Pigmentation is a frustrating yet very common condition, particularly amongst women. It results in dark pigments, freckles, spots or patches on the skin that results in an uneven skin tone. It can be exacerbated by hormones, diet, medication and UV exposure.

Source: Pinterest

Why it happens:

In order to address hyperpig­mentation, it is important to understand how pigment in the skin works. Melanin is what colours our skin and it is produced by an amino acid called tyrosine. Tyrosinase is an enzyme which stimulates the production of melanin resulting in additional skin pigment. High levels of oestrogen and progesterone are thought to stimulate the overproduction of melanin when the skin is exposed to the sun. This commonly occurs during pregnancy or when undertaking hormone-impacting treatments and medications, such as the birth control pill.

Unfortunately many of the conventional brightening treatments for hyper-pigmentation can lead to the skin being further damaged. Below we provide a four step, natural approach to combating melasma. To make it easy for you to follow this inside-out approach to tackling pigmentation we have compiled our Pigmentation Essentials Skincare Set. Click here to find out more about the set.

Step 1. Inhibit tyrosinase production

Taking steps to inhibit tyrosinase production helps to fade pigments and address the emerging issue of pigmentation. Our Turmeric Brightening Serum contains Rumex and Licorice, both shown to be effective in addressing hyperpigmentation. Licorice Root contains the active ingredient, glabridin that interrupts the enzymes that activate melanin production, making it a natural skin whitening agent. It prevents future hyper-pigmentation while improving existing dark spots on your skin. Rumex Extract has been clinically proven to treat hyper-pigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase enzymes.

Step 2. Protect the skin from damage

Protecting the skin from internal and external damage using natural skincare and an abundance of antioxidant-rich botanicals is an essential step to preventing pigmentation. Using an SPF50 daily will ensure your skin is protected from UV damage which can exacerbate pigmentation. Our Basking Beauty Natural Sunscreen is an SPF50 zinc-based sunscreen that keeps your skin hydrated and protected from damaging UVA and UVB sun rays. It is important to use an antioxidant-rich serum alongside your sunscreen. The antioxidants work like a "tag-team" alongside your sunscreen, reducing your skin's sensitivity to UV damage. Our No.3 Exotic Goddess Ageless Serum and Broccoli Blue Light Revitalise Serum are the perfect serums to layer under your sunscreen for additional protection. 

Step 3. Brighten the skin using natural skincare abundant in AHAs

Thirdly, brightening the skin with natural AHAs such as Lime, Strawberry and Apple Extracts can be a great way to tackle existing pigmentation.  Our No.1 Belle Frais Cleansing Milk and & Desert Lime Flawless Micro-Exfoliant contain brightening botanical extracts to lighten dark spots. Our Bloom of Youth Infusion Mask is also abundant in vitamin C rich botanicals such as Finger Lime Caviar and Bilberry Extract. Using the sheet mask 2-3 times weekly will give your brightening efforts an additional boost.

Step 4: Inside solution: Boost your antioxidant intake

 A diet rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids is a fantastic way to protect against damage that may trigger the overproduction of pigment in the skin.  Excellent plant-based sources include flaxseed oil, walnuts, hemp seeds, chia seeds, and avocado. Ensuring your diet contains an abundance of antioxidants can also ensure that your skin is being protected from damage associated with hormone imbalance. Edible Beauty Native Collagen Powder is a fantastic way to boost your antioxidant intake naturally.

Shop our Pigmentation Essential Set here.