Hyperpigmentation of the Face: Understanding the Causes and How to Treat It

Hyperpigmentation is a prevalent skin concern affecting individuals of various ages and skin types. Understanding the root causes of hyperpigmentation is essential in tailoring appropriate solutions, and our expert skincare team at Charette Cosmetics is committed to providing valuable insights to help you regain your skin's natural tone and radiance. 

Ahead, we delve into the underlying causes of hyperpigmentation and explore effective treatment options that work for all skin types, so you can achieve a brighter, more even complexion.

The Common Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation on the face is a common skin condition characterized by the darkening of certain areas of skin. This occurs due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for giving color to the skin. There are many factors that can cause hyperpigmentation like sun exposure, hormones and inflammation.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is one of the primary factors responsible for facial hyperpigmentation. When the skin is exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, it triggers an increase in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin. Melanin acts as a natural defense mechanism, absorbing and dissipating UV radiation to protect the skin from damage. 

Excessive sun exposure can lead to an overproduction of melanin in certain areas, resulting in the formation of sunspots or age spots particularly on the cheeks, forehead and nose. 

Hormones Fluctuations

Hormonal fluctuations can also significantly impact the development of hyperpigmentation, especially conditions like melasma. Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that is influenced by increased hormone levels and often appears on the face during pregnancy or while using birth control. 

Melasma often presents as symmetrical and well-defined patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. While all skin tones can experience melasma, it tends to be more common in women with darker skin types.

Inflammation

Acne, eczema, psoriasis, or any other skin condition, can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Inflammatory responses cause damage to the skin's structures, leading to an increased production of melanin as part of the natural healing process. 

The excess melanin is then deposited in the affected areas, resulting in darkened spots that persist long after the initial inflammation has subsided. PIH can occur in individuals of all skin types, but it is more prevalent in people with darker skin tones. Inflammation is the underlying cause of hyperpigmentation. Popping a pimple or cyst leads to the development of inflammation, which subsequently results in the formation of a darkened area on your skin. While the original blemish may disappear over time, the hyperpigmented mark tends to persist.

How to Treat Hyperpigmentation on the Face

Effectively treating hyperpigmentation requires a deep understanding of the causes, so your treatment plan yields optimal results without worsening the condition. At Charette Cosmetics, easing the look of hyperpigmentation is one of our specialties and we have clients from around the world who come to us for dramatic results.

Hyperpigmentation can be treated through a variety of methods, each targeting different types and severity of pigmentation. The three main treatment options for hyperpigmentation are topical treatments, chemical peels and laser therapy. 

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against mild to moderate hyperpigmentation. These products contain active ingredients that work to lighten dark spots and even out the skin’s tone. Common ingredients in topical treatments include:

• Hydroquinone - A skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production, effectively reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
• Retinoids - Derivatives of vitamin A that promote cell turnover, helping to fade dark spots and improve skin texture.
• Vitamin C - An antioxidant that brightens the skin and protects it from further damage caused by UV exposure.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to the skin, which exfoliates the top layers, leading to the shedding of damaged and hyperpigmented skin cells. This process stimulates the production of new, healthier skin cells, resulting in a more even complexion and less discoloration. Chemical peels vary in strength depending on the severity of the hyperpigmentation. Usually, a series of chemical peels must be used to achieve a lightening effect.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy utilizes focused beams of light to target melanin in the skin, breaking down excess pigment and promoting the skin's natural healing response. This method is highly effective for treating various types of hyperpigmentation, including sunspots and melasma.

 

Our Top Picks for Products for Hyperpigmentation of Face

At Charette Cosmetics, we understand the importance of addressing hyperpigmentation effectively. Our carefully curated selection of products is formulated to target dark spots, uneven skin tone, and various types of facial hyperpigmentation. Here are our top picks:

Brighten + Enlighten Prescription Pads 

These medical strength prescription pads are formulated to correct visible discoloration and uneven skin tone. With consistent use, Brighten + Enlighten will visibly brighten and promote an even skin tone, help reduce visible signs of discoloration and unwanted pigmentation, as well as protect against damaging free radicals.

MelanX Level II Chemical Peel

Our signature Level II MelanX Chemical Peel is a complete skin-lightening, medical-grade system designed to help penetrate deep into the skin. The chemical peel technique speeds up the body’s natural process of sloughing off dead skin cells to reveal fresh, new skin. 

Results from MelanX are amazing and improve the look of dark spots, acne scars, sun spots, hyperpigmentation, melasma and fine lines and wrinkles. For optimal results, this at-home-use kit comes with a 25-day post-care skincare regimen that includes our proprietary bleaching (brightening) cream, retinol serum, soothing balm and facial cleanser.

Pigmentation Pack

For an effective skincare routine that focuses on easing pigmentation concerns, the Pigmentation Pack created by Charette Cosmetics is an ideal choice for hyperpigmentation of face. It can be used as part of your daytime and nighttime regimen. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to bed, these products work together naturally to give you optimal benefits that result in a brighter, more even complexion and renewed confidence with an all-in-one skincare solution.

This pack includes: 

Illuminate + Purify Exfoliating Cleanser

Activate + Tone Antioxidant Mist

Nourish + Soften Moisturizer

Perfect + Preserve Sheer SPF 50

Brighten + Enlighten Prescription Pads

Rejuvenate + Reverse Retinol Serum

Tips For Preventing Hyperpigmentation 

Preventing hyperpigmentation involves adopting a proactive skincare routine and making lifestyle choices that protect the skin from potential triggers. These tried-and-true tips can help prevent hyperpigmentation from forming or worsening:

• Use sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (UVA and UVB) with at least SPF 30 to prevent sun-induced hyperpigmentation. 
• In addition to using sunscreen, consider wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing when spending extended periods in the sun.
• Harsh skincare products and irritants can trigger inflammation, leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so opt for gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers and avoid scrubbing delicate facial skin.
  
• Antioxidants, such as vitamin C and green tea extracts, can help protect the skin from environmental damage and may reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.
  
• Gentle exfoliation can aid in the removal of dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, reducing the likelihood of hyperpigmentation. 
• Avoid picking or squeezing acne lesions because that can lead to increased inflammation and worsen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 
  
  

Why Choose Charette Cosmetics For Hyperpigmentation of Face 

Charette Cosmetics brings a whole new approach to the world of cosmetic treatments, including products designed to ease hyperpigmentation concerns. Founded by Paul Charette, a medical aesthetician and cosmetic practitioner, Paul's extensive aesthetic education, unparalleled techniques, and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of Charette Cosmetics. 

Our medical-grade skincare products work to protect and treat your skin, revealing the most beautiful version of yourself. For your convenience, we offer Shop Pay and Google Pay. Shop our lineup of products online or connect with us on socials to see amazing skin transformations from real customers.