Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that causes dark or discolored skin due to increased melanin production. Hyperpigmentation can be the result of sun exposure, pregnancy hormones, injury or inflammation, or aging. Decreasing hyperpigmentation can be done through topical treatments like skincare as well as other facial therapies. Not all hyperpigmentation can be removed or reduced, which is why covering or concealing it is a better option for some redheads. First, before we dig in , here are some common forms of hyperpigmentation:
- Freckles: Freckles are very common in redheads, and are spots caused by melanin production in the skin. Freckles come out in the sun because your body produces more melanin. Freckles are not a form of sun damage nor are they dangerous.
- Sunspots: Sunspots are extremely common, especially in adults over 40. Sunspots are caused by excess exposure to the sun. In general, sunspots are not dangerous, but some skin cancer may appear as a sunspot.
- Melasma: Melasma is a common skin problem that is characterized by dark discolored patches on the skin. These spots may often look like freckles, but unlike freckles, melasma can go away. Melasma is most common in women who are pregnant.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: This type of pigmentation is what occurs when your body produces extra melanin after being irritated or injured. This can be due to something like a rash, razor burn, allergic reaction, or eczema. You may notice the skin is slightly darker after this type of irritation.
At How to be a Redhead, we’re always preaching about how to accept and embrace your freckles, but sometimes hyperpigmentation is deeper and darker than a normal freckle. Sunspots and melasma are usually dark, larger-than-normal spots and you may desire to cover them up.
How to decrease hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can be decreased with the use of skin care products like retinoids, azelaic acid, tretinoin, and chemical exfoliants. These products can help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation over time, but may not remove it completely. Professional treatments like laser therapy, microdermabrasion or chemical peels are the fastest way to remove or reduce hyperpigmentation but may be costly, uncomfortable, or irritating to the skin.
You can decrease your risk of hyperpigmentation by reducing sun exposure, using skincare that helps you avoid breakouts and irritation, and maintaining a healthy skin barrier. Hyperpigmentation is often genetic, so you may not be able to avoid it altogether, but these steps will help reduce your risk.
How to cover hyperpigmentation
If you have hyperpigmentation and want to cover it, you can try to neutralize the coloring with orange or peach color-correcting concealers under your foundation.
First, start with a clean and moisturized face. Apply a small amount of peach or orange color corrector to the hyperpigmented areas using a makeup brush or your fingertip. Gently blend the corrector until it’s seamlessly blended into your skin.
After correcting, apply your regular foundation or concealer over the corrected areas, ensuring an even application. Blend the foundation or concealer well to achieve a natural look. You can also opt for more full-coverage foundations and concealers.
Finish your makeup routine with setting powder to set the products in place. Remember to blend carefully for a smooth and natural appearance, and adjust the amount of product based on your skin’s needs.
Hyperpigmentation is nothing to be ashamed of, and there’s nothing wrong with letting the world see it. If you do choose to cover it, cover it because you want to, not because you think you need to. Your skin is beautiful no matter what.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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READ: Pigmentation 101: Why it Happens and How Redheads Can Treat It
READ: Dark Spots Can Get Worse During The Winter Months: How Redheads Can Stop It
