Tranexamic Acid Is The Ingredient Dermatologists Swear By For Hyperpigmentation | Vogue.
[5–7] Hydroquinone is considered the gold standard for the treatment of hyperpigmentation. It is commonly used at concentrations of 2-4%. Clinical studies report well to excellent responses induced by 2% hydroquinone. Higher concentrations are effective but can cause irritation.
Glycolic acid has now become one of the most recommended skincare ingredients for hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and dullness treatment. If you are in search of the best serum for hyperpigmentation, you can choose the one that comes with glycolic acid.
According to Ilyas, vitamin C products can help with sun damage-related spots by blocking an enzyme in the skin, but for acne-related hyperpigmentation, azelaic acid is one of the best options due to its anti-inflammatory benefits. It also has de-clogging properties and can help combat my oily skin in the summer.
“Treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root, and kojic acid help reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of skin-darkening melanin," says Ni'Kita Wilson, a cosmetic chemist in New York City.
Both ingredients can fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production. Vitamin C (depending on the percentage) can be more harsh for sensitive skin types. Or, you might want to use niacinamide if you have acne-prone skin, and leverage Vitamin C for fading post-acne marks and dark spots.
AHAs: Most experts caution against using AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) with azelaic acid, since the combination can increase skin sensitivity and make skin red, irritated and scaly. BHAs: BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids), such as salicylic acid, can also increase sensitivity when combined with azelaic acid.
Topical therapy is the recommended first-line treatment, with the gold standard being hydroquinone, which can be used alone or in combination with other agents.
Lactic acid treats acne, acne scarring, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and other skin blemishes.
As sun exposure worsens hyperpigmentation it is important to protect the skin with sunscreen on a daily basis. Treatment often begins with a skin care regimen composed of a daily sunscreen, moisturizers, and skin care brighteners.
CO2 Laser Resurfacing is the most effective non-surgical method to improve the appearance of your skin overall and hyperpigmentation specifically. It uses highly specialized lasers to remove dead and damaged skin cells and stimulate collagen production.
A brightening serum with vitamin C.
If you have mild to moderate hyperpigmentation, vitamin C can help fade dark spots. Since vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, it can also protect your skin from future sun damage and environmental stressors (i.e., air pollution).
Hydroquinone is known as the “gold standard” and one of the best ingredients for hyperpigmentation. It is a powerful depigmentation compound that works by inhibiting melanin production.
Niacinamide is generally considered more effective for hyperpigmentation as it inhibits melanin production. Glycolic acid works by increasing cell turnover to reveal newer skin. Using both can provide a powerful approach.
In the clinical studies, niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use. Conclusions: The data suggest niacinamide is an effective skin lightening compound that works by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes.
Hyaluronic acid serums provide hydration, while Niacinamide serum cures acne, and pores, lightens scars and pigmentation and boosts collagen production. Each ingredient has exclusive properties. Using it individually or together, it will work to tackle your skin issues from within.
If you're applying them together, you should apply Vitamin C first, followed by hyaluronic acid or niacinamide. Don't use it with AHAs, BHAs, and retinol at once. You can use it in low concentrations of AHA and BHA in your routine on alternate nights – Vitamin C one night and retinol the other.
The fastest way to get rid of hyperpigmentation is through dermatologist treatments such as chemical peels, microneedling, and laser treatments.