Melanin is a type of pigment in the skin which the skin cells produce to protect from damage that UV light causes. People have different levels of melanin in their skin, which accounts for their skin’s overall color. However, the skin may create too much melanin in a specific area, causing the skin to darken. This is hyperpigmentation.
Skin hyperpigmentation or as generally referred to as melasma is common in women and often is well described and completely benign in nature.
Keep reading to know more about why hyperpigmentation occurs on the face.
Why does hyperpigmentation appear?
The physiology of hyperpigmentation appears to be related to the increased production of estrogens, and perhaps to increased levels of progesterone or a melanocyte-stimulating hormone. For an expecting mother, this hyperpigmentation can be a nightmare.
Skin care products contain a variety of active ingredients, which are widely concerned by cosmetic dermatologists because of their high safety, good tolerance and the effect of improving the damaged skin barrier. Using skin care products alone or in combination with routine treatment not only can improve the curative effect for melasma, reduce side effects and recurrence rate, but also improve patient satisfaction.
Niacinamide:
A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology revealed that a 5% niacinamide moisturizer applied twice daily for two weeks significantly improved hyperpigmentation. This shows that niacinamide has the potential of brightening skin over weeks. Niacinamide works via several pathways, keeping new discolorations from appearing. At the same time, it also helps break up existing discoloration so your skin tone looks more even.
Zinc:
Topical zinc therapy is not highly effective in reducing the severity of melasma, but adding zinc to current topical treatments could improve treatment response.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C can be used as a brightening agent to lighten the hyperpigmentation of your melasma. It works by inhibiting the enzyme Tyrosinase, preventing the formation of melatonin.
Retinoids:
Ingredients in the vitamin A family (i.e. Retinol, Tretinoin, etc) and acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid) help damaged pigmented skin cells shred faster, so they also help with melasma.
Hyaluronic Acid:
Hyaluronic Acid does not prevent or brighten hyperpigmentation spots on the skin; instead it focuses more on hydrating and adding water/moisture to your skin. This helps plump, firm and smooth your skin.
Also Read:
- Benefits Of Using Ice Cubes For Face
- Everything You Need To Know About Scalp Massage Brush
- Does Fish Oil Really Work For Skin?
About the Author: Dr. Sayyam Azam is a certified dermatologist who has specialized in Clinical Dermatology (Pakistan) and Aesthetic Medicine (US). During her specialized training, she was involved in multiple clinical as well as aesthetic dermatological procedures such as botox, fillers, and chemical peels. As a licensed dermatologist, she is now running a state-of-the- art Aesthetic Center (The Face Clinic) in Multan, Pakistan.
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