Freckles, brown spots, and darkened areas on the skin are commonly known as pigment spots. But, have you ever wondered what happens to the skin during the pigmentation process?
Melanocytes produce melanin, a pigment, which in turn causes pigmentation as part of a natural process. The substance is released into the nearby tissues and deposited by keratinocytes. These can then produce shading on the skin, hair, and eyes. Additionally, melanin provides security from hazardous UV rays. Keratinocytes storing too much melanin is responsible for hyperpigmentation, while too little melanin production by melanocytes results in hypopigmentation.
Curiosity about pigmentation causes and methods to lessen dark spots is common among many individuals. There are various causes that can lead to pigmentation, as our skin care experts indicate.
- Sunlight;
- Hormonal changes in the body (pigmentation often occurs during pregnancy or when hormonal contraceptives are used due to hormonal imbalance);
- Aging;
- Heredity;
- Skin lesions such as post-inflammatory pigmentation appear in skin areas after acne, especially after squeezing them;
- Chemical material. Some active ingredients, especially strong acids used by manufacturers of skin care products or cosmetics, can cause an increase in skin pigmentation if used incorrectly;
- Some diseases, such as high blood sugar, can cause an increase in skin pigmentation.
Sunscreen with a suitable SPF is effective for pigmentation-prone skin exposed to sunlight. Recommended by experts, a high SPF sunscreen (30-50) can safeguard against both UVA and UVB rays. In addition, incorporating products with antioxidants can assist in decreasing damage from free radicals.
Experts in skin care recommend various active ingredients that can help address pigmentation issues, such as skin lightening and exfoliating agents like retinoids, vitamins C and E, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). It's important to note that in addition to these treatments, moisturizing the skin and maintaining the protective hydrolipidic barrier is crucial. Doing so aids the skin in its natural defense against the harmful effects of sun damage.
Moon Cosmetics specialists recommend using products with a stable form of vitamin C and following the following care routine:
- For both morning and evening skincare routines, it's recommended to use a cleansing facial foam that contains 1% panthenol and 1% hydroxyethyl urea. This formula is effective in removing accumulated dirt, excess sebum, and makeup from the skin's surface.
- Incorporate a multi-functional facial tonic containing 3% niacinamide and 1% sodium PCA into your skincare routine. This tonic aids in maintaining the appropriate pH level of the skin, prepares it for subsequent skincare steps, and enhances the absorption of other products.
- Apply a few drops of vitamin C serum with 10% ethyl ascorbic acid and 0.5% ferulic acid after toning to brighten, firm and reduce pigmentation. This serum tackles pigmentation, aging signs, and brightens the skin while firming it.
- To help preserve skin moisture, applying regenerative cream that includes 1% ceramide NP and 1% vitamin E is advised. Vitamin E in this cream helps reduce the development of free radicals and tackle pigmentation problems in the skin.
