PIGMENTATION PROBLEM SOLVERS

No one is immune from it. It could be a smattering of a dark silhouette along your top lip in the summer, dark patches that have housed themselves as a shadow where a blemish used to be, freckles that no longer disappear in the winter or a mask of melasma. Everyone from Kim Kardashian to Molly Mae, Lara Stone and Mindy Kaling have all been vocal about their personal battles with it.

The majority of us are see pigmentation caused by hormonal melasma, post-acne marks (also known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation), and sun spots but several factors can cause pigmentation issues; UV exposure, heat, prescription medications, irritation from skincare products or hormonal changes.

The tricky thing with pigmentation is that even when you think you have it under control, all it takes is one sunny day and BAM; it’s back. While hyperpigmentation can be difficult to eliminate completely, there are products that will help fade existing dark spots and prevent new ones occurring…

Vitamin C : slows down melanin production by inhibiting the action of the enzyme tyrosinase (responsible for melanin production). As well as stopping dark spots, this powerful brightening antioxidant helps to depigment the hyperpigmentation spots on the skin. It has excellent anti-inflammatory benefits too.

TRY: Dr Sam Flawless Vitamin C NAD+ Serum 15% Vitamin C Complex, £62

Melasyl: a new ingredient discovered by L’Oreal Labs visibly reduces dark spots. Essentially, while anti-hyperpigmentation ingredients of yesteryear target the effect of hyperpigmentation, Melasyl works by intercepting the production of excess melanin before it reaches the stage of showing on the skin. Currently being pioneered by La Roche Posay in their MelaB3 range, but I wouldn’t be surprised if other L’Oreal brands were using it within the next 12 months.

TRY: La Roche Posay MelaB3 Serum Intense Anti-Dark Spot Serum for Hyperpigmentation, £48 or use code THISISMOTHERSHIP to buy it for £37

Niacinamide: also known as B3, helps to suppress melanin production, reducing dark spots.  Niacinamide in concentrations of 5% (or higher) works via several pathways to keep new discolourations from appearing. At the same time, it breaks up existing discolouration so that your skin tone appears more even. Those who have dry or sensitive skin, will love it as it helps boost skins natural ceramide store too.

TRY: Naturium Niacinamide Serum 12% + Zinc 2%, £18

Azelaic Acid: aids in preventing and treating hyperpigmentation. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to tackle both acne and hyperpigmentation. This organic acid works mildly yet effectively on the skin to suppress hyperpigmentation. People can use azelaic acid for pigmentation during pregnancy to treat melasma that invades the skin due to hormonal changes. 

TRY: Beauty Pie Happy Face 10% Azelaic Acid Skin Clearing Gel Cream, £22 members (£60 non-members)

[Use code MOTHERSHIPSENTME for £10 off a new membership]

Retinol: is a popular ingredient for hyperpigmentation treatment. It is a type of retinoid (made from vitamin A) that help lighten light to brown dark spots on the face, hands, neck, or arms. Topical retinol also helps reduce sun spots, age spots, liver spots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Wondering how? Retinol is particularly effective at increasing cell turnover which is why you can gradually notice impressive results over time when the skin starts to shed darker cells unveiling newer healthier skin cells.

TRY: Medik8 Crystal Retinal Serum, £49

SPF: the best way to banish pigmentation from ever rearing its ugly head? SPF. Every day. Without fail. Find one you love using and then it won’t be a chore.

TRY: Naked Sundays Cabana Clear Water Gel SPF50, £25