I thought it might be ideal to kick off with a basic diagram so we could visually see where the process of hyperpigmentation starts and how the melanin is transported to the surface of the skin. Excess melanin is usually triggered by internal or external stimuli like hormones or the sun. Once this pigment is created, it is then transported by our skin cells to the surface.
Just by looking at this diagram one can begin to understand how dealing with hyperpigmentation will always require a multi-pronged approach from sun protection, to ingredients that prevent melanin production and the transfer of melanin to the surface of the skin to exfoliants and retinoids that stimulate cell turnover and slough off the pigmented shedding surface level cells.
Yet there is one thing we can be sure of: the foundation to any hyperpigmentation treatment is always always always going to be generous and diligent application of sunscreen (I am talking reapplication too – a few tips on this over @sachiskin stories).
Types & causes of hyperpigmentation tomorrow (you will be surprised how extensive this list can be) then we will get to stuff I know you will want to see: Ingredients and Q&A.
