How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation From Acne

It can be challenging to deal with acne, especially with the marks that linger after. Acne scars develop when inflamed acne blemishes injure the skin and the underlying tissue. As the skin works to repair this damage, it produces collagen. If too little collagen is produced, indented scars can form, whereas an excess can lead to raised scars. 

However, while acne scars involve actual damage to the skin's structure, many people find that their skin darkens in the areas where breakouts occur. This is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), a common concern that leads many to find ways to even out their skin tone.

PIH can affect different layers of the skin. When it's epidermal, meaning it's in the superficial layers, it often looks like brown marks. Dermal PIH, which is deeper, tends to present as bluish-grey patches. 

The depth of the pigmentation can influence how well it responds to various treatments.

Why Does Hyperpigmentation Occur With Acne?

The colour of our skin comes from a pigment called melanin. When acne develops, inflammation occurs. This then causes the affected area to increase melanin production, which is essentially the skin's natural healing response to irritation and inflammation. Various inflammatory and immune factors are thought to contribute to this process, leading to an excess of pigment.

Moreover, exposure to the sun can significantly worsen PIH. Sun exposure triggers increased melanin production, a substance that absorbs and redistributes UV light within the skin's upper layers while shielding cellular genetic material from harmful rays. This can cause existing dark spots to become even darker and more noticeable. This is why consistent sun protection is important when addressing uneven skin tone on the face and other areas of the body. Understanding what causes uneven skin tone is the first crucial step toward managing it proactively.

How to Address Hyperpigmentation

Thankfully, there are several topical and oral options to get rid of hyperpigmentation caused by acne. 

• Creams containing retinoids can help speed up skin cell turnover, gradually fading dark marks. 
• Chemical exfoliants, such as salicylic and glycolic acids, also work by gently removing the outer layers of the skin, promoting a more uniform skin tone.
• Umbrellas and sun-protective clothing prevent the existing acne marks from further darkening.
• A broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) works alongside your chosen skincare solutions in addressing hyperpigmentation for uneven skin tone.
• Finally, skin-lightening supplements with certain ingredients, such as Belight and olive fruit extract, can be found in high-quality supplements in Singapore and may help mitigate melanin production and promote a brighter complexion.

When to See a Professional

Many cases of PIH can be managed with over-the-counter products and lifestyle changes. However, it's always a good idea to seek advice from professionals before making meaningful changes to your daily routine, particularly when dealing with stubborn acne scar-like types of marks from hyperpigmentation.

A qualified skincare professional or board-certified dermatologist can identify the specific type of hyperpigmentation you have and offer recommendations tailored to your skin type and condition. They can also suggest topical products or in-clinic procedures if necessary, ensuring you receive personalised care that can benefit your skin.

Supporting Your Journey to Clearer Skin

Embracing a proactive skincare routine and understanding the nuances of how hyperpigmentation develops are key steps toward achieving a more even complexion. For example, complementing topical avenues with targeted skin-lightening supplements formulated with natural ingredients may be a promising way to support overall skin health and radiance. 

Again, before introducing any new supplements or making significant changes to your skincare, consulting with a skincare professional or dermatologist is always recommended to ensure your chosen methods suit your skin’s needs and align with your journey to a clearer, more even skin tone.