Hyperpigmentation

Brown spots, also known as pigmentation spots or hyperpigmentation, are a daily concern for many people. While most are harmless, many are a nuisance. Preventing their appearance is often more effective than treating them once they've set in.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Melanin is the brown pigment that makes skin colourful. The higher a person's melanin level, the darker their skin. Brown spots are an uneven overproduction of melanin. Hyperpigmentation is found in both men and women.

What causes brown spots?

1- Sun exposure

Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulates the skin's melanin production. Excessive, unprotected exposure can, therefore, lead to brown spots on the skin. In fact, the majority of brown spots appear mainly on the areas most exposed to the sun, such as the hands, face, and neck. Good sun protection is crucial to prevent and avoid aggravating brown spots.  

2- Age

As everyone knows, aging affects the skin. Wrinkles are a good example, but hyperpigmentation can also be caused by aging skin.

3- Hormonal changes

Fluctuating hormones can also cause skin changes, and hyperpigmentation can be one of them. Pregnancy or oral contraceptives can cause melasma, also known as pregnancy mask.

4- Inflammatory disorders

Brown spots can develop due to an inflammatory condition, such as acne, burns, wounds or eczema.

What are the ways to eliminate or reduce brown spots?

There are various topical products available to minimize or eliminate brown spots. These include:

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can reduce the appearance of dark spots by acting on melanin production. Its antioxidant effect is also helpful for prevention. 

Niacinamide

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, can reduce hyperpigmentation. Its anti-inflammatory action makes it particularly useful in cases caused by inflammatory disorders such as acne. 

Retinol

Retinol is an ingredient often found in anti-aging products. It has a beneficial effect on the appearance of dark spots. However, its application can irritate, particularly at the start of treatment. A gradual increase in application is suggested. This product sensitizes the skin to the sun, so sun protection is doubly important.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone can fade brown spots. This product sensitizes the skin to the sun, so sun protection is doubly important. Like retinol, hydroquinone can make skin more sensitive to the effects of the sun.

Scrubs

Exfoliating the skin removes dead cells and promotes cell renewal. Exfoliation also enhances the penetration and efficacy of topical products.

Sun protection

Again, the key is sun protection. Whether for prevention or to limit aggravation, it's important to protect yourself from the sun. A quality sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) greater than 30 should be applied generously and frequently. 

Laser and pulsed light

Laser or Intense Pulsed Light treatments may be an option for removing pigmentation spots. These techniques can be expensive, but be sure to select the right professional to treat your skin.

Other techniques

Cryotherapy, dermabrasion and exfoliation are also techniques that can be considered to eradicate brown spots. Talk to your healthcare professional for more information.

In short, the key to preventing brown spots is rigorous sun protection. Although specific causes, such as aging and hormonal changes, are unavoidable, minimizing sun exposure and using suitable products can help maintain even, radiant skin.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with the cosmetics counter or the laboratory. They'll be happy to advise you!