Nope, that’s not the world map magically appearing on your body telling you to go travel the world. Those freckled dark spots and splotchy uneven skin tone marks are manifestations of hyperpigmentation. This is caused by melanin’s overproduction called melanogenesis. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, inflammation, skin injuries, and hormones are common causes of hyperpigmentation.
Spots Signs for hyperpigmentation
Again, those aren’t magical skin maps. Signs of hyperpigmentation can show in different places, due to various reasons.
One manifestation of hyperpigmentation is liver spots. These are usually seen in older people whose hands have had chronic and cumulative sun exposure without any form of protection. Pregnancy mask or melasma is another hyperpigmentation sign. Usually occurring across the face, this is due to hormonal imbalances during pregnancies, hormone replacement therapy, use of hormonal contraceptives, and thyroid conditions. Mottling, one of the preliminary signs of sun-related premature again, is flecking of darker color in parts that are over-exposed to the sun. When the skin does not heal properly due to an inflammation or injury, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs. Freckles or solar lentigines are due to sun exposure, and can manifest all over the body.
Skin Solutions
No matter the cause of the hyperpigmentation, you must lessen sun and heat exposure. Between 10:00am to 2:00pm is the time when UV rays shine at its peak. If one has to go out during this crucial time, a hat, sunscreen, and clothing with protective SPF are highly encouraged to be worn. Inflammation sources should be reduced. Resist the urge to pop out that pesky pimple, and to use incorrect, aggressive skin care products and procedures. Sunscreen with a broad- spectrum should be used daily. This should be applied during the morning, and reapplied during the day even for those with indoor jobs. A broad-spectrum SPF-30 moisturizer is the easiest way to do this.
A daily chemoexfoliant like alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) can be a solution for hyperpigmentation as well. Products like these contain, or have a mixture of, lactic, glycolic, mandelic, and malic acids. These products also remove layers pigmented patches on the skin’s surface. To stimulate cellular turnover, retinol or salicylic acid can also be used. During nighttime, a melanin suppressant should be used. FDA-approved, over-the-counter hydroquinone (HQ) does wonders to hyperpigmentation. Some examples of non-FDA approved brighteners that have similar results to HQ are lactic acid, arbutin, and kojic acid. However, these cause photosensitivity and those who use products containing those brighteners should be extra careful in facing Mr. Sun. Steroids, higher concentrations of HQ, and steroids are stronger medical treatments for those with darker skin types. Think also about making necessary lifestyle changes, such as sun exposure and repetitive use of products.
Professionals can assist clients in choosing the right products available in the market. Home-care solutions paired with professional-strength products is a match made in skin heaven. These will certainly aide you in keeping your clients loyal to you.