That you might not know
Although you might not know it by its proper scientific term, chances are you are familiar with hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition in which patches and area of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. Things like freckles and sunspots are common manifestations of this condition and today we’re going to discuss some common hyperpigmentation causes.
WHAT IS HYPERPIGMENTATION?
Hyperpigmentation is a skincare concern that affects millions of people, which means here at CONNECTED we’re asked for advice on how to treat hyperpigmentation all the time.
Hyperpigmentation is an inconsistency of color. There are different forms of hyperpigmentation: sun spots/solar lentigos, melasma, freckles, etc. Scars from acne or even injury (burns, cuts, abrasions) can cause hyperpigmentation as well.
7 COMMON CAUSES OF HYPERPIGMENTATION
As with most skin conditions, there’s rarely ever one cause. Understanding your skin health and the many factors that play into its health and appearance is vital when it comes to addressing the issue in a holistic, natural and long-term effective manner. Let’s review some common causes of hyperpigmentation.
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #1: SUN DAMAGE
Sunshine is a beautiful thing, but too much exposure means that UVA and UVB rays trigger an overproduction of melanin – the thing that gives our skin color. More specifically, UVB rays trigger immediate pigmentation (better known as sunburn), while UVA triggers delayed pigmentary changes (which show up approximately two to five days after a burn).
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #2: POLLUTION
It’s no surprise that pollution impacts our health. Pollution is also known to impact our skin health. Particulate matter and chemical pollutants, both acid or alkaline, irritate the skin. This irritation leads to melanocyte (melanin forming cell) over activity, which can result in hyperpigmentation.
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #3: ANCESTRY
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a genetic predisposition to it too, so it’s important to look into your family history in detail.
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #4: INJURY
The most common example of an injury that causes hyperpigmentation is picking at a pimple, the pimple resolves and leaves a reddish-brown spot. We know, we know, picking at a pimple can be a huge temptation, but don’t do it!
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #5: HORMONES
Oh hormones, they have a say in practically everything in our body, including our skin. Estrogen stimulates melanocyte production of pigment. This is why people who want to correct skin color shouldn’t be taking hormone supplements like birth control.
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #6: BLUE LIGHT
Blue light from computer lights and tv screens can trigger hyperpigmentation, which is why we recommend putting a filter on all of your devices in your ‘settings’ controls. Don’t let your screen time effect your skin health.
HYPERPIGMENTATION CAUSE #7: HEAT
Sweat and heat can trigger pigmentation. Even if you’re sitting in the shade, if you’re exposed to heat and sweating, it can cause hyperpigmentation.