Hyperpigmentation FAQs: What Should I Use?
Series Part 1: Hyperpigmentation.
Stay tuned for more in this series where I’ll discuss products for sensitive skin, age management, acne, and dehydration.
Corthe Lightening Oxy Peel
Because hyperpigmentation is one of the most frequently asked questions in my treatment room, I decided to share more about what it is and what ingredients I recommend to help manage it.
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that results in darkened patches or spots on the skin due to an overproduction of melanin. This can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation (including acne), or certain medications. The first and most crucial step in addressing hyperpigmentation is daily use of SPF. Sunscreen helps prevent further pigmentation and protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can exacerbate discoloration.
For more targeted treatment, incorporating tyrosinase inhibitors into your skincare routine is essential and I will typically recommend as part of your home routine.
What is a Tyrosinase Inhibitor? Tyrosinase inhibitors are ingredients that block the activity of tyrosinase, reducing melanin production and helping to even out skin tone. Common ingredients like kojic acid, azeliac acid, licorice extract, tranexamic acid, and mandelic acid are considered tyrosinase inhibitors.
Product Recommendations for Hyperpigmentation: Here are some products from skincare lines inside Skin by Cynthia that I recommend for addressing hyperpigmentation:
Hale & Hush Rare Mandelic Serum, contains 8% mandelic acid, Vitamin C, and other ingredients improving the appearance of uneven skin tone, scarring, texture, and hyperpigmentation due to acne or sun damage.
KrX Mela Defence Whitening Serum, contains 5% Tranexamic Acid, 3% Niacinamide, and RiFerm-NPG. This is the perfect formula to target stubborn hyperpigmentation due to sun damage or even melasma while providing antioxidant protection. Correcting, but keeping the skin barrier healthy and strong.
Face Reality Mandelic 5%, 8%, 11%, and 15%, contains l-mandelic acid and l-lactic acid. This is a water-based and acne-safe formulation recommended to treat acne, excess oil, scarring, and hyperpigmentation.
KrX BioHerb 50 Peel (resurfacing treatment) and Dermathod O2 Tox, both are spicule resurfacing treatments that can be used at home as an advanced exfoliation to target hyperpigmentation and signs of aging. Key ingredient in both is the hydrolyzed sea sponge, known for its poly-pharmacy properties and being rich in minerals and amino acids.
Hale & Hush Rare Retinal Serum, contains retinaldehyde the most advanced and bioavailable form of Vitamin A. This retinal is combined with anti-glycation ingredients to reduce the potential for irritation commonly associated with retinoids. A product you need if you want to increase radiance (goodbye pigmentation), elasticity, tone, texture, and overall skin health.
Dermathod Priming Peel Booster Pads, a combination of PHA (poly hydroxy acids) + LHA (lipid hydroxy acids). A slow releasing exfoliating treatment to target hyperpigmentation, unclog pores, improve hydration, and promote collagen production. Great for Keratosis Pilaris as well!
Important Note: Reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation can vary significantly based on internal factors (such as genetics and diet) and external factors (such as sun exposure and pollution). This is why a personalized skin consultation, complete with a skin analysis performed by a licensed professional, is key to creating an effective treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Information in this article is credited to KrX, Kin Aesthetics, Face Reality, and Hale & Hush.
