Why Skin Pigmentation Has Suddenly Become A Problem For You

Protecting our skin is more important to us now than ever before. At this point, around 60% of adults are investing in skin care, and it’s easy to see why. After all, if your skin’s not looking its best, it can be incredibly difficult to feel like your confident, flourishing self. But what happens if you’re doing everything you possibly can to look after your skin, and you’re still noticing worrying signs like pigmentation? This issue, which involves visible signs like sun spots or uneven skin colouration, is surprisingly common, and skin care alone won’t necessarily be enough to address the problem. Keep on reading as we consider why pigmentation is suddenly a problem for you, and what you can do about it. 

Failing to use SPF

Sun damage remains the leading cause of skin pigmentation, as it stimulates melanin production. This can lead to tell-tale sun spots and darkened patches that persist after your hard-won tan fades away. And it’s a sure sign that you’re neglecting all-important protective measures like sunscreen or makeup products with a high SPF. Visiting a skin clinic should be your first port of call if you fear sun-induced pigmentation, as treatments including laser therapy and chemical peels can be the quickest way back to normal skin colouring. However, pigmentation will inevitably return if you don’t also wear SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, or a foundation with a similarly high SPF rating, even when it looks like there’s a decent amount of sun cover. This way, it’ll be far easier to keep your skin tone even and avoid escalating skin issues like age spots down the line. 

Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can all leave women at risk of a type of pigmentation called ‘melasma’ or ‘the mask of pregnancy’. These areas of dark, brown, or grey colouring commonly occur on sun-exposed spaces like your cheeks. While you can certainly seek treatment for a melasma that’s causing you real distress or lingering discolouration, the vast majority of hormone-induced skin pigmentation will go away on its own. This may happen after pregnancy, or after you’ve stopped certain triggering medications and treatments. 

Something Else Going On

While sun and hormones are the most common reasons for pigmentation, there are a plethora of other potential causes, including fungal infections, certain vitamin deficiencies, and even side effects of certain medications like antibiotics. If you suspect that either of these causes might be to blame, then your best bet is to speak with a dermatologist, who can investigate underlying causes and let you know about the best potential treatments. It’s vital not to ignore skin pigmentation, as it could always be a signifier for another issue. In rare cases, sudden changes in skin pigmentation could even indicate serious conditions like melanoma. So it’s always well worth getting checked and keeping your skin as clear as possible.

Don’t let pigmentation plant a problem in your skin care routine. Instead, consider these causes and find a way back to clear skin at last!