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How to Reduce Hyperpigmentation

Contributor
By Shandell Williams
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition caused by an overproduction of pigmentation by the skin cells. There are several factors that may cause hyperpigmentation: acne scars, hormone estrogen levels, aging and allergic reactions from prescription drugs including benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Regardless of how the hyperpigmentation occurred, it can often leave you feeling self-conscious about your skin. With so many products targeted toward treating hyperpigmentation, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed or disappointed from product promises of reducing the hyperpigmentation but failing to deliver. The good news is that you can reduce hyperpigmentation with the proper skin care regimen.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Cleanse your skin with a gentle exfoliating cleanser designed to even skin tone. Aveeno has a line of skin care specifically created to reduce hyperpigmentation. To properly exfoliate the skin, massage the exfoliating cleanser in a circular motion. This helps to remove dead skin cells to reveal a healthier complexion.

  2. Step 2

    Use a skin toner to close the pores. Aloe vera juice makes an amazing natural toner. Take a cotton ball and dip it into the aloe vera juice and apply it directly to the hyperpigmentation. Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and skin irritation.

  3. Step 3

    Apply pure vitamin E oil to the hyperpigmentation, using a cotton swab to apply the oil. This should be applied to clean skin twice a day to help reduce hyperpigmentation. Vitamin E has been proven to have several health benefits, including but not limited to reducing hyperpigmentation, reversing the signs of aging and diminishing fine line and wrinkles. Vitamin E contains antioxidants that protect the skin from sun damage, which increases hyperpigmentation.

  4. Step 4

    Apply a skin lightener to the area where you want to reduce hyperpigmentation. Unrefined African Shea butter is a great natural alternative to hydroquinone, a chemical used in fade creams. Shea butter is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial in improving skin clarity and overall health of the skin. You can also use a nonprescription bleaching cream. Some popular brands are Esotercia, Nadinola and Reviva Labs.

Tips & Warnings
  • Keep your hands off your face in order to avoid further breakouts that may cause hyperpigmentation. Test all fade creams on a small part of your skin to avoid a possible allergic reaction.

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