Whether it’s a suntan or melasma, we can all agree that hyperpigmentation is downright annoying. I like to think that most of us have experienced some form of hyperpigmentation frustration at some point in our lives. In another hand? We are in it together. Fortunately, we live in a world where science and skin care go hand in hand. I contacted three skin care professionals — Dr. Nancy Samolitis, dermatologist with training in cosmetic dermatology, Heather D. Rogers, dermatologist and founder of Doctor Rogers, and Kasey Boone, licensed esthetician and creator Discover Glow Skincare – for expert recommendations on the best melasma creams.
Before we dive into the top products that help with hyperpigmentation, let’s dive a little deeper into hyperpigmentation 101. Below, our experts take a closer look at hyperpigmentation. What is pigmentation and tips to help you treat it.
What is skin hyperpigmentation?
In a nutshell, hyperpigmentation is an area of skin that appears darker due to overproduction of the pigment melanin. Dr. Samolitis breaks it. “There are several different types of hyperpigmentation including papules (sun spots/freckles), melasma (uneven patches of pigmentation) and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin in acne-prone areas). , rash or injury).”
What causes skin hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by many conditions, but there are several main causes. Dr. Rogers lists them out: “Combination of genetic predisposition, sun exposure, hormones, and inflammatory skin conditions caused by acne or trauma.” She also explains that it tends to be at its peak in the summer, as the sun stimulates our melanocytes, or pigment cells, to work to protect our cells from harmful effects. harmful effects of UV rays.
What types of treatments are there for hyperpigmentation?
Unfortunately, according to Dr. Rogers, hyperpigmentation is difficult to treat and cannot be completely cured. But no need to stress: there are ways to make it better. Hyperpigmentation treatments also come in a variety of degrees – “from intense laser resurfacing, chemical peels, and brightening facials, to sunscreens and serums for facial skin,” said Boone. Most treatments “include topical ingredients that slow down melanin production and speed up skin cell turnover to get rid of existing pigment cells,” says Dr. Samolitis. She often uses in-office peels and lasers to “enhance exfoliation of the skin and optimize the skin’s ability to absorb skin-lightening products used at home.” Dr. Rogers cautions that “you must be very gentle with laser treatments because too much heat or energy can cause inflammation, leading to more pigmentation.”
You can also treat hyperpigmentation by eliminating the cause. Dr. Rogers notes that reducing sun exposure and managing hormones and inflammation can reduce future brown spots. Topical agents such as Vitamin C, hydroquinone, retinoids, AHAs, BHAs can treat existing melasma.
In terms of a skin care routine, Dr. Rogers suggests using a serum with Vitamin C “to protect your skin from free radicals generated by the sun and pollution, while lightening discolorations. the brown element you created.” At night, she suggests using more potent serums (see below) to promote cell turnover and inhibit the formation of new pigments.
With those insights in mind, here are the best expert-backed melasma creams you can buy.
10 best melasma creams, according to experts
Do you have hyperpigmentation? What products are you excited to incorporate into your routine?
