What is Hyperpigmentation + How to Combat It

Hyperpigmentation affects many different people due to various causes, and it can present itself in different forms on the skin. While there are chemical and medical "treatments" for the condition, here at withSimplicity, we like to research and develop products that fight the causes naturally.

WHAT IS HYPERPIGMENTATION + ITS CAUSES?

Hyperpigmentation is the coloring or darkening of the skin in the form of age spots or liver spots due to increased melanin. It can be caused by changes in hormones, too much sun exposure, or injury to the skin. Dark spots/hyperpigmentation is typically harmless. In general, we just want to get rid of them due to appearance.

External factors are major contributors to hyperpigmentation. Increased hormone levels, especially during pregnancy, can speed up melanin production. This is why pregnant women may notice dark spots around their face or other areas on their body. Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and chemotherapy drugs, can also be a catalyst for the overproduction of melanin.

WHO IS MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO HYPERPIGMENTATION?

There really aren’t certain skin types that are more susceptible to hyperpigmentation, except acne-prone skin. Those with deep cystic acne or those who pick at pimples may experience scarring and darkened skin pigmentation. Darker skin tones are naturally more susceptible to dark spots.

HOW CAN YOU WARD OFF HYPERPIGMENTATION?

It’s not possible to 100% prevent hyperpigmentation; however there are a few practices you can incorporate into your daily routine to lessen your chance of developing dark spots:

Use a sunscreen. We recommend mineral sunscreens because they don’t contain chemicals that cause adverse skin effects. We also recommend making sure the sunscreen has non-nano zinc and titanium dioxide particles. Non-nano particles will not absorb into the skin and bloodstream.
Avoid using any type of skincare tool with needles or harsh bristles. These will irritate the skin.
Avoid the sun during the times when it’s stronger - typically midday from 10am-4pm.
Gently Exfoliate. Avoid face scrubs or exfoliators that contain salt or sugar. These ingredients are too harsh on the delicate skin on the face and can lead to scarring. That being said, it is still important exfoliate to remove dead skin cells - just make sure it’s with something gentle such as oatmeal or dried botanicals.

CAN HYPERPIGMENTATION BE TREATED NATURALLY?

We take a natural approach to skincare and prefer to use ingredients that are gentle on the skin and work with the body’s natural processes in place of acid peels that cause inflammation.

Our favorite ingredients for combatting hyperpigmentation are:

Oatmeal
Citrus Oils (in small amounts)
Carrot Seed Oil
Turmeric

As we mentioned before, exfoliating 1-2 times a week is great for hyperpigmentation. This will help to remove any dead skin cells and slowly remove discolored skin layers.