If you suffer from pigmentation & dark spots then this is the routine for you.
Pigmentation can be a tricky one to tackle as it is often caused by hormones or genetics (these both are annoyingly out of our control). With this in mind, there are things you can do to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and prevent further damage.
Firstly, let's talk about pigmentation. What is it ?
Pigmentation refers to the coloring of the skin. Melanin is made by the cells in the skin and is the pigment responsible for your skin's colour. ‘Hyper-Pigmentation’ is a condition which causes your skin to darken. This can be in the form of age spots, dark circles or freckles.
What causes pigmentation ?
UV rays - UV radiation will induce pigment darkening which causes the modification of melanin in the skin. This is a protective mechanism in which the skin is producing melanin to protect itself from the sun, for some people this will result in a tan and for others can cause dark spots / pigmentation.
Hormones - Hormonal pigmentation is also known as melasma and can be induced by the oestrogen hormone. This can occur as a result of the hormonal contraceptive pill, pregnancy or hormone therapy. Melasma will typically occur in places that have been exposed to UV (cheeks, forehead).
Inflammation - Inflammation of the skin can also cause hyperpigmentation, this may be caused by acne, cuts or abrasions.
Ageing - As we age the number of pigment containing cells decreases. The remaining melanocytes increase in size, leading to thinner, more translucent skin.
Let's talk skin care -
With these factors in mind, it is important to be selecting skin care products that work to brighten and protect your skin.
Cleansing - If you are wanting to reduce the appearance of pigmentation the Purifying Gel Cleanser is our go-to product. Enriched with Licorice Root extract, this cleanser will inhibit the production of enzymes which cause the skin to darken. Licorice Root has also been found to protect the skin from UV damage. We recommend using the Purifying Gel Cleanser AM/PM for best results.
Exfoliating - Weekly exfoliation should be an essential if you are wanting radiant skin! Weekly exfoliation will buff away dead skin cells, encouraging cell renewal and greater product absorption. The Fruit Enzyme Refiner is packed full of antioxidant rich ingredients which will help brighten your overall complexion while also protecting the skin. Enriched with Pineapple extract, the Refiner will deliver essential vitamin C to the skin - Vitamin C will brighten your complexion while also encouraging collagen production (hello new, glowing skin!).
Nourishing - We always recommend incorporating a good quality, nourishing night time face oil. The Vitalize Face Elixir will complement the Refiner & Gel Cleanser, enhancing their skin care benefits. Blended Pomegranate Seed & Rosehip Oils, the Vitalize Face Elixir is rich in vitamins C & A helping to brighten your complexion and reduce the appearance of pigmentation.
Protection - With all good skin care regimes comes the use of daily SPF. We cannot emphasize this enough, protection is the absolute BEST form of skin care. Our new ‘Pure Defence SPF 30’ is a zinc based, mineral SPF that works to protect your skin from damaging UV rays. Blended with antioxidant rich ingredients such as Grapeseed Oil & Avocado Oil, Pure Defence is the ultimate everyday SPF.
Encyclopedia, M. and skin, A., 2022. Aging changes in skin: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. [online] Medlineplus.gov. Available at: <https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004014.htm> [Accessed 18 February 2022].
Maddodi, N., Jayanthy, A., & Setaluri, V. (2012). Shining light on skin pigmentation: the darker and the brighter side of effects of UV radiation. Photochemistry and photobiology, 88(5), 1075–1082. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-1097.2012.01138.x
