They say you should ‘love the skin you’re in’, but some conditions are really sent to test this self-love philosophy. Take for example hyperpigmentation, which can be stubborn, frustrating, and linger on the skin for years.
Hyperpigmentation is a condition where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. While genetics and sun exposure are the most well-known culprits, some everyday habits can trigger irritation, which leads to PIH (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
From harsh DIY scrubs to skipping SPF indoors, Dr Kevita Bains, Clinical Lead Aesthetician at Revive Clinic, breaks down seven habits that worsen hyperpigmentation..
Dr Kevita Bains, Clinical Lead Aesthetician at Revive Clinic
Picking spots
Most people find it tempting to squeeze spots or pick at acne scabs. However, each time you do this, you risk damaging the surrounding skin and triggering post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Depending on the depth, these dark marks can linger long after the breakout has healed.
The more you pick at these spots, they can accumulate and lead to uneven skin tone or texture. Instead of taking matters into your own hands, it’s best to visit a doctor or dermatologist, where your skin can be safely assessed and treated professionally to prevent scarring or worsening pigmentation. After all, the five seconds of satisfaction won’t be worth months of trying to treat these dark spots.
Forgetting SPF indoors
Contrary to popular belief, sunscreen is not only for outdoor use. In reality, we’re exposed to UV radiation on a daily basis, even just by sitting too close to windows or when driving, as these harmful rays can easily penetrate through glass. This constant exposure can gradually deepen dark spots, slowing down the skin’s healing process and contributing to an aged appearance.
Healthy skin starts at the foundation, so don’t forget to apply your broad-spectrum mineral SP50 every morning and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Remember, sunscreen is essentially one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent hyperpigmentation from worsening and keep your skin protected.
Using harsh scrubs
Using physical exfoliants tends to feel satisfying, due to misinformation that scrubbing aggressively achieves clearer skin. However, over-exfoliating with coarse scrubs is one of the fastest ways to compromise the skin barrier. This is because they create tiny micro-tears to the skin’s surface, which triggers inflammation and aggravates reactive melanocytes, responsible for causing hyperpigmentation. Instead, opt for gentle chemical exfoliants, like 5% mandelic acid or 5% lactic acid, to renew rough and uneven skin texture. To boost collagen production, you can also explore in-clinic treatments like microneedling, which creates tiny microchannels to encourage healthy cell turnover, without inducing trauma.
Lack of hydration
Dry skin is more vulnerable to pigmentation changes as a compromised barrier makes it easier for irritants to penetrate the skin, which can trigger an inflammatory response. Due to this, dehydrated skin often feels more sensitive and tends to look noticeably dull and uneven. This is why drinking plenty of water is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to keep your skin calm. Always have a moisturiser with ceramides and peptides at hand to replenish and lock in moisture on the go.
For in-clinic treatments, I recommend a Hydrafacial as it gently exfoliates while infusing lost hydration, for healthy cell turnover that reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation. This procedure is customisable to address your specific skin concerns and helps prevent dark spots, before they appear and become too stubborn to fade quickly.
Going to bed without cleansing properly
When you don’t cleanse properly every night, you’re leaving behind makeup, sunscreen, and sweat overnight. This can also include dirt and debris accumulated throughout the day. When this happens, it can clog pores and lead to breakouts, one of the main triggers of hyperpigmentation.
Professional-grade products will produce a better response than DIY hacks found on social media, says Dr Bains
Relying on DIY remedies
It’s difficult to separate fact over fad when it comes to viral skincare DIYs on social media. They typically require kitchen ingredients, such as baking soda or lemon juice, which are popular ingredients in many ‘brightening’ hacks. However, citrus is high in acidity and baking soda can lead to chemical burns, making pigmentation issues deeper and harder to treat. Other examples include coffee ground masks that act as physical exfoliants, which can cause micro-tears to the skin and trigger PIH.
Always consult with a skincare specialist before trying out any at-home hacks. It’s best to opt for professional-grade skincare products as they are scientifically designed to address pigmentation at a cellular level, without compromising your skin’s protective barrier.
Not managing stress
When improperly managed, chronic stress can indirectly worsen pigmentation. As cortisol levels rise, your skin’s healing process begins to slow down, increasing inflammation throughout the body and making dark marks more persistent.
To start with, integrate stress-reducing habits, such as daily exercise and limit caffeine intake, to regulate your body’s natural stress response. Whenever you get a free moment in the day, incorporate 10 minutes of breathwork and meditation to routinely calm your nervous system.
Lastly, don’t forget that proper sleep is essential for overnight skin repair and cell regeneration, so aim to have at least 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Consistency with these habits not only supports your mental health but also promotes a clearer, more even complexion.
