One search on the internet, and there is going to be an ocean of products on display, claiming to help you bid farewell to those dark spots and patches forever. The field of skincare has witnessed noticeable advancement through the past few years, and there indeed are effective solutions for hyperpigmentation available in the market. However, before we dive into those, let us understand what Hyperpigmentation really is.

What is hyperpigmentation?

As the name hints, hyperpigmentation is a skin condition where the skin’s natural pigmentation is present in excess, resulting in dark spots or patches on the surface of the skin. This happens when the skin produces melanin, the pigment which is naturally present in our bodies and gives our skin its colour, in an excessive amount. Hyperpigmentation generally occurs after the skin suffers from some form of inflammation such as acne or suffers from prolonged sun damage. Hormonal fluctuations in the body and certain medication can also cause hyperpigmentation on the skin.

Effective treatment for hyperpigmentation

By using products specifically designed to target dark spots and patches, it is possible to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Let us look at some active ingredients that can be helpful here.

1) Niacinamide: A type of Vitamin B3, Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of dark spots by inhibiting the transfer of melanin. This ingredient is gentle and anti-inflammatory in nature, which makes it suitable to be used on all skin types, sensitive skin included.

2) Alpha Arbutin: A highly sought-after ingredient when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation, Alpha Arbutin works by reducing the production of melanin which gradually leads the existing dark spots to fade away. This ingredient is generally used in the form of a serum.

3) Thiamidol: This innovative ingredient has been developed by Eucerin, a renowned name in the world of science-backed skincare, after years of research. This patented ingredient works by reducing melanin production in the skin and shows results in as less as two weeks when used consistently. Eucerin’s Anti-Pigment Range, consisting of two serums, a day care cream with SPF 30 and a night care cream all feature Thiamidol as a key ingredient. If you are looking to adopt a holistic skincare routine to combat hyperpigmentation, Eucerin’s Anti-Pigment range is your answer!

4) Glycolic Acid: Glycolic Acid is a type of AHA, or Alpha Hydroxy Acid. It is a gentle exfoliator which contributes to reduction in dark spots by exfoliating the skin’s surface and helping a fresh layer of skin to reveal itself.

5) Tranexamic Acid: Tranexamic Acid is another effective solution for hyperpigmentation which works by regulating melanin synthesis and may help reduce hyperpigmentation caused by acne and sun damage.

Things to keep in mind while treating hyperpigmentation

• Hyperpigmentation is often a stubborn skin condition and can take weeks or even months to go away. Hence, it is important to follow a targeted skincare routine consistently in order to see visible results.
• Sun protection is the most important part of your treatment for hyperpigmentation. Sun damage not only induces hyperpigmentation, but it can also worsen any existing dark spots or patches. The active ingredients used to treat dark spots can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Hence, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen religiously, even on days you are staying indoors.
• When it comes to skincare, less is more. In the quest of achieving fast results, do not introduce too many active ingredients into your skincare routine at once as this can leave your skin irritated and damaged.
• Hydrated skin heals faster. While you incorporate serums that target your dark spots and patches, do not forget to use a moisturiser suited to your skin type, every single day.

Now that you know what needs to be done to bid adieu to those annoying spots, go ahead and achieve the skin of your dreams!