The sun is great for your skin in many ways: it pumps it full of vitamin D, gives you a healthy glow and generates feel-good hormones. However, it’s no secret the sun can also be hugely dangerous. Overexposure to harmful UV rays can show up in the form of hyperpigmentation.
Though pigmentation from the sun in the form of freckles is now rightfully embraced, the non-uniform appearance of hyperpigmentation can be a source of insecurity for many.
We hear from leading dermatologists and celebrity facialists on how to treat and prevent hyperpigmentation from the sun.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Although sun exposure is hyperpigmentation’s leading catalyst, there are other factors that can contribute to the dark spots. “Hyperpigmentation results from overactive pigment cells and an excess of melanin in the skin,” says Sharon Hilditch MBE FCGI, CEO and founder of Crystal Clear Skincare, and facialist to Madonna, Nicole Scherzinger and Jude Law.
How to prevent hyperpigmentation
If you’re on holiday or simply outside for most of the day, SPF is the cheapest and easiest way to prevent permanent dark spots. “To prevent hyperpigmentation, wear a high-factor medical-grade SPF and limit your exposure to the sun,” says winner of the BBC’s The Apprentice, Dr Leah Totton, who recommends SkinCeuticals.
SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial UV Defense SPF50 Sunscreen Protection 30ml, £36, Look Fantastic
How to reverse hyperpigmentation
There are a number of over-the-counter products that are dermatologist-approved, that can assist in treating hyperpigmentation. From professional-grade formulas such as Arbutin to suppress hyperpigmentation production, to innovative cosmetic treatments like laser and microdermabrasion; if you already have hyperpigmentation, there are effective ways to fade the dark patches safely.
“Ingredients like bearberry plant, mulberry root, Saxifraga sarmentosa and Scutellaria baicalensis extract tackle the deepest of pigmentation marks, age spots and sun damage,” says Hilditch. “The Crystal Clear Skin Brightening Complex is great as it treats hyperpigmentation at home with no harsh chemicals.”
Facetheory Blemicalm Azelaic Acid 15% Clarifying Serum – 30ml, £26
What your skincare routine should look like
Alongside cleansing, moisturising and following with SPF50 every morning, “Retinol or vitamin C are two good ingredients to incorporate into your skincare,” says skincare expert Amish Patel. “However, in doing their job of brightening and stimulating new cell turnover, you should still protect your face from the sun.” Patel recommends reducing retinol usage in the summer months and not having laser treatments on exposed skin when the weather is warm.
To prevent further pigmentation developing, your cleanse should always be followed with an antioxidant-infused serum. “Antioxidant protection to combat free-radical damage will help tighten and firm the skin,” says Marylebone clinician, Dr Joney De Souza.
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ZO Skin Health Brightalive – 50ml, £89 (was £143.55), Reliable Medicare