How to prevent pigmentation
Pigmentation can be very stubborn to treat once it's on the skin, so here are a few products you can incorporate into your skincare routine to help prevent it and maintain a more even skin tone.
What causes pigmentation?
Pigmentation is often caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which develops from post-acne marks and dark spots. It can also be triggered by sun exposure, especially when a broad-spectrum sunscreen is not used consistently to avoid sun damage.
Genetics can also play a role in causing pigmentation, as well as hormones or hormonal imbalances caused by pregnancy, or birth control contraceptives.
Certain medications or any trauma inflicted on your skin, such as skin picking when you have acne, can also increase your chances of developing pigmentation. An unlikely cause, but one that may still contribute, is waxing, as your skin experiences mild trauma as part of the hair removal treatment.
The best way to prevent pigmentation
Pigmentation is a fairly stubborn skin concern and affects a large percentage of people at some point in their lives. The most important ways to help prevent the formation of pigmentation would be:
- Make sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen every day before sun exposure
- Make sure to reapply your sunscreen regularly if you have increased sun exposure throughout the day
What products can help prevent pigmentation?
If you have oily/combination skin, I would recommend the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control (Dry Touch) SPF 50+ 50ml, a lightweight but moisturising UVA and UVB broad-spectrum SPF.
Should you have more dry skin or a more balanced skin (not too dry or too oily), then I would recommend the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Hydrating Cream SPF 50+ 50ml. This is a very nourishing sunscreen that offers high sun protection while also supporting the skin barrier.
NB: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please check product suitability with your doctor, pharmacist, or dermatologist before using active treatments or changing your routine.
For more sensitive skin types, I would recommend the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50+ 50ml. This sunscreen is a lightweight formula that offers high protection without irritation.
If you have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or post-acne marks, I would recommend the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Ultra Concentrated Serum 30ml. It is a quick-absorbing, lightweight serum that helps improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of post-acne marks with consistent use. Use 1-2 times per week initially and increase as tolerated.
NOTE: This product is not recommended for very dry or very sensitive skin, but would be best suited if you have oil/acne-prone combination skin.
For a daily moisturiser for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, I would recommend the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo +M Moisturiser 40ml. This is a great daily moisturiser for oily or congested skin and can also be used as a spot treatment. It helps to target breakouts while supporting the skin to reduce the likelihood of post-acne marks.
NOTE: this product is not recommended to be used with the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Ultra Concentrated Serum 30ml at the same time.
If you have a more balanced skin type, not too dry or too oily, then the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 100ml is a great soothing and repairing balm, especially for post-acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). It helps soothe and support the skin barrier, which may help skin feel calmer while post-acne marks fade over time.
It can be used on combination or oily skin types, but as it is a thicker cream, it is best to do a patch test first to determine suitability.
A great option to help brighten the skin would be La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 30 ml to help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of pigmentation over time. Best used in the morning under sunscreen for added antioxidant protection.
Results may vary depending on the product and your skin type, and may take anywhere from 4-6 weeks to show a visual difference.
Products Mentioned:
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control (Dry Touch) SPF 50+ 50ml
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Hydrating Cream SPF 50+ 50ml
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50+ 50ml
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Ultra Concentrated Serum 30ml
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo +M Moisturiser 40ml
- La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5 100ml
- La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C12 30ml
