Hyperpigmentation, or skin pigmentation, refers to the darkening of an area of skin, which can range from freckles and dark spots to melasma.
According to skin expert and founder of freezeframe, Sonia Amoroso, the main cause of hyperpigmentation is believed to be oxidative and nitrosative stress.
She explained that while we are aware of oxidative stress caused by oxygen-based free radicals, nitrogen-based free radicals are considered an even more significant contributor to pigmentation.
UV rays from the sun are the primary cause of free radicals, but pollution, tobacco smoke, and industrial chemicals also play a major role.
People with low levels of melanin are more prone to freckles or sun spots, while those with darker skin tones are more prone to pigmentation resulting from injury and post-inflammatory scarring, Sonia noted.
Sonia added that women going through hormonal changes are also more susceptible to hyperpigmentation, as changes in estrogen can make them more sensitive to the sun. This is why melasma is often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.”
Age spots are more common in people over 40 as melanocytes decrease but the remaining ones increase in size, leading to more focused pigmentation.
Despite this, Sonia emphasized that pigmentation is generally harmless and not a sign of a serious medical condition.
However, she cautioned individuals to keep an eye on any changes in spots or discoloration. If any spots turn scaly or undergo changes, it is important to see a doctor.
To reduce the appearance of existing pigmentation, options include laser treatments or clinical skin peels, though these can be costly.
In the past, hydroquinone was used in at-home treatments, but it has since been banned in the UK due to serious side effects.
Sonia recommended an alternative called PIGMENT CLEAR by freezeframe, an all-natural formula that has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation by up to 87% in one month.
PIGMENT CLEAR includes 10 powerful plant-based ingredients that have been proven to reduce pigmentation and skin discoloration. It provides a comprehensive 360-degree skin treatment and offers over 99% protection against pollution and UV rays.
Some of the ingredients in PIGMENT CLEAR, such as cacay oil, rosehip oil, and pracaxi oil, effectively remove darkened skin through exfoliation thanks to their high levels of plant retinols.
Other ingredients, including inca inchi, lycopene, acai seed oil, cranberry seed oil, mixed tocopherols, and tocotrienols, are powerful antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and protect against pigmentation. A derivative of vitamin E called chromanol has been proven to counter nitrogen-based free radicals, which are considered the major cause of pigmentation.
In clinical studies, the proprietary blend of these ingredients in freezeframe PIGMENT CLEAR showed up to an 87% reduction in pigmentation in just four weeks. It was found to be more effective than hydroquinone without any skin bleaching or side effects.
Sonia emphasized the importance of limiting exposure to free-radical damage. This can be done by reducing sun exposure, wearing a high SPF sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation, and minimizing exposure to pollution and tobacco smoke.
Additionally, incorporating antioxidants as supplements or in one’s diet can contribute to a multi-layered approach to reduce and prevent pigmentation.