Freckles not included. We’re talking darker brown patches on the skin (known as ‘pigmentation’) predominantly caused by the sunshine. Perhaps you’ve noticed them cropping up and are curious to know why, or you do know why they’re there and are looking for tips on prevention. Since it’s good to know the cause – and make sure your skin is properly nurtured – allow us to dabble in science, just a little, while we explain everything.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 What actually is it?
Skin pigmentation – or hyperpigmentation as it’s properly known – is a harmless but visible condition where patches of the skin become darker in colour. This is caused by an excess of melanin (the brown pigment within our skin). You’ll usually spot them on the hands, face and shoulders – where the sun visits most.
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2 And the cause?
Pigmentation can appear over time, or out of the blue, for a number of reasons. It’s usually the result of serious overexposure to UVA rays from the sun, though hormonal and lifestyle factors play a part too. Acne can leave behind dark scars on the skin, while pregnancy and birth control can trigger an overpoduction melanin due to hormal changes.
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3 Can I prevent it?
Yup, you probably guessed it – sunscreen (when is this not the answer?). Freckles, age spots and darker skin patches are all intensified when exposed to the sun. How’s that? The melanin in your skin absorbs energy from the sun’s UV rays, to protect from the exposure. That’s why we tan, but it’s also why our spots darken. Block UVA and UVB rays with sunscreen.
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4 How do I treat it?
More science. We’ve got around 1.6 trillion skin cells in our body, each live for around three weeks before dropping off and making space for a new cell. A chemical peel speeds this process up – regenerating cells on demand. Glycolic acid peels are a popular choice for treating epidermal hyperpigmentation (on the surface) – there’s no downtime needed after, so you can do this one on your lunch break.
That skin of ours, eh? With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
What causes skin pigmentation to appear on your body?
Skin pigmentation often appears due to serious overexposure to UVA rays from the sun. Hormonal changes, such as those from pregnancy or birth control, and acne scars can also trigger this condition by increasing melanin production.
Where do you usually see pigmentation patches on your skin?
You typically notice pigmentation patches on the hands, face and shoulders. These areas are the most exposed to sunlight, which is the primary cause of hyperpigmentation on your skin.
How can you prevent pigmentation from developing or getting worse?
Applying sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays can help prevent pigmentation from forming or darkening. Sun exposure activates melanin in the skin, causing freckles, age spots and darker patches to intensify.
What treatments help reduce hyperpigmentation on your skin?
A chemical peel, such as a glycolic acid peel, can speed up the regeneration of your skin cells and treat surface hyperpigmentation. This treatment has no downtime, so you can fit it in even during a lunch break.
How many skin cells do you have and how long do they live?
An average person has around 1.6 trillion skin cells in their body, and each skin cell lives for about three weeks. Old cells shed naturally, making way for new, healthy skin over time.