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“, a condition theyre both actively treating.
To be fair, it seems likeyouhave questions about hyperpigmentation, too.
So take a listen and scroll on for the answer to every possible question you might have about hyperpigmentation.
What is pigmentation?
Toreallyunderstand hyperpigmentation, we need to go back in time way, way back.
What is hyperpigmentation?
This kind of reaction can be due to a variety of potential factors (more on that next!
What causes hyperpigmentation?
The Sun
No surprise here, but the biggest cause of hyperpigmentation is the sun.
Surprisingly,age spots which people often think are solely due to aging are the same thing as sunspots.
People come in and say I have age spots, but really theyre sunspots, explains Gohara.
If you were 100-years-old and never went out in the sun, you wouldnt have any of those spots.
Melasma [can be triggered] by blue light, too, she confirms.
(More on melasma in a minute.)
Heat
One of the more unknown causes of hyperpigmentation: heat.
Heat whether its from hot yoga or sitting by a fireplace can be another trigger for melanocytes.
These pigment factories react when theyre injured, and heat is a form of injury.
Melasma can flare on its own, but sun exposure can exacerbate it.
Acne
Finally, acne can be amajorcause of dark spots.
This trauma can result in localized melanin production that can last longer than the pimple itself.
Those with Caucasian skin have a low natural protection against UV rays, so SPF is especially vital.
Thesealpha hydroxy acidscan cause redness and can even increase melanin production, leading to dark patches.
When used consistently, it fades spots in about three months.
However, theres a lot of controversy surrounding this ingredient.
(Though its often referred to as a bleaching agent, hydroquinone does not in fact bleach the skin.
It inhibits the pigment-forming enzyme tyrosinase, thereby keeping new cells from darkening.)
Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peelto help exfoliate her skin and eliminate discoloration.
Gohara also recommends using a product withVitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid.
The potent antioxidant helps interrupt melanin formation.
Every time we interview a dermatologist, they say they use it, so I have followed their lead.
Ethnicity, or the culture you identify with, does not confer skin pop in, explains Gohara.
I could culturally identify as Black, but have really light skin.
Ultimately, theres no one-size-fits-all for treating discoloration at the doctors office.
But generally, chemical peels and lasers are the go-to.
But while a series of chemical peels can help with hyperpigmentation, proceed with caution.
Those prone to PIH may see their condition worsen.
Pigment-specific peels, likepyruvic acid, are recommended sincestudies have shownthis ingredient is specifically effective for diminishing hyperpigmentation.
Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peelto slough off dead skin.
She also likes to use theReVive Perfectif Even Skin Tone Serum Dark Spot Correctorevery day.
I dont use it all over my face, though, she says.
She often alternates it withShani Darden Retinol Reform, created by celebrity facialist Shani Darden.
way to keep your complexion clear and even-toned.
