What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation, or skin pigmentation, is when certain areas of your skin are darker than the rest. It's a fairly common skin concern that affects people of all skin types. Hyperpigmentation happens when your skin produces more melanin than normal. Melanin is the pigment responsible for giving your skin its colour. The excess pigment is deposited deep within the skin, giving it a darker look than the skin around it.

What Can Cause Hyperpigmentation?

Understanding the root cause of hyperpigmentation is the first step toward prevention and treatment. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Sun damage. UV rays from the sun are responsible for up to 80 percent of the signs of premature skin ageing. One of these signs can be hyperpigmentation in the form of age spots due to lifelong sun exposure.
• Chloasma (Melasma). Patches of dark pigmentation, usually on your face, can indicate hormonal changes. It is mostly associated with pregnancy hormones and is sometimes called the 'mask of pregnancy'.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. When your skin goes through an inflammatory phase, such as acne or eczema, it may produce darker spots after it heals.
• Medical conditions. In some cases, hyperpigmentation can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Seek professional help from your doctor or dermatologist if you're uncertain about the cause.

How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

Although not all causes of hyperpigmentation can be prevented, there are steps you can take to prevent certain instances:

• Avoid direct sunlight. Stay out of the sun during peak hours of 10 am to 2 pm. Sit under a sun umbrella or in the shade when outdoors to minimize your sun exposure.
• Use a hat. Shade your face and scalp with a wide-brimmed hat.
• Incorporate Vitamin C into your routine. Vitamin C is a nutrient-rich antioxidant known for its powerful skin-brightening and anti-aging capabilities. Try Olay Vitamin C + AHA24 Serum with Vitamin C combined with Lactic Acid and Niacinamide that hydrates, brightens and evens skin tone.
• Apply SPF. Choose sun protection that is at least SPF 15 and use it daily, even in cooler months. Try Olay Regenerist Whip SPF 30 for a 2-in-1 benefit—moisturise and protect your skin against the sun.
• Limit touching your skin. Scratching or picking at spots can result in inflammation and lead to darker pigmentation. Wash your hands before applying skincare or makeup.

Effective Skincare for Hyperpigmentation

Certain ingredients and products can help fade the look of dark spots and reduce the appearance of brownish patches of hyperpigmentation. Consider these treatment options:

• Niacinamide. Also known as Vitamin B3, this ingredient has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and even skin tone. Choose a product with Vitamin C and SPF30 with Niacinamide for added sun protection.
• Retinol. Retinol can be helpful in reducing the appearance of dark pigmentation spots by speeding up natural skin cell turnover. Try Olay Retinol24 Night Face Moisturiser, which combines Retinoid Complex and Vitamin B3 for reduced fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.
• Microdermabrasion kit. These kits offer a safe treatment done in the comfort of your home. They gently remove the top layer of dead skin for a radiant result, and are effective when hyperpigmentation occurs in the epidermis, the top layer of the skin.
• BB creams. Worn under makeup or as a lightweight moisturiser, BB creams help even out your skin tone and conceal hyperpigmented areas. Choose Olay Complete BB Cream for radiant skin and an even complexion.
• Vitamin C. Applying a product containing Vitamin C on your skin can help fade marks of hyperpigmentation for a more even-toned complexion. Olay Vitamin C + AHA24 Gel Face Cream with Vitamin C, AHA and Niacinamide evens your skin tone while enhancing brightness.