What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a darkening of your skin due to an overproduction of melanin, also called Melanogenesis. The process of hyperpigmentation occurs when UV rays from the sun attack the keratinocyte of your skin. The keratinocyte then signals the melanocyte (cells) to form melanin (pigment).
What Causes Pigmentation to Change?
There can be a number reasons your skin pigmentation is changing, from stress or diet to inflammation or trauma from skin conditions like acne. Overexposure to the sun can also herald changes as well as some medications. Notably, hormones are a significant cause of hyperpigmentation. Melasma, which is more commonly known as the ‘pregnancy mask’, is a result of increased hormonal activity.
What to Look for – Signs of Pigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can appear in the form of freckles, a darkened stain on the skin, sun spots, age spots or dark circles under your eyes.
Our Top 5 Ingredients for Pigmented Skin
1. Gigawhite™
Gigawhite™ is a skin lightener and brightener that helps to remove age spots and concentrations of melanin in your skin.
The seven organically grown Swiss alpine plants which comprise GigawhiteTM are:
- Malva Sylvestris Extract or Mallow Flower
- Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract or Peppermint
- Primula Veris Extract or Cowslip / Eurasian Primrose
- Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract or Lady’s Mantle
- Veronica Officinalis Extract or Speedwell
- Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract or Lemon Balm
- Achillea Millefolium Extract or Yarrow
Together these ingredients also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits to sooth your skin and even out skin tone and darker patches. As with all personal care products, we recommend consulting your doctor to determine whether which ingredients are going to be suitable for use during your pregnancy as each individual is unique.
2. Natural Hydroquinone
A natural complex made of African potato and tara tree, hydroquinone offers you incredible pigment lightening and skin brightening while boosting collagen and infusing your skin with protective antioxidants. As a result, your dark spots are lightened and your complexion becomes more even. Plus, the solution slows the development of new hyperpigmentation by protecting your skin.
3. Stone Crop
Stone Crop can correct pigmentation and heal your skin. It acts as an anti-inflammatory while regenerating, lightening and moisturising your skin. Perfect to calm sensitive and rosacea-prone skin, it is gentle and hydrating.
4. Licorice Root
Licorice Root interrupts the enzymes that activate melanin production, making it a natural skin whitening agent. It prevents future hyperpigmentation while improving existing dark spots on your skin. Licorice Root is also a powerful anti-inflammatory, so it will help your skin by reducing any swelling or redness and aid the regeneration of your skin for a more balanced complexion.
5. Bearberry
Bearberry smooths and balances your skin tone. It has a lightening effect on your skin’s pigmentation, giving you a more even skin tone. Bearberry works to increase cell production of your skin and its antioxidant action fights free radicals which can cause premature aging.
Skin Care Products for Hyperpigmentation
We have harnessed these five powerful ingredients (and more!) in our Bright Skin Collection, specifically designed for hyperpigmentation. This targeted solution is clinically proven to improve uneven skin types by reducing melanin production and making dark spots fade.
The Bright Skin Collection is available in a Starter Set, so you can test how these powerful lightening products work with your skin to manage hyper-pigmentation. It also makes a perfect baby shower gift or grab one as your on-the-go travel kit. Single and full-sized products are also available across the entire Eminence Bright Skin Range.
Bright Skin Starter Set for Hyperpigmentation
• Bright Skin Cleanser (30ml tube)
• Bright Skin Moisturizer (with sunscreens) (15ml tube)
• Bright Skin Masque (15ml jar)
• Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster-Serum (15ml bottle)
Bright Skin Masque
Bright Skin Cleanser
Bright Skin Licorice Root Booster Serum
Bright Skin Moisturiser (equivalent SPF 30)
If you want more help in establishing a skin care routine to manage your hyperpigmentation, visit one of our Spa Partners. Relax while you have your skin professionally assessed and matched with the correct Eminence Organic skin care products.
If you have hyperpigmentation, share with us your favourite Eminence Organic product and the results you have experienced using it.