Understanding Hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern, particularly among women of color. It occurs when certain areas of the skin produce more melanin, leading to darkened patches. These "dark spots" can appear anywhere on the body, but they most frequently show up on areas like the elbows, knees, chest, and even underarms. Addressing hyperpigmentation effectively requires knowing what to do—and what not to do—when treating these areas.
Homemade Remedies: There's a wealth of information online about using natural ingredients like lemon juice, turmeric, and other household staples to treat dark spots. While these remedies can be effective, they often require a long-term commitment to see results. Let’s be real—most of us want faster improvements, especially when it comes to something as visible as hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, many DIY treatments don’t come with specific measurements or instructions, leading to either overuse or underuse of ingredients. This lack of precision can potentially cause more harm than good. We've seen clients with damaged skin barriers or even chemical-like burns from these well-intentioned home treatments. Our advice? Don’t try these at home without professional guidance. If you're serious about treating hyperpigmentation, it's best to consult a skincare expert.
What Products Should You Use? "So, if I shouldn't be using kitchen ingredients, what should I use?" That’s a fantastic question! We’ve had so many clients ask us what the best products are for treating hyperpigmentation, and to be honest, the options are overwhelming. But don't worry—we’re here to help you sort through the noise.
Here are a few acids we recommend for treating hyperpigmentation on the body. These acids are generally stronger than those formulated for facial use, making them more effective on the thicker skin of the body:
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Glycolic Acid: A powerful exfoliator that removes dead skin cells, helping to reveal brighter, more even-toned skin underneath. Look for products with concentrations between 10-20% for body use, like the Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash available here.
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Lactic Acid: This acid is excellent for people with sensitive skin. It gently exfoliates while also hydrating the skin, making it perfect for dry areas like elbows and knees. A concentration of 5-12% is usually effective.
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Niacinamide: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide helps to lighten dark spots by inhibiting the transfer of melanin to the skin surface. Look for products with 5% niacinamide for optimal results.
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Kojic Acid: Derived from fungi, kojic acid is effective in lightening sunspots and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Products with a concentration of up to 4% are generally recommended for body use.
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Arbutin: A natural skin-brightening agent that works by inhibiting the enzyme that causes pigmentation. It’s less irritating than hydroquinone and is often used in concentrations of 1-2% in skincare products.
We also recommend being mindful of where you purchase your skincare products. While stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls may offer amazing deals, it’s crucial to check the shelf life of the products. Expired products can be less effective, and no one wants to waste money on something that won't work.
Recommended Products: To help you on your journey to brighter, more even-toned skin, here are a few products we recommend:
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Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash: This body wash is perfect for gently exfoliating and brightening your skin. Available here.
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Glycolic Retinol Pads: These pads are an excellent addition to your skincare routine, offering a powerful combination of glycolic acid and retinol to target hyperpigmentation. Available on our website.
But What About Peels for the Body? A common question we get is, "Can you perform peels on the body?" The answer is yes! But—and this is a big but—we do NOT recommend doing this at home. We know, we know—someone on TikTok or Instagram probably told you to buy acid peels online and do it yourself. Please don’t.
What many people don’t realize is that chemical peels are essentially controlled burns designed to remove the top layers of skin. If we called them "chemical burns," they wouldn’t sound as appealing, now would they? That’s why it’s so important to leave this to the professionals. As your "Besthetician," I highly encourage you to reach out to us or another trusted skincare professional to guide you through the process safely. We’re also happy to help you find an esthetician in your area who can perform these treatments.
Don't Forget the Sunscreen! One of the most crucial steps in treating hyperpigmentation is protecting your skin from further damage. This means applying sunscreen to all areas of your body, especially those that are exposed to the sun. We recommend using the Black Girl Sunscreen Aerosol—it's super easy to apply just about anywhere and offers great protection. Check it out here.