5 Underrated Ingredients to Fix Hyperpigmentation, Dark Spots, and Discoloration

Summer is the time for fun in the sun and laughter but it’s also when the most skin damage can occur.

Discoloration and Hyperpigmentation can be tough to deal with.

But the truth is, almost everyone will deal with it at some point in life.

And while things like physical exfoliating ingredients can help, they may be too tough on the skin.

AHA and BHA are great chemical exfoliating ingredients that can also help remove hyperpigmentation but may take a while.

So here are the causes of discoloration and hyperpigmentation, and 5 underrated Ingredients that can help! 

What is Hyperpigmentation or Discoloration 

Hyperpigmentation is areas of dark spots or patches on the skin.

Along the same line, discoloration is areas that are pigmented differently due to internal or environmental factors.

Why Does Hyperpigmentation Occur

There are three primary reasons for discoloration and hyperpigmentation to occur.

One main cause is the UV rays from the sun, which is why sunscreen is so vital.

Inflammation is another main cause of hyperpigmentation and discoloration of the skin.

Finally, a dry, dehydrated skin barrier can cause discoloration and hyperpigmentation, as lack of moisture triggers the skin cells to darken.

5 Treatments for Hyperpigmentation and Discoloration

And without further ado!

1. Tranexamic Acid

This is a newer ingredient that can be found in some serums. It is a gentle ingredient with low irritation.

It is a synthetic amino acid that can aid in wound healing, increases hydration, and supports collagen production.

It is a depigmentation ingredient, that controls melanin. Melanin is what gives sour skin its color, but too much leads to dark spots.

2. Alpha Arbutin (arbutin)

This is often mixed with vitamin C, as vitamin c is also a skin-brightening ingredient.

It inhibits melanin production from the core, stalling and preventing it.

3. Mandelic Acid

This is an almond-derived ingredient, but it is a form of AHA that does not irritate because it has a high molecular weight.

There are some gentle exfoliating aspects but it will be softer than other AHA.

It can even help clear out pores and decongest skin!

4. Azelaic Acid

This is an ingredient that reduces redness, evening our complexion, and reduces discoloration.

It is a natural ingredient found in our skin but can also be derived from barley and raw.

Azelaic acid also has antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent bacteria on the skin.

Azelaic also inhibits melanin production, similar to many other ingredients.

5. Alternatives to Vitamin C

Vitamin c does not have to come in L ascorbic acid. While ascorbic acid is the most studied, helping to prevent and reduce hyperpigmentation, it can be unstable as a product and can be sensitizing.

Other ingredients have vitamin C, such as plum, yuzu, tangerine, and sea buckthorn.

Plum and yuzu have naturally high amounts of vitamin c that is gentle and may brighten your skin, but will definitely hydrate.

Tangerine extracts, as well as being high in vitamin c, can help reduce acne marks and redness greatly

Sea buckthorn, known as a miracle berry, is rich in vitamin C, E, K, and healthy omega fatty acids, helping to brighten and hydrate.

Tips for Preventing Hyperpigmentation and Discoloration

Here are some quick tips to prevent discoloration and hyperpigmentation from occurring in the first place!

1. Use Sunscreen

Using sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater, reapplying as needed, and trying to avoid the sun from 10 am to 4 pm is the best preventative measure you can take.

2. Use These Products Preventively 

Many of these ingredients work by preventing the overproduction of melanin in the first place, so use them to keep up a bright and even complexion.

3. Do Not Pick at Face

Popping pimples, touching the face, or poking at acne can make acne scars and dark spots much more likely.

4. Hydrate Well and Moisturize

Lack of moisture and hydration can not only cause outbreaks but dark spots as well.

Make sure you are using a good moisturizer with ingredients that support the skin!

The Takeaway 

Everyone may deal with discoloration and hyperpigmentation, but there are ways to help repair the skin and prevent it.

Use these ingredients to help restore and repair the skin when hyperpigmentation occurs!

They can even be used as a prevention method, stopping dark spots from forming in the first place.

Remember, use sunscreen, resist the urge to pick at your spots, and hydrate properly.

Having a solid yet simple skincare routine will be much better than having an overly complicated 12-step ritual.

Skincare is a choice, not a chore. Make skincare about progress, and not perfection, and enjoy every step of the way!