Uneven skin tone can be an issue many of us face. It’s very easy to get, but luckily, there are several ways to improve the overall appearance of your skin. Here’s more information on uneven skin tone, its causes, and treatment options to prevent it from becoming a bigger problem.
What is Uneven Skin Tone?
Uneven skin tone, also known as hyperpigmentation, comes in many forms:
Dark spots
Redness
Acne scars
Discoloration on the skin
Age spots
Some blemishes
These areas of uneven skin tone are caused by an excess of melanin (the pigment in your skin and hair is produced by melanin) and can damage your skin without you realizing it’s being damaged. For example, if your skin is exposed to too much UV radiation, melanin can escape through holes in the damaged skin layers and create a continuous stream of pigment that makes dark spots and areas darker. If this hyperpigmentation is left untreated, over time, the skin can look noticeably older, even 10 years older!
What are some of the causes of uneven skin tone?
Pollution – The pollutants we’re exposed to in our daily lives can be terrible for our skin. Not only do they age the skin prematurely, but toxins from air pollution and environmental particles can penetrate the skin, forming dark spots on the face. Cleansing your skin and following a good skin care routine will rid your face of these aggressors and keep your skin clean and healthy.
Sun exposure – The sun’s UV rays are very strong and overexposure can cause dark brown patches and uneven patches on the face and other areas. It’s worth noting that you don’t need to sunbathe on a sunny day to get sunburned. Just the trip from your car to your office door is enough to cause damage. The sun’s rays are divided into two types of rays: UVB, which causes skin burns, and UVA, which causes skin aging. UVA can even penetrate glass. But don’t panic, using a sun protection factor of 30 or higher every day will protect your skin.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – You’ll notice dark spots and hyperpigmentation over large areas of skin after inflammation, usually caused by the appearance of spots and pimples. This is a good example of how poking and squeezing a stain can “pop” it and cause more damage. Once the skin is injured or lesioned, it takes longer to heal and you’ll notice that the dark acne scars are still there. In other words, stay away and stop picking at your spots.
Hormones – Hormonal-related hyperpigmentation, also known as melasma, occurs in expectant mothers who develop a “mask of pregnancy.” You’ll also find that certain contraceptives, cosmetics, and medications can cause this uneven skin tone.
How to Get Rid of Uneven Skin Tone
I don’t want to sound too gloomy, but getting rid of dark spots and uneven skin tone on your skin takes a lot of time, and there are no products that will cure it overnight. You may also notice that the pigmentation doesn’t completely go away after treating these areas, especially when it has reached the lower layers of the skin. They are, however, less visible to the naked eye. Here are some daily steps you can take to ensure you’re protecting your skin and treating all areas at once.
Daily SPF – This can’t be stressed enough, make SPF a staple in your morning routine. This not only protects against UV rays, but also against aggressors like pollution.
Exfoliate – Exfoliate 2 to 3 times a week to remove dead skin cells from the outer layer of your skin. By removing these and revealing new skin underneath, you can slowly remove the pigmentation of any dark spots, making them appear lighter.
Skin Care – Look for a skin care routine with the best ingredients to treat and prevent uneven skin tone. Chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs can easily remove brown spots.
Moisturize – Drink plenty of water and moisturize your skin every day. This locks in moisture and keeps your skin’s protective barrier healthy and working properly.
Consistency is key and even with these simple steps, you will find that your skin stays balanced. Just think of this routine as a giant sun hat that protects your skin from damage throughout the day.
For areas that are noticeably worse or cause you a lot of concern, it’s best to visit a dermatologist to discuss the next steps in treatment.
Where Do You Get Uneven Skin Tone?
Any part of the body that is regularly exposed to excessive sun or pollution can develop uneven skin tone. The simple steps explained earlier can be used on any part of the body. Always remember what damage your skin is susceptible to and do your best to follow the best care routine.
How to Treat Uneven Skin Tone on Your Face
You will find that hyperpigmentation affects your face more than other areas of your skin. This is usually because the face is often exposed to the sun and other environmental factors. With that in mind, we wanted to share with you the best ingredients to look out for in your skincare routine.
Vitamin C – Also known as absorptive acid in skincare, it is derived from fruits like oranges, strawberries, and pomegranates. Vitamin C contains a variety of antioxidants that protect the skin from free radicals, which can damage tissue and skin layers and cause dark spots. You’ll also find that this vitamin strengthens the skin and gives it an amazing glow.
Chemical Peels – Facial acids like glycolic and salicylic acid penetrate deep into the skin’s deep layers to remove all the dead skin cells that cause blemishes and a dull complexion. You’ll also notice that over time, the pigmentation of dark spots will lighten and moisture will be retained in the skin.
Chemical Peels – If you find that over-the-counter products aren’t giving you the results you expected, your next step should be to seek help from a trained professional. These may use higher-grade, medical-grade AHA and BHA concentrates, which are more effective and can deliver results faster.
Although it can be frustrating to notice that you have uneven skin tone and brown spots, it’s not all bad, especially if you take action quickly. If you establish a protective routine and find the best treatment for your skin, you won’t have to worry about uneven skin tone for long!
