Many people develop discolouration on their skin. Hyperpigmentation can occur because of a range of factors from acne scarring to hormonal changes (pregnancy is a common one), a genetic predisposition to overexposure to the sun. Unfortunately, no matter what the cause, as we age pigmentation becomes more obvious because of daily UV exposure.
Prevention
The best defence for UV induced pigmentation is prevention, avoiding too much sun exposure and regularly applying (and reapplying) sunscreen. If the pigmentation is caused by hormonal or genetic factors there is little you can do to prevent the onset of pigmentation however you can lessen the effect on your skin by reducing UV exposure. We should all abide by the mantra: less sun exposure, more sunscreen.
Cure
For those of you that already have hyperpigmentation, you may wish to consider treatments that may help fade the pigment.
Creams
It is common for hydroquinone creams (these are skin bleaching agents) to be prescribed to treat pigmentation. These work by preventing the production of melanin. Hydroquinone can be unpleasant to use because it can sting but it is very effective. It should not be used for long periods of time.
Peels
Some people opt for in-salon chemical peels. These work by exposing the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) to skin safe exfoliating chemicals. Chemical peels reveal new skin that has not been sun exposed and is likely to be more even-toned. Professional chemical peels have a high level of acids (between 10 and 30 percent) which can mean some post-treatment downtime - you may be rather red and you may peel. It is very important to vigilantly wear sunscreen (and avoid the sun) after a peel as you need to protect this newly exposed skin. It is also essential to invest in gentle, natural, plant-based daily skin care as anything with too many intensively active ingredients will put your skin under unnecessary stress, potentially damaging the skin barrier function.
Laser
Laser treatments for pigmentation are becoming more popular. If you are minded to try laser treatment make sure to do your research about credible facilities and the right kind of laser to use. It’s better to take a conservative approach.
If you are looking for a less invasive treatment, consistently using daily skincare with ingredients known to help brighten skin overall and fade dark spots over time.
Natural ingredients
Products with Vitamin C are perfect for fighting pigment. It brightens, helps exfoliation, improves hydration and protects the skin from environmental stressors which also cause pigmentation in the skin. It also fights free radicals slowing down the signs of ageing. Vitamin C is one of the key ingredients in the Velettà Purifying Mask, it is joined by neem leaf, baking soda and citric acid which are all powerful skin brightening ingredients. We have had excellent feedback from our customers, saying this product has helped fade pigmentation while brightening the skin.
The Velettà facial Cleansing Oil contains both Grapeseed and Tamanu Oils which both works to fade pigmentation. Grapeseed Oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to calm skin and reduce redness. It is rich in omega-6 fatty acids to deeply hydrate, plump and strengthen the skin while improving elasticity. It is also a pigment fighting ingredient that evens out the tone of the skin and can actually relieve minor forms of sun damage. Tamanu oil is great for sensitive skin and also works to firm, plump and smooth the skin while protecting it from environmental stressors. It is packed with antioxidants to fight free radicals and heal damaged skin, fading scarring and age spots at the same time.
Finally, our Velettà Youthful Glow AHA Radiance Treatment is the ultimate weapon in the fight against unwanted pigment. This magical product is a powerful natural exfoliator powered by natural acids including Lactic Acid which is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) known to encourage the skin to produce more ceramides for healthy looking skin. It also contains Liquorice Root Extract which is considered to help skin appear brighter and balance pigmentation.
