Hyperpigmentation: A Science Backed Approach

Facial hyperpigmentation is a common problem among both women and men. It refers to areas that have a darkened or discolored appearance. It is an umbrella term that can refer to any darkening or discoloration, no matter the cause. In fact, there is a wide range of potential causes and subtypes that may utilize different terminology. Although hyperpigmentation is quite common, it’s often difficult to treat if you don’t first understand the underlying causes and the corresponding remedies. If you’re struggling with this, you could benefit from a personalized skincare solution grounded in science, such as the PROVEN method.

Melanin is a naturally-occurring pigment that provides color to the skin and hair. Everyone has a certain number of melanocytes in their body that determines their skin tone and the shade of their hair. However, in some people, the melanocytes produce more melanin than in other people. Excess production is responsible for the development of areas of skin hyperpigmentation.

Although this is typically harmless, it’s aesthetically undesirable as it can contribute to an uneven skin tone. If you find yourself spending an absurd amount of money on full-coverage foundations and concealers to cover up your dark spots and achieve an even skin tone, you’re not alone!

Types of hyperpigmentation

There are many different types of hyperpigmentation, along with multiple possible causes that differ from person to person. For example, it’s possible for your darkened areas of skin to be caused by hormonal imbalances. It’s also possible for dark spots to develop after the skin sustains trauma. Unprotected exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun is another common cause.

Dark spots on the skin could even be an undesirable side effect from certain medications, especially those that affect your hormone levels -- like hormonal birth control pills. Other medications that may contribute to the development of hyperpigmentation include antimalarial drugs and tricyclic antidepressants.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or PIH is a skin condition that can affect both the face and the body. It develops when an area of the skin is subjected to trauma and inflammation. This triggers the increase in melanin production from the melanocytes. Nearly any type of micro- trauma can result in PIH. Many people develop it after an acne breakout, particularly if they pick at the acne lesions. Skin rashes and injuries are another possible cause. Although PIH is not permanent, it does tend to be long-lasting. Furthermore, if the area is treated abrasively or continues to be picked at, the darkened area will last longer. Our products’ ingredients for hyperpigmentation are clinically proven to be safe, effective, and gentle on your skin. Plus, all of our products are non-toxic and cruelty-free.

At PROVEN, our approach to the treatment of this is individualized. We use a powerful AI algorithm that processes your responses to questions about your skin concerns, skin type, lifestyle, and environment. Then, our Stanford-trained scientists formulate three multifunctional products designed specifically to meet your unique needs. In addition to using PROVEN products to achieve your skincare goals, we recommend taking the following steps to mitigate your hyperpigmentation:

Manage sun exposure

Dermatologists strongly recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. Sun protection is essential regardless of the time of year and whether or not it’s cloudy out. This is because the sun’s ultraviolet rays are so powerful that they can reach your skin through the clouds or even through the windows in your home. Experts recommend a product with at least SPF 30 for everyday wear and incorporating additional protection during extended periods of sun exposure.

Choose makeup products carefully

Use non-comedogenic products that will not clog your pores and increase the risk of acne breakouts. Even natural ingredients like shea butter, while beneficial to some, are so thick that they can easily clog pores and contribute to breakouts. For this reason, we always recommend a personalized skincare routine that is based on your skin type and other factors. In order to avoid breakouts and prevent the spread of bacteria, you should also clean all makeup brushes thoroughly and regularly.

Avoid abrasive treatments

Exfoliation can be helpful for hyperpigmentation and is a beneficial step within any skincare routine. However, overly abrasive treatments can worsen it. Avoid peels and dermabrasion that use strong chemicals to remove several layers of skin. It may also be a good idea for you to avoid particularly rough physical exfoliants that may damage the skin and actually lead to PIH. For instance, ground walnuts and sugar may be too rough on your skin. Instead, we recommend gentle chemical exfoliants, specifically alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid, azelaic acid, and lactic acid.

Moisturize regularly

If your hyperpigmentation is caused by acne scars due to an oily skin type, you may think that you’re safe to skip the moisturizing step within your skincare routine since your skin seems to produce enough moisture on its own. However, this could actually be doing more harm than good because a lack of moisture will simply cause the skin to produce more oil -- locking you into a vicious cycle of oiliness, shine, and breakouts. If you have oily skin, we recommend a lightweight moisturizer with hyaluronic acid that’s nourishing for the skin but won’t clog pores.

At PROVEN, we believe skincare products should do more than cleanse and moisturize. We also believe that over the counter products will never be as effective at solving hyperpigmentation as skincare formulated specifically for each individual’s needs -- using clinically proven ingredients.

Introducing the PROVEN method: a science-driven approach toward individualized skincare. Based on your answers to our comprehensive skin quiz, our AI algorithm will formulate three multifunctional products designed to suit your needs, lifestyle, and skin type. This award-winning algorithm is based on data from more than 20 million skincare consumer reviews, 20,000 skincare ingredients, and 4,000 skin-related scientific papers. Take this quick and easy three-minute skin quiz today to discover your personalized solution to hyperpigmentation.

Once you take the skin quiz, you will be matched with one of more than 2,000 different product combinations to meet your unique skin needs. As a part of your personalized formula, you will receive a cleanser, moisturizer, and night cream.

Your cleanser will gently cleanse the skin and remove any and all oil that’s contributing to acne and PIH. This smart formulation also includes toning and exfoliating properties to cover all your skincare bases in one easy step. You will also receive a custom moisturizer based on your skin type. Finally, you will receive a night cream with the highly concentrated ingredients you need to lighten and brighten your areas of hyperpigmentation.

With PROVEN, it really is that easy -- just three simple products can transform your skin in no time!