Uneven skin tone is more popular than you might think. In South Africa, it’s easily labelled as a common skin concern. Hyperpigmentation is characterised by abnormal darkening or an increase in the melanin production in the skin (ie. dark marks). Understanding the type of hyperpigmentation you may be suffering from and what actives you should be using can be confusing. Natasha Davel from South African skincare company Fundamentals Skincare, an affordable, high-quality vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand, breaks this down.
The most common type of hyperpigmentation is caused by sun damage also known as sun spots or solar lentigines.
“Sun exposure over time causes an overproduction of melanin in our skin which as a result shows up as distinct pigmentated patches. Commonly found on the chest, face, hands and backs,” explained Davel.
The second most common is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This appears on the skin in response to inflammation in the skin which is more common in darker skin types. Often also caused by acne and scarring.
Lastly, Melasma or chloasma is the third type of pigmentation. It is a condition where brown or greyish patches of pigmentation develop often as a result of internal body triggers, such as hormone changes like pregnancy and thyroid conditions. Melasma is often worsened by sun exposure in the summer and can improve in wintertime.
The treatment:
Fundamentals Skincare is a brand that aims to make skincare simple to understand and easy to do with its multi-functional products, seamless skincare routines and skincare bundles that offer full routines from A to Z.
When it comes to actives and routines, consider the below for treating all forms of pigmentation:
- Alpha Arbutin: this ingredient manages uneven skin tone, reduces post-breakout marks, manages pigmentation, and plumps and hydrates the skin.
- Vitamin C: is a key ingredient in treating pigmentation. It is the strongest anti-oxidant and offers benefits such as reducing dark spots and improving skin texture and radiance.
- Retinol and Bakuchiol: These ingredients are not only great for anti-ageing, but they also work hard to fade dark marks, as well as improve hydration, and texture, and help manage breakouts to avoid further scarring.
- Sunscreen: This is a no-brainer. We already know that sun exposure causes hyperpigmentation, therefore ensure you are using broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen every day.
This branded content was produced by Fundamentals Skincare.
