Understanding Hyperpigmentation: How It Forms and How to Treat It
When clients ask me about discoloration or dark spots, they often use the term "hyperpigmentation." But what exactly is it, and why does it happen?
In this blog post, we’ll cover how pigmentation forms in the skin, what triggers it, and how you can effectively treat and manage it using both lifestyle practices and skincare products.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
For the purposes of this article, we’ll use the term "hyperpigmentation" to include several types of visible pigmentation on the skin:
Freckles
Sun spots (also called solar lentigines)
Melasma
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the dark marks left behind after a breakout or injury)
How Does Pigment Form in the Skin?
Pigment, or melanin, is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis (the basal layer). Melanin acts as the skin's natural defense system by absorbing UV rays and neutralizing free radicals.
Inside each melanocyte are organelles called melanosomes, where melanin is created through a process known as melanogenesis. One of the key enzymes in this process is tyrosinase, a copper-containing enzyme that plays a central role in controlling pigment production. It works alongside tyrosinase-related proteins TRP-1 and TRP-2.
There are two main types of melanin:
Eumelanin: A brown to black pigment
Pheomelanin: A yellow to reddish pigment
The type and amount of melanin produced in your skin depends on both genetics and environmental factors.
What Triggers Melanin Production?
Melanin production can increase in response to several external and internal factors:
UV exposure (this is the most common)
Hormonal changes
Pregnancy
Medications
Physical injuries to the skin (cuts, burns, acne)
Stress
Skin injuries such as a burn or cut
The Role of Antioxidants in Managing Pigmentation
Antioxidants are essential in helping to reduce excess pigmentation. Here’s how they help:
They suppress melanogenesis by interfering with the copper ion in tyrosinase, reducing its ability to stimulate pigment production.
They scavenge free radicals that trigger melanin production, acting as a defense against environmental stressors.
They prevent oxidative stress, which contributes to both pigmentation and aging.
Best Practices to Prevent and Treat Hyperpigmentation
Use a daily antioxidant-rich serum that targets tyrosinase activity and helps brighten the skin.
Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, like colorful fruits and vegetables, to help protect your skin from the inside out.
Protect your skin from the sun with SPF daily (even on cloudy days or indoors).
Manage stress with practices like breathwork, meditation, or movement to reduce cortisol levels and inflammation.
Key Ingredients to Look For in Brightening Serums
Brightening serums are always antioxidant-based. Some of the most effective ingredients include:
Vitamin C
Resveratrol
Retinol
Kojic Acid
Bearberry
Arbutin
Licorice Root
Niacinamide
My Product Recommendation
If you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation and looking for an effective brightening product, I recommend Marini Skin Solutions C-Esta Serum. It combines a stable form of vitamin C with other powerful antioxidants to help even out skin tone, improve texture, and support collagen production.
Remember, consistency is key. Brightening takes time, but with a targeted regimen, sun protection, and the right products, you can absolutely see results. If you’re not sure where to start or want guidance for your unique skin, I’d love to help you customize a plan during your next facial appointment.
