SKINCARE
Addressing Hyperpigmentation
Darkening patches are issues we all face. While hyperpigmentation is generally harmless, it can be a source of concern for those who experience it. In this article, we explore the causes of hyperpigmentation, effective ingredients to treat it, and the best of our products to target it.
Causes:
- Sun Exposure: One of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation is excessive sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun triggers melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin color. In response to sun exposure, the skin produces more melanin to protect itself, leading to sunspots, freckles, and other forms of hyperpigmentation.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: This type of hyperpigmentation often occurs after skin trauma, such as acne, cuts, burns, or other injuries. Inflammatory responses can stimulate the production of excess melanin in the affected area, leading to dark spots.
- Hormonal Changes (particularly during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control pills) can lead to a condition known as melasma. Melasma causes dark patches to appear on the face, often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.”
- Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to hyperpigmentation.
- Skin Disorders: Certain skin conditions, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and actinic keratosis, can result in hyperpigmented patches.
FOUR NATURAL INGREDIENTS TO COMBAT HYPERPIGMENTATION
Licorice extract
Licorice extract contains glabridin, which has been shown to inhibit pigmentation by blocking an enzyme needed for melanin production. It may help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to brighten the skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. It inhibits melanin production and can also protect the skin from oxidative stress. In our Fresh Series serums it is represented by a blend of fruits, most noticeably our freeze-dried Acerola fruits.
Niacin
Niacin has anti-inflammatory properties and can help fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and improve overall skin texture. In our Sapphō’s Brightening Serum it is delivered by our blue-green algae that is present also in our mask.
AHAs
While improving the penetration of other skincare ingredients, AHAs used with antioxidants in our Sapphō’s Brightening Serum combat hyperpigmentation.