Hyperpigmentation Treatment

• Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds.
• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 and broad spectrum to protect against UVA and UVB rays daily, even on overcast days.
• Avoid sun exposure in the middle of the day when UV rays are strongest.
• For those prone to hyperpigmentation, avoid picking or touching acne spots, wounds, or cuts to reduce the chances of developing post-inflammatory dark spots.

Melasma is a common skin problem, often appearing in grey/brown patches. These patches are usually found on parts of the face like the cheeks, forehead and chin.

Sun exposure can cause melasma, especially among those genetically predisposed to the condition. Birth control pills, hormone therapy, and anti-seizure medications can also trigger the condition. In women, pregnancy is also a possible cause.

It is thought that stress results in the overproduction of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), causing melasma. Those with thyroid disease also have an increased chance of developing the condition. Rare causes include allergic reactions to medications and cosmetics.

Freckles commonly appear in areas exposed to the sun and come in small brown spots. While they are generally harmless, freckles are signs of sun damage on the skin. Long-term sun exposure is commonly the cause, including exposure to other forms of ultraviolet (UV) light. Fair-skinned people are generally more susceptible to UV rays and more likely to develop freckles. Another possible cause is genetics.

Melasma, or chloasma as it is known during pregnancy, occurs due to hormonal changes in the body. During this period, there is an increase in melanin production, but it is temporary. Also known as the “mask of pregnancy”, these dark patches typically appear on the face around the nose, upper lip, cheekbones and forehead in the shape of a mask.

Freckles are spots that contain melanin, a pigment-protein. This protein is made by cells known as melanocytes, produced when skin is exposed to UV light to defend against its harmful effects. In some people, these melanocytes are evenly spread out, resulting in a tanned appearance. People with fair skin, however, experience a heavy deposit of melanin in one spot in the skin, and these spots are known as freckles.

Pigmentation refers to the natural colour, in this case, of skin. The resulting issue is known as hyperpigmentation when it is more pronounced or uneven. Naturally, being by default the skin most exposed to the sun, our face tends to be the most susceptible to hyperpigmentation.

The problem with dull skin is more of the appearance than the skin itself. Skin dullness can be attributed to various factors. Skincare professionals use “dullness” as a blanket term to describe a decreased skin rosiness, the corresponding increase of yellowness, and the dark look caused by shadows over uneven skin surfaces. Dull skin is dehydrated and lacks brightness and vigour.

Common factors that cause dull skin include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, dehydration and poor diet. Any triggers that deprive your skin of much-needed oxygen and nutrients will dull skin tone. Lack of exfoliation – the sloughing of dead skin cells off– can also cause dull skin.