Hyperpigmentation has become one of the top skin concerns world-wide. The skin lightening trend started more than 25 years ago in Asia and then India with "whitening" products, but now are termed "brightening products which are selling like crazy in the U.S and around the world.
Dark spots are caused by a number of factors whether environmental (extrinsic) or internal (intrinsic). Core causes which create dark spots are, acne blemishes, pregnancy, hormonal fluctuation in women over 50, discoloured moles from sun exposure without SPF protection, smoking, some medication, a diet of excessive greasy or spicy foods, lack of vitamins, excessive oil production causing blogged pores, shaving causing ingrown hairs depending on the type of hair and daily skincare regiments.
Plastic surgeons, dermatologists, aestheticians, doctors, makeup artists, pharmacists, nutritionists, TV shows, and makeover shows are constantly promoting how to cover or get rid of skin discolourations. It's in demand so the supply has increased.
To lighten dark spots a dermatologist might recommend a product that contains hydroquinone. However, there's been a lot of controversy surrounding this ingredient, which has been banned in a number of countries because of the side effects, such as excessive redness, dryness and a burning sensation when applied.
Some of the best skin lighteners I have recommend to women and men is Clinique's Even Spot Corrector, Prevage, Garnier Clinical Dark Spot Corrector, Obagi Nu Derm. and Elure Advanced lightening lotion to name a few. There are an abundant amount of skin lightening creams in stores, ensure expiration dates are checked and discontinue use if you experience redness/rash and consult your doctor. Other Technical lightening services that help the skin are:
Chemical peels
The surface skin layer is taken off with the help of special chemical preparation. It's rather effective and a painless procedure.
Laser peeling
You get rid of the surface skin layer under the impact of special laser. It becomes the stimulus for cell enlargement. But after the procedure you have to use anaplerotic cream. It would be better if it takes place in winter or in colder climates, because your skin shouldn't undergo the direct sun beam impact for several months after laser peeling.
Ultrasonic peeling
With the help of ultrasound, special bleaching preparations for your skin are placed in the epidermis. To get the desirable effect ten procedures should be done.Note, all the above treatments can affect further darkness if you do not consult a certified technician and organisation to perform such procedures. The goal is lighten and not darken key areas of the skin. It has been found that darker skin tones may become even more discoloured. A great way to see if is the right procedure is for you is to consult a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can address the dermal layers in the skin and see clients they have done procedures on.
Women now associate discolorations as a key thing that shows their age, so why not take a chance and find a solution that works best for you. If you are not as concerned, I would recommend starting your children at an early age using a high SPF 30 plus. Remember SPF works by using a simple formula to reapply. If you use an SPF 30 you multiply by 10 and that means you have 300 minutes before your skin gets affected by the UVA and UVB rays. Another way to cover and treat your skin is using a good foundation and concealer that you feel comfortable wearing in warmer climates.
Healthy skincare is a healthy way of maintaining your outer beauty so you feel the inner beauty.