HYPERPIGMENTATION WOES

Traditionally harmless, pigmentation can cause its sufferers an overwhelming sense of despair on how to effectively treat it. Before entering the world of skincare, I did not know all of the options that were available to me to help me with my own pigment. I would walk with my head down in order to not have to look at others directly, in fear they would notice my ever-spreading pigment. What I realize now is that, most likely, my pigment would not be the first thing they would think of when looking at me. But in my mind, I felt like a monster. I would search the web for home remedies, but let’s be honest – most home remedies do not work on helping reduce pigment. I grew to accept the fact that I would probably be suffering with this ‘plague’ the rest of my life considering I could not afford the procedures that many dermatology clinics offer.

What I have come to find out is that while it’s true I will be dealing with pigment the rest of my life, instead of just accepting my fate I can help combat the appearance of my pigment – and stop future pigment – by adopting a proper skin care regimen. If you cannot afford many of the expensive procedures out there, a proper regimen can help you tremendously.

The root cause of pigmentation is very hard to determine. There are so many factors related to pigmentation: from sun exposure, to stress, to hormonal imbalance, to melasma. Sometimes it is extremely hard to find out what where your own pigmentation comes from. But whatever the cause, pigmentation can cause emotional stress to the person who suffers from it.

Reaching my 30’s I started to get what is called the ‘pregnancy mask’ after my son was born. The pigmentation spread from one little spot to my entire forehead, above my lip line and on my cheeks. I would hide the pigment on my forehead in a number of ways. I did this for over 10 years before I started to research alternatives. What I found was there are many ingredients that will help brighten the skin and prevent future pigmentation. From my own experience I found a number of ingredients offer brightening effects which have reduced my pigmentation over 80%, after using them for about a year and a half. And although I still have pigment, I hold my head high and hide nothing on my face. If you suffer from this type of skin care challenge, you might appreciate what a huge step in the right direction this is.

The key is consistency in using quality skincare which has pigment lightening ingredients. Look for products that contain one or a combination of ingredients which are effective yet safe. I prefer ingredients that are plant-derived extracts which in addition to brightening the skin also provide nourishment. It is extremely important to take steps to prevent future pigmentation. Always, ALWAYS use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis to minimize the amount of UV rays that penetrate your skin.

My top ingredient picks!

Arbutin – Arbutin is considered a natural skin brightener and an alternative to hydroquinone. It inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme, which is involved in pigment production.

Kojic Acid – Kojic Acid is a skin lightening agent that targets melanin production. Melanin determines the color of pigment in the skin. Kojic Acid blocks tyrosine from forming, effectively preventing the production of melanin. Kojic Acid helps to gradually fade discoloration caused by sun, natural aging and other causes.

Ferulic Acid – Ferulic is a highly sought-after anti-oxidant which can help to neutralize free radicals and prevent UV-induced sun damage.

Niacinamide – Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, helps to balance skin tone by slowing down the transfer of melanin. Niacinamide also is considered an excellent skin conditioner as it offers a wide range of benefits.

Above all, patience and consistency is essential in dealing with your pigmentation. Adopt a solid skincare regime, using ingredients you’ve researched to help with your unique challenges, and you will be surprised what a difference you can get!