hyperpigmentation
hyperpigmentation is easily one of the most frustrating issues for those afflicted with pigmented scars, melasma, or unintended ultraviolet exposure. there are three basic types of unwanted pigmentation:
- ultraviolet (UV)-induced hyperpigmentation occurs following overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, and fluorescent or ambient lighting. there are typically diffuse spots evenly distributed on the face.
- hormonally-induced hyperpigmentation occurs secondary to hormonal fluctuations, including pregnancy, oral contraceptives, thyroid dysfunction, and menopause, and is found in large patches located on the jawline, upper lip, cheeks, and forehead.
- post-inflammatory induced hyperpigmentation occurs following an injury to the epidermis, such as a cut or burn, and looks like a dark area at the site of trauma.
when pigmentation is triggered, a cycle is created which results in the deposition of pigment on the skin. treatment requires intervention at each step of the cycle to break the path to pigment. for more about hyperpigmentation, visit our journal entry: the cycle of hyperpigmentation.
we recommend the following régime for skin with areas of hyperpigmentation:
products:
lotus flower & rosewater toner
bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
SPF
step 1: cleanse
product: oatmeal cleansing milk
when to do it: twice daily
how to do it: apply a few pumps of the cleanser to face and neck. massage over your face and neck for one minute. rinse with lukewarm water and pat skin dry.
step 2: tone
product: lotus flower & rosewater toner
when to do it: twice daily and as needed
how to do it: after cleansing, pat face dry then apply toner to a cotton pad and gently smooth over your face. allow to absorb. during the day, spritz onto skin as desired.
also useful as a gentle makeup remover.
step 3: serum
product: jasmine serum
when to do it: twice daily
how to do it: apply a pea-sized amount onto your fingertips and massage onto damp skin. allow to be absorbed fully prior to layering on the next moisturizer.
step 4: crème
product: lotus & lychee facial crème
when to do it: twice daily
how to do it: apply a small amount to fingertips and massage gently over face and neck. use sparingly – a little bit goes a long way with this beauty.
step 5: oil
product: bakuchiol & pomegranate facial oil
when to do it: twice daily
how to do it: apply 3-4 drops of oil to dry or damp skin. massage until fully absorbed.
step 6: exfoliation & masque
product: blue clay clarifying masque
when to do it: twice weekly
how to do it: after cleansing, combine 5 grams (about a teaspoon) of the masque with a small amount of water, milk, yogurt, or honey. mix and apply to clean skin with a soft, dry brush. leave for 10-15 minutes, but don’t allow it to completely dry. massage into skin with wet fingertips and allow the clay to gently exfoliate the skin. remove the residue with a warm, wet cloth.
step 7: SPF
product: (not yet)
when to do it: every morning, rain or shine
how to do it: sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is easily the most important step in your skincare regime, especially when dealing with unwanted pigmentation. apply to your entire face and neck - and don't forget your ears.