Pigmentation refers to the natural color tone of our skin, and it is usually not a problem unless you confuse it with hyperpigmentation. The latter refers to the darkening of the skin tone due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays, ill-advised use of chemically-enriched skincare products, and a combination of other interrelated factors. 

We are discussing the causes and remedies of hyperpigmentation on the skin. This topic is of special significance in the scenarios wherein one may find one’s skin tone undergoing significant or even drastic changes owing to the above factors. However, to minimize skin blemishes, it is important to find out the meaning of pigmentation (and hyperpigmentation). These two terms are often used interchangeably as they imply a change in the skin’s natural color due to external factors.

We shall explain pigmentation and what exactly triggers skin discoloration in this blog. We will also run through its meaning, causes, and possible results in detail in later sections. In addition, we would also top the discussion by mentioning how you may eliminate these issues by following some precautions and using some toxin-free skincare products.

Smart Tip: You may try Mamaearth Bye Bye Blemishes Face Cream to reduce pigmentation and blemishes.

(Hyper)Pigmentation on the Skin: Meaning and Implications

We have explained above what pigmentation is. It is related to a usual and natural production of some coloring pigments in our skin called melanin that helps us have our usual skin tone. However, its excessive production causes the darkening of the skin, a phenomenon called hyperpigmentation. It is visible in certain irregularities and visibly different skin conditions. 

Note: These dark spots are contagious and may keep clustering in patches. They can be aggravated by hormonal changes or exposure to the sun’s UV rays.

The pigmentation on the skin signifies the natural pigment of the skin. However, it is hyperpigmentation that leaves stubborn marks or patches and causes scaly and uneven skin texture. The condition of skin discoloration occurs in different sizes. The stats show that women in their thirties are more likely to develop hyperpigmentation due to hormonal changes or long-term use of oral contraceptives. 

Even when dark spots are caused due to hormonal changes, experts suggest wearing sunblock always. Here ‘always’ stands for every time, even in winter or rainy season. Moreover, using harsh chemicals on the face for a long time may also cause skin conditions, and hyperpigmentation is one of them. So, it is better to avoid using products like hair removal cream, wax, etc. Opting for sunblock or SPF-based sunscreen would help as it would create a layer on the skin that helps stop the UV rays from entering the skin cells.

Major Types of Hyperpigmentation

Here are the most commonly found and most majorly known types of hyperpigmentation:

  • Matured skin spots
  • Melasma
  • Freckles
  • Solar Lentigines (sunspots)
  • Post-acne spots
  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Causes for Pigmentation on Face 

There could be several reasons that may affect your skin’s natural color, tone, and texture. They comprise a mix of internal (physical, mental, and hormonal) and external (environmental and seasonal) factors. Here’s a rundown of the leading causes of pigmentation on the face:

  • Excessive usage of harsh chemical-laden skincare products
  • The major shift in hormone levels 
  • Excessive exposure to UV rays
  • Medical treatments or specific drugs 
  • Lack of care for skin health 
  • Absence of SPF in a skincare routine 
  • Delayed treatment of acne and pimples 

The sooner you start to treat it, the better it is!

Whatever skin troubles you are battling now, it is important to look for other skin conditions like acne marks, Melasma, hyperpigmentation, and textured skin. Such issues may become prominent with time if left untreated. In addition, untreated sun bums on the face may contribute hugely to unfadable blemishes or dark spots. 

Discoloration of the skin results from many factors, but delayed or uninformed treatment may invite a lot of other related skin concerns. Women often experience different skin conditions during pregnancy, thyroid, or Menopause. Melasma is the most common skin condition women face during pregnancy, and the postpartum period may up the intensity of its spread. 

The remaining cases are a sheer example of how much UV rays can damage the skin. There are many types of pigmentation treatments available that may help manage skin pigmentation. However, you should take expert advice before proceeding with any such treatment plan. It ranges from chemical peel to laser therapy to Intense pulsed light. However, these treatments should be opted for under the supervision of skin care experts and according to skin concerns. 

Many reports suggest that excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays is the prime reason for pigmentation on the face. In addition, it worsens blemishes like dark patches, unevenness, and scaly skin conditions. Therefore, it is better to stay protected from damaging UV rays. Moreover, other than certain medical conditions, remember to add SPF to your daily routine to lessen the chances of attracting dark spots. 

Did you know? Genetic factors affect the number of melanocytes in your skin, the melanin-producing cells. However, skin tanning and hyperpigmentation are the skin conditions that occur due to the changes in melanosomes. Melanosomes are the organelles that hold melanin.

How to Remove Pigmentation?

  • Buy sunscreen with broader sun protection (SPF 30 or more). 
  • Never rely on the SPF enriched in a moisturizer, as SPF needs to be applied separately.
  • Never delay treating skin conditions like acne, pimples, or textured skin.
  •  Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses if stepping out in peak-sunny hours.
  • Always invest in safe and gentle exfoliators to shed dead skin layers more effectively.
  • Use Turmeric, Mulberry Extract, Squalene, and Retinol to restore the skin’s natural radiance.
  • Ditch junk food from your diet and add antioxidant-enriched foods.
  • Learn to de-stress yourself by doing yoga, meditation, and physical exercises. 
  • Be consistent with your CTM routine and add some effective actives to your skincare routine
  • Stay hydrated, be kind with your sleep cycle, and add veggies and fruits to your diet.
  • Consulting with a dermatologist also helps.
Aloe Vera Face Serum

Aloe Vera Face Serum

Hydrates | Boosts Collagen | Reduces Pigmentation

What is the Best Treatment For Pigmentation on Face? 

Chemical peels are considered a promising solution for face pigmentation. It involves peeling off the uppermost layer of skin to allow newer skin cells to erupt. With this therapy, you will see noticeable changes in your skin texture as it helps eliminate excessive melanin from the skin.

Here are some of the best treatments for treating pigmentation on the face:

1. Laser pigmentation

In this procedure, the laser works on the pigmented lesion in the skin without causing any disruption in the skin’s pH and moisture level. 

2. Intense Pulse Light

It works on brown spots by selectively heating the pigment and lifting the affected area to the epidermis. It promotes the body’s natural exfoliation process by removing the discolored area.

In regular microdermabrasion, the treatment is performed on sun-damaged skin. The procedure involves eradicating unwanted pigment spots from the skin. It is considered one of the most performed pigmentation treatments for skin discoloration.

The success of such treatments depends on the individual’s skin concerns, texture, and tolerance. In addition, it is critical to stick to hydrating products to help with your post-care. Skin discoloration can easily crawl back by forming little spots on the skin. So, it is important to be aware of your treatment process and do the post-care accordingly.

Ingredients for Hyperpigmentation

You may be wondering about how you may get rid of pigmentation in a more effortless and effective manner. Well, there are some effective ingredients that help fight hyperpigmentation. You may also buy skincare products specially formulated for such skin concerns. So, let’s learn about some commonly advised remedies for pigmentation control. We recommend you use them (or products containing them) after consulting a skincare expert.

  • Retinol
  • Licorice Extract
  • Tea Tree
  • Turmeric 
  • Honey
  • Vitamin C
  • Squalane
  • Kojic acid
  • Mulberry extracts 
  • Bakuchi 

Personalized Skincare Routine for Pigmentation

1. Tea Tree Face Wash

The most powerful way to outdo skin woes is practicing a double cleansing routine, even if you prefer to stay indoors. Our face is home to unseen germs and bacteria that may cause several issues. Therefore, it is advised to use a cleanser with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Tea Tree Face Wash

Tea Tree Face Wash

Combats Acne | Purifies Skin | Antibacterial

At Mamaearth, we have added the goodness of Tea Tree, Neem, and Aloe Vera to make this pure and gentle pigmentation face wash. It effectively pulls out the acne-causing bacteria and delivers moisture, glow, and nourishment to keep skin healthy. 

2. Bye Bye Blemishes Cream

Bye Bye Blemishes Cream is a gentle solution for skin troubles like dark spots, excess pigmentation, and irritated skin barrier. Formulated with a matte-finish consistency and lightweight formulation, this face cream soaks up extra oil without removing moisture.

Bye Bye Blemishes Face Cream

Bye Bye Blemishes Face Cream

Evens Skin Tone | Non-Greasy | Reduces Dark Spots

It features Vitamin C, Mulberry Extract, Daisy Flower Extract, and Licorice Extract. With its anti-aging benefits and dullness-defying qualities, this face cream helps you reverse early aging signs and appear glowing. 

3. Retinol Face Serum

No matter if you are a newbie in skincare or a well-versed enthusiast, you would probably have heard of Retinol and its amazing skincare benefits. We recommend adding this vitamin A-derivative to your skincare routine in your early twenties to secure your natural pigmentation serum and drive out blemishes. 

Retinol Face Serum

Retinol Face Serum

Minimizes Aging Signs | Reduces Hyperpigmentation

Feeding your skin with the right nutrition and keeping it hydrated will always help your skin stay away from dark spots and other blemishes. Our Retinol Serum features Cotton Seed Oil, Bakuchi, Linseed Oil, and Retinol that help your skin replenish its lost nutrients. It also boosts collagen levels, firms the skin’s epidermis, and calms irritated skin. 

4. Skin Illuminate Face Serum

Many skincare experts have reported that using Vitamin C daily helps them fight skin concerns such as dark patches, freckles, and pimple marks while retaining their youthful glow. With that in mind, we have created our Skin Illuminate Face Serum that packs in the goodness of Vitamin C. 

Skin Illuminate Face Serum

Skin Illuminate Face Serum

Highly Potent Vitamin C | Gives A Radiant Glow

Featuring skin-loving ingredients such as Squalane, Turmeric, and Nymphaea Alba Flower Extract, this serum boosts skin cell function, promotes cell turnover, and improves the capillaries to deliver hydration. 

5. Aloe Vera Turmeric Gel

It is important to maintain a healthy routine of cleansing, moisturizing, toning, protecting, and treating. We thus recommend using safe, effective, natural products that help you get the best results without any side effects. Mamaearth Aloe Vera Turmeric Gel is another product you may use to reduce dehydration, rough texture, and acne that might have led to stubborn dark spots. 

Aloe Vera Gel for Skin and Hair

Aloe Vera Gel for Skin and Hair

Hydrates Skin | Soothes Irritated Skin

It is available in a gel-based consistency that goes deeper into the skin cells and nourishes the pores. It raises collagen levels and improves skin elasticity, and thus helps retain the skin’s firmness and keeps blemishes away. However, use it daily and apply it to damp skin.

6. Ultra-Light Indian Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the most trusted skincare mate ever. Layering your skin with a thick layer of sunscreen can address the dark posts brought over by the UV rays. So, if you have been skipping sunscreens all your life, you should try them now. 

Ultra Light Indian Sunscreen

Ultra Light Indian Sunscreen

Packed with SPF 50 | Long Lasting Sun Protection

You may opt for our Ultra-light Indian Sunscreen if you haven’t done so already. It features the goodness of Carrot Seed Oil, Orange Oil, and Turmeric. This safe and gentle sunscreen is designed to suit the weather conditions of India, and with SPF 50 and PA+++, it offers optimum protection for skin health.

Conclusion

Taking care of skin and deploying a solution aligning with skin texture may take a lot of time to settle down as a schedule. The deal is to stay consistent with the routine and products that yield positive results, once you have found the best combination for your skin type. At Mamaearth, we are busy revolutionizing the way you look at your skincare regimens. We thus create safe and effective skincare products that cater to the diverse needs of your skin type and those near you. 

As an FDA-approved and MadeSafe-certified brand, we promise to delight you with many solutions that help you easily resolve your skincare issues. So, let your skin receive the goodness of nature to remain healthy and blemish-free. 

FAQs

  1. What is pigmentation on face?

    Pigmentation on face refers to the skin’s color. Pigmentation on face is a condition found on the skin due to the overproduction of melanin. As a result, our skin develops certain dark patches or spots on the skin surface, which may become permanent.

  2. How to remove pigmentation?

    Skin pigmentation is due to several factors, and thus, medical assistance is advised to know the root cause. Many options are available for treating skin pigmentation when the case is severe or primary aids cannot give results. The options range from chemical peels, Intense Pulsed Light, and Laser Treatment. If you notice any dark patches, you should use a well-formulated sunscreen with SPF 40 or above. In addition, you may use anti-aging products and keep your skin cleansed and moisturized round the clock.

  3. Why pigmentation comes on face?

    There are several reasons why skin tends to develop a pigmentation different from its natural tone. It can be due to birthmarks, hormonal changes, medical conditions like pregnancy, Menopause, cancer medication, or it may even be caused due to the sun’s radiation.

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