Hyperpigmentation is harmless, but let’s face it: nobody’s happy about having a dark blemish on the skin. You can hide it with a good concealer (tip: apply a creamy concealer with a fine brush or cotton bud then set with powder) but you can prevent and treat it with good skin care.
Wear sunscreen
Sun exposure is one of the biggest causes of hyperpigmentation. In fact, dark spots will first appear in the areas that tend to get the least sun protection: the sides of your face, neck, chest, and the back of your hands. The solution: a sunscreen of at least SPF 15, which you need to wear every day, even when you’re indoors. Remember, UV rays pass through windows and clouds – so don’t just save sunscreen for sunny days at the beach!
Double up your protection
Use products that have additional sun protection or counteract sun damage, such as foundation with SPF, and use an umbrella and sunglasses whenever you need to head out when you go out when the sun is at its brightest.
Exfoliate regularly
When you slough off dead surface cells, you reveal healthy, natural and clear skin! If you have sensitive or mature skin, exfoliate about twice a week; if you have more oily skin, exfoliate thrice a week. Avoid very abrasive scrubs, especially if you have just had an acne breakout, or look for products that have calming and soothing ingredients. Aside from physical exfoliants, there are products with ingredients that break down dead surface cells: AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid, or Vitamin C.