Like a lunch date that’s overstayed their welcome, scars and hyperpigmentation can linger, leading to frustration and sometimes a dip in self-confidence. But fear not! While these skincare woes can stick around, there are effective strategies to help you achieve bright, even skin once again.
Types of Hyperpigmentation
Understanding the different types of hyperpigmentation is the first step in tackling them:
- Melasma: Often triggered by hormonal changes, melasma is a skin condition that can develop during pregnancy. It typically affects the stomach and face but can appear anywhere on the body.
- Sunspots: Also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, these are linked to long-term sun exposure. They usually appear as patches on sun-exposed areas like the hands and face.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: This occurs after a skin injury or inflammation, such as acne or ingrown hairs, leading to darkened areas on the skin.
What Is the Difference Between Scarring and Pigmentation?
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, often mistaken for acne scarring, is common in blemish-prone skin. These red marks appear after acne has healed and are caused by increased pigment production during skin healing. They typically fade over time.
In contrast, acne scarring results from excess collagen due to severe acne, leading to raised, bumpy, or pit-like scars. This type of scarring is more challenging to treat and may require professional intervention.
Certain skin types and tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation due to higher melanin levels. When trauma occurs, melanin cells produce more pigment to protect the skin.
The good news? There are various solutions for treating acne scars and pigmentation, from professional treatments to at-home remedies.
How to Tackle Scarring and Pigmentation
Here are four effective ways to reduce pigmentation and acne scars:
- Dermal Fillers: Not just for enhancing features, fillers can temporarily smooth acne scars. Indented scars respond well to this treatment, which needs regular maintenance.
- Radiofrequency with Microneedling: This combination uses radio waves and microneedles to improve skin texture, making scars appear smaller and lighter.
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): AHAs like glycolic, lactic, and citric acids help fade pigmentation and smooth skin texture by promoting cell turnover.
- Vitamin C: A stable vitamin C solution can protect against environmental damage, boost collagen, and reduce dark spots.
- Retinol: Known for anti-ageing, retinol also clears pores and reduces scars by boosting collagen and elastin production.
Final Tips for Scarring and Pigmentation
Prevention is key! Here are some tips to avoid scars and pigmentation:
- Maintain a consistent skincare routine.
- Avoid picking at spots, ingrown hairs, or razor bumps.
- Always apply SPF30+ UVA and UVB protection and limit sun exposure.
Meet Folli Oil
Folli Oil is a natural, cruelty-free, vegan skincare range that truly works. Using the finest, ethically sourced, sustainable plant-based ingredients, our products are handcrafted in small batches at our studio in the beautiful Cotswolds. We test on willing humans, not animals, and our packaging is recyclable. Experience the Folli Oil difference and shop now.