Hyperpigmentation, or age spots, results from unprotected sun exposure. Melasma is another form of hyperpigmentation caused by hormonal influences from pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy. Hyperpigmentation due to sun overexposure is the focus of this article.
Essentially, these dark spots are due to increased melanin production in the skin. Melanin is responsible for both our skin's color as well as our skin's natural defense against the sun. When we don't have adequate sun protection on, melanin tries to protect us from UV radiation. The UV rays penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin creating an oxidative environment that triggers enzymes to produce melanin. Melanin attempts to neutralize the sun's energy protecting us from the formation of free radicals that damage our cellular DNA. As the skin cells travel to the surface of the skin and are exposed to prolonged sunlight, melanin forms dark sun spots.
The best way to combat hyperpigmentation is to protect your skin from the sun. Choose a product that has SPF 30 and uses mineral sun blocks like zinc dioxide and titanium dioxide. Serums high in powerful antioxidants such as vitamin A, vitamin C, green tea, and selenium protect and repair the skin from photo damage, specifically reducing UV damage to cell DNA. Juice Plus provides nutrition to the skin internally by delivering protective antioxidants and phytonutrients from 17 different fruits, veggies, and grains.
If you have stubborn areas of hyperpigmentation consult your holistic esthetician for microdermabrasion or light therapy treatments.
Christine,
I have a pt with melasma and am looking for someone who can offer glycolic peels and suggestions for a lotion with 10% glycolic acid. Email me at mmccarty@bastyr.edu if you can help!!
Posted by: Melissa McCarty | 08/09/2010 at 05:27 PM
great post!
I've found that hydroquinone creams are also quite effective for treating hyperpigmentation. But yeah since your article is about sun exposure, the obvious method of prevention would be to stay away it.
Posted by: hyperpigmentation | 12/04/2011 at 03:36 PM