Hyperpigmentation On Indian Skin: All You Need To Know

Hyper-pigmentation is what comes after acne and pimples. When we talk about hyper-pigmentation, think dark spots caused by the sun or left behind by pimples and patches of discoloration. What’s more, Indian skin is more susceptible to hyper-pigmentation! But fikar not! Here’s all you need to know about hyperpigmentation on Indian skin!

Treating Hyperpigmentation On Indian Skin

Hyper-pigmentation can be hard to recover from. It can be cured using plenty of products, tested ingredients, and in-clinic procedures!

According to the Fitzpatrick scale, developed by Thomas B. Fitzpatrick to assess how different skin types respond to ultraviolet (UV) light. Type IV to VI (people on the browner side of things) have a high risk of hyper-pigmentation and scarring.

What causes hyperpigmentation?

“An excessive production of melanin in the skin causes Hyper-pigmentation (dark spots). Asian skin tends to have more melanin than Caucasian skin. As a result, Indian skin is more prone to skin discoloration.” says dermatologist Dr. Geetika Mittal Gupta of ISAAC Luxe.

Not all hyper-pigmentation is the same. So the treatments vary a bit. Furthermore, there are two types of pigmentation: first is the pigmentation that happens as a result of dryness, and exposure to the sun. Second is the hyper-pigmentation which happens in blue or grey patches better known as melasma.

Can it be prevented?

The right skincare can prevent everything! Prevention of hyperpigmentation will require regular and persistent skincare. You can start by adding double cleansing to your skincare regime.

A double cleanse is necessary after a long day of sunscreen reapplication, makeup, sweat, and pollution. It ensures a clean surface, clear of pore-clogging dirt. Moreover, it gives you a fresh base to work into your treatments and serums too.  Also, this doesn’t have to be an expensive step. Cheap Indian drugstore alternatives are also available!

Ingredients that help battle hyperpigmentation

Buying skincare stuff can be a load on your wallet! But the best way to save money and get effective results is to shop smartly. Here’s a list of ingredients that help in curing hyperpigmentation. Look for products having these ingredients and you are good to go!

a) Kojic acid

Kojic acid can penetrate the skin’s layer and inhibit the production of melanin. Despite being called an ‘acid’, it’s safe to use if done properly. Also, a lot of products that are targeted to lighten sun damage, age spots, and scars have kojic acid in them. It has an overall brightening effect. So this makes it a go-to brightening ingredient when it comes to fading dark marks.

b) Vitamin C

It is super trendy nowadays! You can find special serums and also moisturizers containing vitamin C. It helps in clarity, smoothness, brightness, and overall skin health. Moreover, studies have shown its ability to reduce melanin production. So it helps to fade acne marks.

However, it’s a tricky ingredient. It can be unstable and oxidizes easily. Also, it is sensitive to heat and sun rays. Not just the color but the formulation itself changes. And unstable vitamin C could cause more harm than help! So keep it in a cool, dark place. This will ensure the product lasts longer at its optimal state. Also, DO NOT let the dropper come in contact with the skin. This can cause the product to go bad easily!

c) Hydroquinone

This is a more hardcore chemical to get rid of discoloration. It works as a skin-bleaching agent. It interrupts the production of melanin by blocking the enzyme tyrosine. Thus resulting in skin lightening. Hydroquinone use can cause dryness, redness, and itching. So use a good moisturizer and SPF alongside. However, it shouldn’t be used without the supervision of a dermatologist.

d) Arbutin

Arbutine is a relatively safer, water-soluble, and effective derivative of hydroquinone. It provides similar skin brightening benefits without the risky nature of hydroquinone.

In-clinic treatments for hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation, whether it is melasma or other kinds of discoloration, can be corrected. It can be cured with a combination of clinical procedures and facials. Get your appointment with a good dermatologist. Proceed after careful consultation only! Here’s an overview of all the possible treatments to help you cure hyperpigmentation!

Laser toning – It uses non-abrasive lasers. When they hit your skin, they create a ‘controlled thermal injury. Thus triggering a natural response in the body to produce more collagen and elastin.

Q-switch laser – It works effectively in treating stubborn patches of pigmentation. The pigments absorb the laser energy. It breaks off into smaller fragments and is naturally cleared away by the body and skin. Offered at: Kaya Skin Clinic (Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata)

Microdermabrasion – This is an exfoliating treatment helping on reducing skin discoloration. It’s performed by introducing tiny particles that help improve the appearance of skin. It is a minimally invasive treatment. Also, it can renew your skin’s overall tone and texture.

Chemical peels – Chemical peels with azelaic acid help correct brown spots and pigmentation. Different acid solutions are applied to the face to exfoliate the upper layer of your skin. Chemical peels are a skin-resurfacing procedure. They require very particular after-care and downtime. So, they should be done with proper consideration and guidance by a professional.

It’s best to leave the treatments to professionals if your skin is sensitive and irritated. Trust their training.

Home remedies and DIYs are always an option!

A popular one is a combination of potato skin and tomato juice. This may work on areas like the neck, elbows, and knees to get rid of skin discoloration. However, they can be hit or miss and can also take time to show results. Due to the ratios and perfect chemical combinations, DIYS can be a problem Thus, dermatologically tested products and treatments have proven to be effective in treating hyperpigmentation on Indian skin.

Suggestions for maintaining good skin

• Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water. This helps in detoxifying the body and hydrates the skin. Try drinking warm water in the morning. This helps your body to get started for the day!
• Keep a check on tea/coffee intake. An excess of these can dehydrate your body and skin! Minimize your tea and coffee intake to 1-2 cups a day. also, decrease the sugar quantity! you can replace sugar with jaggery.
• Take coconut water daily. It replenishes the skin and fights hyperpigmentation. Coconut water is a natural hydrator! it’s filled with vitamins and minerals. A coconut a day will surely keep your skin healthy!
• Add antioxidant Vit.C and Vit.B complex supplements to your diet. You can eat these tablets with breakfast. however, start taking the medications only after consulting with a doctor. also, check with what foods are you combining these tablets. There are some foods that do not allow them to work efficiently. So always consult an expert!
• Use a homemade pack with curd, lemon juice, tamarind paste, papaya pulp, and pineapple juice. It helps to lighten the complexion and thus reduce visible hyperpigmentation. However, you need to be regular in it. Also, protect your skin from further damage by applying sunscreens and moisturizers.

Lastly, hyperpigmentation is a common problem in India. Many tend to neglect it even though treatments are available. Indian women tend to keep their needs secondary to those of the family! And we think it’s time to change, isn’t it? So encourage them to take steps for their skin and health! It is important to be aware of dermatological issues and resolve them. After all, good skin never fails in making one feel good!

Do share the article with your loved ones! Let them know about the treatments available for hyperpigmentation.

Till then, Stay healthy, stay beautiful!