Brown spots, acne scars, dark areas on the skin... All these are signs of hyperpigmentation. But what is it? How can you avoid it? Let's take stock.

This is not an isolated case, hyperpigmentation affects a large part of the population and spares neither light skin nor dark skin. Some people are affected more significantly than others, different factors then come into play. It is a question of identifying them in order to avoid the spread of the phenomenon, or even completely avoid it when possible.

What exactly is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is what we can call a skin condition that is characterized by a dark coloration of a specific area of ​​the skin. It can manifest itself in different forms, such as brown spots, dark areas, acne marks or scars.

What are the causes?

To understand why hyperpigmentation affects the skin, you need to know that it is most often caused by an excess production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Factors that lead to excess melanin production include, among others: sun exposure, skin aging, hormones (hence the pregnancy mask), skin injuries and certain diseases. Note that hyperpigmentation of the skin can occur on any part of the body, but it is most common on the face, neck, hands and arms. Although this condition is not dangerous to health and is not an end in itself, it can be aesthetically embarrassing and push some people to want to get rid of it.

Understanding the Different Types of Skin Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is not limited to just one type; there are several forms and aspects of this alteration of skin color.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: This is a dark discoloration that develops after skin inflammation, such as acne, a rash, an injury, or a burn. It can appear on any part of the body and is more common in people with dark skin. It may fade over time or remain on the skin forever.

Melasma: This is a skin condition that manifests as dark spots on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Melasma is more common in women and can be caused by hormonal changes, sun exposure, or family history.

Solar lentigines: These are brown spots that appear on sun-exposed skin, such as the face, hands, and arms. Solar lentigines are common in older adults and can be a sign of sun damage.

Vitiligo: This is a skin condition characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation, leading to the formation of white spots. Vitiligo is caused by the destruction of skin pigment cells and can affect any part of the body. Vitiligo can be cured if treated promptly, so it is advisable to consult a dermatologist as soon as doubt arises.

How to prevent hyperpigmentation?

To avoid worsening the appearance of pigment spots or even to avoid their appearance at all, you must take the right steps on a daily basis. Note that hyperpigmentation has a strong genetic factor, if parents or close family members suffer from it, the genes are then favorable to the appearance of spots.

Avoid excessive exposure to the sun

Exposure to the sun is one of the main causes of skin hyperpigmentation, also known as sun spots. It is important to limit your time in the sun and use effective sun protection when you are outdoors. In summer, avoid going out during peak hours of the sun, i.e. between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.! This is when the sun's UV rays are at their strongest and alter the production of melanin. At this stage, even sun protection can be ineffective in protecting the skin from the rays.

You can also prepare your skin for the sun before the arrival of summer, using suitable creams or food supplements. But above all, take constant care of your skin by moisturizing it as much as possible from the face (moisturizing cream, eye contour care , sunscreen) to the body (after-sun, creams, balms or moisturizing gel) morning and evening.

Use the right skin care products

Always be careful to use skin care products that are gentle and suitable for your skin type. Avoid irritating and harsh products that can damage the skin barrier and promote the appearance of age spots over time.

Avoid skin trauma

Easier said than done, but avoid skin trauma such as scratches, rashes, or cuts that can cause skin inflammation and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. While most of these scars fade over time, some skin can scar indefinitely.

Treat skin problems quickly

No matter what the problem is, if you tackle it at the root, you can easily get rid of it! This is the case with skin problems, to prevent them from leaving traces, it is absolutely necessary to act early and quickly. Treat skin problems such as acne or eczema immediately to avoid the appearance of permanent pigment spots.

Maintain a healthy and balanced diet

A healthy, balanced diet can help prevent the risk of skin hyperpigmentation by providing essential nutrients for skin health.