Imagine if every time you had a spot you were left with a scar. This is the case (and more) for people who deal with hyperpigmentation.
Caused by an overproduction of melanin, hyperpigmentation is particularly common among people of colour. Not just acne scarring, it’s also important to note that hyperpigmentation also refers to dark patches of skin particularly around the eyes, knees, elbows and inner thigh area, which many people experience.
This scarring can be hard to disguise and even harder to get rid of, and many end up looking for quick solutions to get rid of the scarring and dark patches, which can at times be extremely dangerous.
With so many self-proclaimed skincare gurus online it can be hard to know who you should be listening to
Hyperpigmentation skincare specialist Dr. Vanita Rattan cautions against this, advising those that suffer from hyperpigmentation to “stay away from laser treatments and high percentage glycolic peels”, especially if you have darker skin.
“For many people of colour, these treatments can burn your skin, and make your hyperpigmentation a lot worse. Your skin cannot afford to burn, so if you’re getting any sort of treatment or product that makes your skin feel tingly, try to avoid at all costs,” she adds.
Due to lack of knowledge and overuse of products with harsh chemicals, Dr. Rattan has seen many people who have accidentally burnt their skin, which makes the scars even harder to get rid of, and can cause them to darker further.
And that’s the last thing you want. There are many tricks and tips online that claim to help get rid of hyperpigmentation quickly, but with so many self-proclaimed skincare gurus online it can be hard to know who you should be listening to. However, the best way to deal with hyperpigmentation is to have a solid morning skincare regime.
“The best advice I can offer anyone is to do your research, what works for your favourite YouTubers or your friends might not work for you.”
Dr. Rattan advises to “wash your face in the morning with a gentle facial wash, no harsh acids or scrubs. So many people tend to think if they use scrubs, they can scrub away the dark marks. But this is only temporary, and in the long run, you’re making it worse.” After cleansing she recommends you “go in with your moisturiser and SPF lotion”. Then you’re ready to apply any make-up.
Beauty YouTubers such as Jackie Aina have made the Korean 10-step skincare regime popular among women suffering from hyperpigmentation. Serums, in particular, have become popularised as they have high-potency ingredients targeted to certain solutions. When choosing your skincare products, it’s important to make they all contain the ingredients you need.
Dr. Rattan tell us: “Some acids are good and some are bad. Stay clear from TCA peels, as they tend to burn the skin. Vitamin C, salicylic acids and hyaluronic acids (in diluted forms) are all great ingredients to incorporate in your skincare products, as they can lessen the appearance of dark patches.”
So if you’re struggling to deal with or are bothered by hyperpigmentation, Dr. Rattan’s advice is a great place to start. Wear SPF, stay from harsh treatments and chemicals, avoid scrubs and instead look for brightening and exfoliating chemical ingredients to incorporate into your skincare regime. Most importantly, tailor what you use to fit your skin type: “The best advice I can offer anyone is to do your research, what works for your favourite YouTubers or your friends might not work for you.” Dr. Rattan suggests.