Want tips for hyperpigmentation and age spots? Read on
Change is as good as a holiday – though in this case, not always the most welcome. Hyperpigentation refers to localised changes in skin colour and is thanks to activity in the melanocytes (pigment cells) which produce the protein melanin. In short: when more melanin is produced in a certain area, the skin darkens. Sun exposure, age, family history, hormones, inflammatory skin conditions and reactions to certain medications can all play a role. You may have heard of:
Age spots (sunspots or liver spots)
Smaller spots commonly on the hands, face and neck; due to extended sun exposure.
Melasma
Larger patches of darkened skin usually on the face, forehead and belly; typically associated with pregnancy and hormonal changes. Find out more about melasma here.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Spots or patches of darkened skin appearing after a flare up of eczema, acne or other inflammatory skin conditions.
How can I treat hyperpigmentation?
Your TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacy has topical treatments to help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation. Sometimes, a combination of products is more effective, including ingredients and nutrients such as:1,2,3
- ascorbic acid/ascorbyl glucoside (Vitamin C)
- kojic acid
- hydroquinone
- retinoids
- topical corticosteroid
- and one of our favourites, niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Why we love niacinamide!
- It’s an antioxidant, so helps protect skin from environmental effects.
- Assists even out the appearance of age spots and pigmentation, discoloration, redness and flushing.4
- This go-to nutrient also supports the skin barrier and defends against loss of moisture.4
Can I minimise pigmentation?
It's difficult to prevent entirely. However, you can reduce your risk by:
- Asking your Pharmacist for products to suit you skin
- Maintaining your usual skincare routine
- Treating acne and eczema
- Applying insect repellant to help prevent bites
How can I treat hyperpigmentation?
Your TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacy has topical treatments to help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation. Sometimes, a combination of products is more effective, including ingredients and nutrients such as:1,2,3
- ascorbic acid/ascorbyl glucoside (Vitamin C)
- kojic acid
- hydroquinone
- retinoids
- topical corticosteroid
- and one of our favourites, niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Why we love niacinamide!
- It’s an antioxidant, so helps protect skin from environmental effects.
- Assists even out the appearance of age spots and pigmentation, discoloration, redness and flushing.4
- This go-to nutrient also supports the skin barrier and defends against loss of moisture.5
Can I minimise pigmentation?
It's difficult to prevent entirely. However, you can reduce your risk by:
- Asking your Pharmacist for products to suit you skin
- Maintaining your usual skincare routine
- Treating acne and eczema
- Applying insect repellant to help prevent bites
TW&CM Pty Ltd is in a paid partnership with the supplier of the product/s featured. *Always read the label and follow the directions for use. ΔSunscreens are only one part of sun protection. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent re-application or use in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.
Sources:
1 https://dermnetnz.org/topics/pigmentation-disorders
2 https://www.webmd.com/beauty/ss/slideshow-how-fade-age-spots
3 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323808#treatment
4 https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skincare/niacinamide-and-vitamin-c
5 https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-age-spots#In-office-treatments-for-age-spots
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Δ Sunscreens are only one part of sun protection. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent re-application or use in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.
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