Unnecessary Evil: Hyperpigmentation

As if dealing with huge mountain sized zits isn't traumatizing enough, the after-math of such zits are far worst than the zit itself. Yes I'm speaking about dark spots also known as Hyperpigmentation. If you had a chance to read my skin woes then you know that I am no stranger to acne.  I dealt with it as a tween, teen and grown-ass woman but what I've grown to realize its not necessarily the pimple that I loathe (they are usually gone within a week) its the dark spots that are left behind to remind me of the pimple for months on in. Of course I wouldn't dare pop the pimple as a matter of fact I would avoid it like the plague but once the inflammation went away I was still left with a "friend".  

During one of my many visits to the dermatologist, I was able to gain a better understanding of this common skin condition. After being told "only time will fade the scars" I learned about the causes, effects and treatments that can help fade spots faster.  

Hyperpigmentation is a condition that is caused by an increase in the skin’s melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to skin and hair. Unfortunately, due to the high levels of melanin in our skin, individuals of color are highly susceptible to this common plight; the darker the skin, the more prone to discoloration an individual will be.

There are many factors that will trigger or intensify the appearance of dark spots and scarring. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a direct result of acne. PIH is a discoloration that occurs following an inflammatory wound to the skin; this can include pimples, cuts, burns, picking, etc. When such a trauma takes place, skin cells are automatically triggered to regenerate and produce melanin in order to heal the wound. But the result is typically excessive levels of pigment that surpass the intensity and lifespan of the original spot. Aside from acne, certain drugs and antibiotics can also cause hyperpigmentation, as well as cosmetic procedures like laser hair removal and microdermabrasion. It’s important to note that dark spots are triggered, and extremely intensified, by direct exposure to sunlight as well. Thus, lack of sunscreen use will only make matters ten times worst.

There are both natural and chemical treatments for hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is not permanent so dark marks will eventually fade but this can be a very lengthy process. Natural solutions such as glycolic acid, cocoa and shea butters and Vitamins A/C/E are great for targeting marks because they heal damaged cells.

Another popular option is a chemical lightening agent called Hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is available in varying potencies, typically 1-2% (over-the counter) or 3-4% (by prescription only). It works by blocking the enzymes responsible for melanin production. Thus, it should only be applied directly to the dark spots (otherwise, you will be lightening your regular skin as well). It is strongly advised that products with hydroquinone be used at night, as they can have reverse effects when exposed to sunlight; spots will actually become darker. Even once the creams have soaked into the skin overnight, sunscreen is an absolute must. It is very important that races with darker complexions also protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

For me, my previous accutane treatment and clarisonic helps keep breakouts and hyperpigmentation at bay. I still get random flair ups that leave the dreaded 'dark marks' but I just dab vitamin E oil to help speed the fading process and I WEAR AN SPF 45 MOISTURIZER EVERY-SINGLE-DAY {Aveeno Positively Radiant}!

Here are some products you can to try to rid your skin of hyperpigmentation and help achieve flawless skin: 

• Ambi Even and Clear Targeted Mark Minimizer {ambiflawlessskin.com}
• Vitamin E Oil {puritanspride.com}
• Fellow blogger Glamour Puss swears by Clinique Even Better Clinical: Dark Spot Corrector {sephora.com}
• Black Opal Dual Complex Fade Gel {amazon.com}
• Palmer's Scar Serum {drugstore.com}

Do you have issues with hyperpigmentation? What do you use to help fades the 'dark spots'? 

Photo source