Best Skincare Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation, a condition where parts of your skin become darker than the rest, can stem from various causes like sun exposure, hormonal changes, ageing, and skin trauma. We’ve rounded up the best ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation.
Retinoids
What They Do
These vitamin A derivatives are like a reset button for your skin, speeding up cell renewal and fading hyperpigmentation over time.
Combination Therapies
Marries well with alpha-hydroxy acids or Vitamin C for a harmonious skin treatment.
Product Recommendation
Medik8 | Crystal Retinal® 3
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
What They Do
AHAs gently exfoliate the top layer of your skin, helping to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and unveiling the brighter, smoother skin underneath.
Combination Therapies
Perfect when paired with hydrating ingredients to nurture the skin post-exfoliation.
Product Recommendation
StriVectin | Daily Reveal Exfoliating Pads
Niacinamide
What It Does
A true ally for your skin, niacinamide works to improve skin tone, reducing pigmentation and imparting a renewed radiance.
Combination Therapies
Teams up beautifully with other antioxidants and moisturisers for all-around skin health.
Product Recommendation
Naturium | Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
Azelaic Acid
What It Does
Known for its gentleness, azelaic acid targets melanin production while being kind to your skin, especially beneficial if your skin is prone to irritation.
Combination Therapies
Complements retinoids or AHAs, offering a comprehensive approach to skin care.
Product Recommendation
MZ SKIN | Micro-Peeling Glow Essence
Kojic Acid
What It Does
A natural option for those seeking a gentle path to skin lightening, particularly effective against sun damage and age spots.
Combination Therapies
Often combined with other brightening agents like Alpha Arbutin for enhanced effects.
Product Recommendation
GOW | Alpha Arbutin 2% and Kojic Acid 1% Serum
FAQs
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Key ingredients include Vitamin C, Hydroquinone, Retinoids (like Retinol and Tretinoin), Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Niacinamide, Azelaic Acid, and Kojic Acid. These work by reducing melanin production, accelerating skin cell turnover, and providing exfoliation, which lightens dark patches.
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Vitamin C, an antioxidant, inhibits melanin production in the skin. This action helps lighten hyperpigmentation, evens out skin tone, and enhances skin radiance. It is most effective in concentrations ranging from 10-20%.
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Hydroquinone is a potent skin-lightening agent and is safe when used as directed. Over-the-counter products typically contain 2% hydroquinone, while prescription strengths can be higher. Long-term use should be under medical supervision due to potential side effects.
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Initially, retinoids may cause slight irritation, which could lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones. However, proper and gradual introduction of retinoids into skincare routines can effectively reduce hyperpigmentation.
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Natural ingredients like aloe vera, licorice extract, and green tea can mildly improve hyperpigmentation. Nonetheless, for more pronounced cases, the aforementioned ingredients are generally more efficacious.
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The timeframe varies depending on the hyperpigmentation's severity, skin type, and product use consistency. Typically, noticeable improvements can take several weeks to months.
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Yes, but starting with lower concentrations and conducting patch tests is recommended. Ingredients like Azelaic Acid and Niacinamide are particularly suitable for sensitive skin due to their gentler nature.
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AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid exfoliate the skin's surface, helping reduce dark spot appearance and promoting an even skin tone.
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Absolutely. Sunscreen is vital as it prevents further darkening of hyperpigmented areas and guards against UV rays that can exacerbate hyperpigmentation.
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While over-the-counter products can be effective, seeking a dermatologist's advice is advisable for severe hyperpigmentation, as they can offer potent treatments and personalised skincare guidance
