Spotlight On: Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin conditions which causes irregular patches of discoloured skin or dark spots; it can be temporary, though some cases are more permanent.
While essentially harmless, it primarily affects the face and neck, though may also appear on shoulders, underarms, hands, legs and even feet. The occurrence of these darker patches across the face, particularly the forehead, nose, cheeks, upper lip and around the mouth, can have a big impact on someone’s confidence.
“As hyperpigmentation is highly visible, many customers tell us its treatment and future prevention is crucial to feeling confident in their skin’s health and appearance. Understanding its causes and your particular type, therefore, is the first step towards achieving this.”
Mazin Al-Khafaji, Dermatology M Founder
What Causes Hyperpigmentation Of The Skin?
Hyperpigmentation is fundamentally caused by excess melanin production. The human body produces melanin in cells called melanocytes, to help protect the skin from UV rays, i.e. sun damage. This is what gives our skin its tone and is what we refer to as a ‘tan’ during the summer months.
The excessive production of melanin, leading to discolouration or patches of darker skin, can be brought on by a number of different internal and external triggers:
Unprotected UV exposure: This is the no.1 cause. Not wearing SPF, or a high enough factor SPF, causes the skin to overproduce melanin in a bid to protect itself. Certain medications and professional-grade facial peels further heighten sun sensitivity and therefore melanin production.
Pollution: If not properly cleansed from skin, pollution particles can irritate, inflame and trigger melanin production.
Hormonal changes (Melasma/Chloasma): Brought on by pregnancy, contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy and even some thyroid issues.
Skin trauma: Picking acne breakouts, eczema flare-ups, contact dermatitis and even cuts to the skin can cause inflammation and scarring which then triggers dark patches or spots to form.
Stress: The stress hormone cortisol is a known melanin trigger.
What Are The Different Types Of Hyperpigmentation?
Freckles: Genetically determined, freckles appear in childhood and are most commonly found on the face, shoulders and arms. Freckles are usually more prominent in summertime, fading over winter and reduce as we age.
Moles: Normally visible from birth, moles can appear anywhere on the body in varying shapes and sizes. It is vital we monitor moles, checking for changes in size, appearance or abnormality as an indicator of malignant cells forming in melanocytes (skin cancer).
Melasma/Chloasma Hyperpigmentation: Light or dark patches, commonly seen on foreheads, cheeks, noses, or around the mouth on upper lips and chins, are triggered by significant hormonal imbalances most commonly seen in pregnancy (aka pregnancy mask) but can also be related to other hormonal fluctuations.
Lentigines (aka liver spots, or age spots): The flat, dark spots or patches arise as we age and are linked to the long-term effects of UV exposure over time.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Caused by skin trauma such as inflammation from acne breakouts, or scarring. These usually fade over time and are the easiest type to treat.
Phytophotodermatitis: Caused by a specific type of contact dermatitis - inflammation from exposure to furocoumarins (certain plant chemicals) which can be activated by UVA exposure.
How To Treat Hyperpigmentation
Unfortunately, due to the nature of hyperpigmentation being a symptom of a more deep-rooted issue, there are no quick fixes. However, making changes to your skincare routine and the ingredients you are using can effectively fade its appearance and prevent re-occurrence.
“My 40-year study of Chinese Herbal Medicine and dermatology has brought to light key botanical actives renowned for naturally brightening uneven skin tone and dark spots. You’ll find them in the five specialised formulas in our hand-made hyperpigmentation range.”
Mazin Al-Khafaji, Dermatology M Founder
1. Dark Spot Brightening Tincture
Ideal for facial hyperpigmentation, melasma and chloasma, our 100% natural tincture is a stimulating and soothing blend of Dong Quai, Red Sage, Redroot and Arnebia Extracts. Applied twice daily to affected areas, it helps promote skin cell micro-regeneration to visibly brighten and diminish hyperpigmentation.
2. Brightening Mask
96% natural, our targeted mask uses a combination of botanical Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Liquorice Root and Redroot Extracts to boost skin cell regeneration and reduce hyperpigmentation. Apply every 2 days to clean, dry skin, leave for 15 minutes, then rinse away.
3. Bakuchiol Face Oil
Crafted with Bakuchiol - a natural retinol alternative - plus Vitamin E, Rosehip and Hemp, our 100% natural face oil helps stimulate cell renewal and strengthen the skin barrier, to noticeably reduce discoloured patches and prevent future hyperpigmentation. Use daily before, with or after moisturiser.
4. Rose Otto Face Cream
We also use Bakuchiol, Rosehip and precious Rose Otto in our 99% natural, intensely hydrating and age-defying cream. This is designed to boost skin cell renewal and powerfully brighten and even skin tone. Ideal for all skin types, even sensitive, massage it into clean, dry skin daily.
5. Dark Spot Brightening Cream
Our 95.5% natural, night-time moisturiser helps brighten patches of hyperpigmentation on the face through its skin-cell-stimulating blend of Bakuchiol, stabilised Vitamin C, Bai Lian, Bai Zu and Bai Ji. Massage into clean, dry skin each evening.
If you have further questions about hyperpigmentation or another skin concern, our Customer Services team is here to help.
