpigmentation).

2. Avoid picking at flaws.

Although it may be difficult, picking at your skin won’t make a breakout go away faster; in fact, it may leave it more bacterially exposed and delay healing. Another justification to ignore annoying breakouts? Even after they are gone, dark stains may remain. Furthermore, picking at pimples causes inflammation, which is a major cause of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and results in the spots that persist even after the pimple has healed.

3. Regularly exfoliate

Exfoliating regularly not only keeps pores clear and skin bright, but it also helps eliminate dull, dead skin cells, boosts cell turnover to lighten dark spots, and does other things. “Exfoliation is essential to keep fresh, healthy skin cells at the skin’s surface and damaged skin cells in motion. Every night, I advise using retinol, bakuchiol, and/or alpha hydroxy acids for exfoliation.

Do this: Numerous healthful ingredients are added to BIOSSANCE Squalane + Phyto Retinol Serum, including squalane for substantial hydration, bakuchiol, a retinol substitute derived from plants, and niacinamide (more on that below).

4. Include niacinamide in your daily routine

One of the holy grail components for maintaining clean, content, and healthy skin is niacinamide. It is well recognized to lessen the ability of the skin’s melanin-producing enzyme to prevent the formation of dark patches. Additionally, it can provide some UV protection and aid in the regeneration of healthy skin cells, both of which are essential for maintaining the radiance and brightness of your skin.

Do This: FIRST AID BEAUTY Radiance on the face For melasma, sun spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation, niacinamide dark spot serum is the holy grail. For clearer, healthier skin, it contains niacinamide, licorice root, and kiwifruit.

5. Moisturize Frequently & Well

Keeping your skin moisturized is a terrific strategy to help prevent hyperpigmentation from occurring since, as we’ve previously stated, skin that is hydrated and happy skin. A good moisturizer will be enriched with skin-loving elements (like hyaluronic acid, for instance), and it can help improve cell turnover, support a healthy skin barrier, and seal in hydration—exactly what you need to protect your skin against hyperpigmentation and keep it glowing.

6. Guard Fresh Scars

Newly created scars should be handled carefully to avoid them leaving behind dark markings after they heal, regardless of whether they were from severe breakouts or frequent cuts and scrapes. One important guideline is to keep them out of direct sunshine. Keep a fresh scar that is still healing out of the light to avoid discoloration over time, advises Dr. Robinson. Wearing sunblock and protective clothes, such as caps and long-sleeved shirts, can help prevent your scar from deepening and being visible for a long time.

7. Choose Azelaic Acid

Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, this naturally occurring enzyme found in many grains, including wheat and rye, has numerous positive effects on your skin. Dr. Robinson claims that it’s excellent for avoiding hyperpigmentation. According to her, azelaic acid is a tyrosinase inhibitor that inhibits the synthesis of melanin. Additionally, it can benefit people with acne-prone skin (a plus if you tend to get acne scars, a form of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Always see your dermatologist to learn about any possible substances’ adverse effects and to determine whether a product is good for you.

8. Consider a Modern Treatment

According to Dr. Robinson, in-office treatment options are excellent for correcting hyperpigmentation and enhancing the effects of your skincare regimen. Because some office treatments (for instance, IPL should not be used if you have melasma) might exacerbate hyperpigmentation, it’s crucial to engage with a physician you can trust and who can accurately assess your kind of hyperpigmentation. In addition to Clear + Brilliant Touch, Dr. Robinson advises Cosmelan Peel for melasma, IPL for pink and brown spots, Vbeam for vascular redness/capillaries, and IPL for brown spots.

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