Hyperpigmentation is caused by excess melanin production. It’s a skin condition that is characterised by the presence of dark spots or dark patches on your skin. Hyperpigmentation could manifest on any part of your body. Dark spots on your face, spotty arms and darkness along your inner thighs are some of the most common appearances amongst us Indians. A lot of factors can cause and increase our tendency to be prone to hyperpigmentation.
Here are a some of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation:
Sun exposure
We all know there’s a reason why every dermatologist and every supermodel swear by a little secret called sunscreen!
Acne
Acne leads to scarring and blemishes. If you’re on any medication for acne, or you use any over the counter remedies to deal with acne, NEVER SKIP SUNSCREEN! Exposure of damaged skin to sunlight can cause hyperpigmentation.
Genetics
Some people are simply genetically more prone to hyperpigmentation. It may be hereditary. In cases like these, there’s not much you can do to avoid it. All you can do it take additional care of your skin to ensure the condition doesn’t worsen with time and age.
Hormonal Changes and Medications
Hormonal changes like PCOD, PCOS, thyroid are known to cause hyperpigmentation in a lot of individuals. If you see sudden pigmented spots on your face or body, it would be best if you consult a specialist to rule out any diseases. Certain medications like birth control pills are also known to cause hyperpigmentation. Make sure you check with your doctor for any possible side effects.
Now coming to the remedies for hyperpigmentation, here are some over-the-counter products that will help you tackle hyperpigmentation.
1. Bioderma Photoderm Spot SPF50 Cream
If there’s one important message in this entire article, it is that you should NEVER skip sunscreen. This one from Bioderma is great for sensitive skin and it helps protect your skin against spots and blemishes. Always look for a broad spectrum sunscreen, one that protects your skin against UVA and UVB rays.
Price: ₹ 1,499 Buy it. Buy it here.
2. Just Herbs Gotukola Indian Ginseng Rejuvenating Facial Serum
This serum is made up of all organic ingredients designed to help you with aging, sun spots, pigmentation and textured skin. It is enriched with cold pressed oils of rosehip, wheatgerm, safflower and moringa, making this an all natural source of Vitamins A, C and E. This serum truly surprised me! In just a few weeks, I could see how this improved my skin’s overall texture and appearance.
Price: ₹ 1,125 Buy it. Buy it here.
3. Dr. Sheth’s Ultimate Brightening Youth Enhancer
Adding a multi-tasking night cream into your skincare routine is the best way to eliminate clutter and excess products from your nightstand. This cream from Dr. Sheth’s has over 15 active ingredients that help with everything from hydration, skin brightening and pigmentation to acne and ageing and skin repair.
Price: ₹ 2,250 Buy it. Buy it here.
4. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
If you’re looking for a light-weight serum that targets pigmentation and sunspots while hydrating your skin, the Alpha Arbutin serum is your best bet. It’s got a watery gel like consistency and works to reduce the appearance of marks, scars, hyperpigmentation, and age spots by inhibiting melanin production. You can use it both during the day and at night, so you DON’T have an excuse to skip the SPF.
Price: ₹ 691 Buy it. Buy it here.
5. Aroma Treasures Lightening Pigmentation Oil
This is a great body oil to help lighten pigmented areas. It minimises sun damage and skin irregularities and discolouration giving you even toned skin. Use it daily as a post-shower massage oil!
Price: ₹ 372 Buy it. Buy it here.
6. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution
This dark spot solution evens out your skin tone and diminishes dark spots and blemishes and prevents the formation of new discolourations. While this one is expensive, it’s definitely worth the money. It’s lightweight and absorbs instantly so you can use it AM and PM.
Price: ₹ 4650 Buy it. Buy it here.