Because we’re often exposed to less sun in the winter, this time of year is the ideal time to get proactive about removing dark spots. But just how is that done, you ask? By incorporating stronger treatments at home and/or if you’re in the New York City area, by getting an Onda facial that’s focused on treating hyperpigmentation. But before we get down to the nitty gritty, let’s cover the basics.
WHAT IS HYPERPIGMENTATION?
Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that causes some areas of the skin to be darker than others. “Hyper” means more, and “pigment” means color. Hyperpigmentation can appear as brown, black, gray, red or pink spots or patches; the spots can occur in just one area of the body or all over and they aren’t painful or itchy, but may make one feel a bit self-conscious. Other names for these spots are age spots, sun spots, or liver spots.
WHAT CAUSES HYPERPIGMENTATION?
Skin gets its pigment from a substance called melanin, which is made by skin cells. When those skin cells are damaged or unhealthy, they can produce too much melanin; this over-abundance of melanin can clump, causing the affected area to appear darker than the surrounding skin.
Several things can cause hyperpigmentation, including but not limited to adrenal and thyroid disorders, genetics, hormonal changes, injury to the skin, medications, melasma, and sun damage.
CAN HYPERPIGMENTATION LEAD TO SKIN CANCER?
Unlike hyperpigmentation, skin cancer is often the result of damage that has manifested into cancerous cells, and will usually appear as a distinct mole or freckle. However, skin cancer can sometimes also appear as a patch of unevenly coloured skin, which is why it’s very important for anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation to visit their dermatologist for a skin cancer check.
A HYPERPIGMENTATION SKINCARE ROUTINE
A very important factor in fighting and preventing hyperpigmentation is a focus on the anti-inflammatory quality of the products and treatments you use. At home, you’ll need to exfoliate the dead skin layer that holds the pigment, supply it with vitamins to aid in rebuilding that layer, and help to inhibit melanin production (ie, pigment) in the future skin response from the factors that cause hyperpigmentation in the first place.
Here, a simple skincare regimen recommended by our lead esthetician Viktoria to treat hyperpigmentation using products that brighten, even out tone and complexion, and diminish those pesky dark spots.
Step 1: Cleanse
This should be done nightly. Viktoria loves Veracity’s Advanced Hydrating Cleanser because it addresses dehydration and dullness and protects the ever-important skin barrier. Vegan Lactic Acid in the formula gently exfoliates to visibly brighten skin. Viktoria hails this product as more than just a cleanser.
Step 2: Tone
Also nightly, reach for Moon Juice’s Acid Potion Resurfacing Exfoliator. All you need is a light swipe across your face on a cotton pad. This [practically magic] potion brightens and renews, while deeply nourishing and protecting the skin barrier. Viktoria loves it because not only is it brightening, but also has anti-inflammatory properties, a key to anti-aging.
Step 3: Exfoliate
Once or twice a week, exfoliate with Emma Lewisham’s Illuminating Exfolliant. All ingredients in this scientifically-proven formula are meticulously chosen to brighten, detoxify, smooth, and hydrate. Viktoria calls it her new favorite because it combats hyperpigmentation while being kind to and caring for the skin.
Step 4: Moisturize.
Viktoria’s last step in improving the skin’s complexion involves Venn’s Age Reversing All-In-One Concentrate. This multitasking treatment is a serum and moisturizer, as the name says, all in one. Viktoria says that after having used this product for a year, she noticed that her hyperpigmentation had all but disappeared. The formula is also very effective at maintaining results post-facial treatment and is dermatologist recommended.
A NOTE ON RETINOL FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION
Not a necessary step, but Viktoria says that if you want to go all-in and add one extra bit of oomph at the end of your routine, then Marie Veronique’s Multi-Retinol Night Emulsion is the powerhouse treatment for you. She praises this Onda newbie as “truly superior to prescription retinoids and anything currently on the market.” A ringing endorsement! Plus, it’s microbiome-friendly and unlike some other retinol treatments, works effectively without causing redness, discomfort, or irritation. We’re sold.