Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition and cosmetic issue, rarely posing threats to health. Dark Spots. Discolouration. Skin Patches. Acne Scars.Did reading that make you sigh? Fret not, there’s a lot you can do to keep hyperpigmentation at bay. 

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Skincare can seem a little complicated at times. Amidst synonymously used words and an abundance of products, it is easy to feel like a lost ball in the high weeds.

We’re here to break it down for you. Hyperpigmentation refers to patches of skin that appear darker than their surrounding areas. It can either affect small areas or the entire body.

When the skin produces excess melanin – the pigment that gives one their natural skin tone, problems of hyperpigmentation come to the fore.

Although not particularly harmful, it could be an indicator of an underlying condition/disease.

Causes for Hyperpigmentation

Now, why in the world did your skin decide to produce excess melanin? Furthermore, what are other causes of hyperpigmentation? Read on.

UV Rays

The sun is probably the biggest culprit when discolouration issues are concerned. In an effort to protect the skin from prolonged sun exposure, the body boosts melanin production.

Pregnancy

Hormonal fluctuations alter the production of melanin in the body. Women often complain of melasma – the appearance of brown patches particularly on the face.

Pregnancy skin care is truly a whole new ball game.

Skin Inflammation

The skin deals with a range of trauma such as acne, blemishes, wounds, injuries, and rashes. The aftermath of this trauma often looms in the form of patches and darkened skin.

While these are the most commonly reported causes for hyperpigmentation, your story could be different. Irrespective, you do not need to conceal your pretty imperfections with layers of makeup.

What follows is a guide to preventing hyperpigmentation on the cheap!

Prevent Hyperpigmentation: Lifestyle Changes

Before moving on to some wonderful (and fun) DIY masks and pastes, we’re going to layout lifestyle changes that could help prevent hyperpigmentation. Are you ready?

All Hail Sun Protection!

There’s really nothing like too much sun protection. An SPF of 30 or higher is almost a need for healthy skin. If you’re confused about the type of sunscreen your skin requires, refer to an SPF guide online.

Furthermore, get those scarves, sunglasses, and hats out. They’re much more than just a fashion statement.

Keep Your Hands Off Your Face

We won’t lie - picking at acne and scratching dried up wounds is rather tempting. However, this is one of the most common skincare mistakes.

It will either lead to hyperpigmentation or make it worse.

Go Big on Hydration!

There’s a direct correlation between hydration and new skin cell turnover. Drinking lots of water will help lighten up dark spots and patches.

DIY Face Masks and Pastes to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

Fortunately, our planet has been blessed with naturally-occurring ingredients, that are valuable to the skin. Most of the time, one doesn’t even have to look beyond their kitchen.

Following are ingredients that might prove helpful in fighting pigmentation problems:

• Aloe Vera gel
• Almond oil
• Milk
• Oats
• Citrus fruits
• Tomato paste
• Honey
• Sandalwood
• Papaya

At yours, we strongly believe that skincare can be made fun. Furthermore, we’re all about clean, ethical, and sustainable skincare.

What follows is our favourite DIY face masks, that require little effort and offer maximum results. Let’s get started!

The Oats Mask to Fight Discolouration

Things you’ll need:

• Milk or yoghurt
• Oats
• Honey

Prepping and Applying:

It really is as simple as mixing the 3 together, until you get a homogenous mixture that’s easy to apply to the skin. Leave it on for about 25-30 minutes, and wash it off with lukewarm water.

The Sugar Scrub for Exfoliation

Things you’ll need:

• Granulated sugar
• Honey
• Almond oil
• An essential oil of your choice (peppermint, lavender, lemon, orange)

Prepping and Applying:

Blend the ingredients together, to obtain the desired consistency. Massage the scrub on your face and your body, and rinse with warm water.

This scrub is one of our favourites since it can be stored in an air-tight jar for at least one month. Furthermore, its exfoliating properties don’t just cure hyperpigmentation, but also a host of other skin conditions.

The Turmeric Paste for Skin Lightening

Things you’ll need:

• Turmeric powder
• Yoghurt or milk
• Lemon juice
• Almond oil

Prepping and Applying:

As done with the above-mentioned masks, simply bring all the ingredients together. If you have sensitive skin, you can substitute lemon juice with cucumber juice.

Apply the paste to your face or the affected area, and let it be until it hardens. However, don’t let it dry out to the point that you can see cracks – this will pose risks of skin dehydration. Use warm water and gentle circular movements to reveal glowing skin.

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We can go on about the different types and benefits of DIY face masks. Not only are these light on the pocket but also highly therapeutic. After all, self-care is the greatest healer. 😉

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Need a regimen that helps with reducing pigmentation? Take our 3-min skin assessment and let us do the work!