What Hyperpigmentation Did to my Skin

I never knew a skincare issue like Hyperpigmentation existed until I became pregnant with my kids. I knew about the condition because I noticed the skin changes on pregnant women but I didn’t research it or give much thought to it. Hyperpigmentation descended upon me whilst pregnant about 5 years ago, and then I started to experience it real life.

At first, I thought it would all disappear after delivery, but then it didn’t. Then I thought it surely go away within a few months, once I was done with breast-feeding, but it didn’t. It reduced months after delivery but it did not completely go away until my twins were around 3 years old. So it literally took me over 3 years to get my skin tone back. Can you imagine that?

For those who have never experienced Hyperpigmentation, this skincare issue occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain spots on the skin. So for me, that was on my entire face and my neck. It occurs as a result of hormonal influences, and 90% of pregnant women experience it. Women with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation.

So you have a clear picture of what I am on about, here are some pictures for you to compare.

 

Before Pregnancy

Fashion and Style Police image

Beauty Blogger Image

Hyperpigmentation Skin Issue Image

 

 

During Pregnancy

Pregnancy Picture

Pregnancy Picture

 

 

After Pregnancy

Fashion Blogger picture

Blogger Image

 

As you can see in the before, during and after pictures, my skin experienced significant changes during and after pregnancy. I must confess, I found the changes hard to deal with. I expected my skin to bounce back weeks after childbirth but it didn’t and I didn’t like the way I looked.

At first, I tried to ignore it and carry on as normal, thinking it was one of those hormonal imbalances that would just correct itself but it didn’t. So I decided to take matters into my own hands.

 

How I Dealt with my Hyperpigmentation
Suncream

I started paying more attention to my skincare. I made sure I applied as much sunscreen as required, and stayed out of the sun.

 

Exfoliate

Exfoliating once a week with the right products helped. Getting rid of the dead skin helped to brightened up my facial skin.

 

 Skincare Products

I explored various skincare products and fell in love with quite a couple.  I recently reviewed this Vitamin C Ultra Brightening Serum by The Hero Project, and it is really good. I apply it every morning and it does the trick. Another great serum is the KOSE Sekkisei Emulsion. It also contains Vitamin C, and other amazing ingredients.

 

Food Supplements

Food supplements have also helped my skin greatly. I am a huge fan of Well Woman and BioCare Supplements. Nutrient deficiencies can contribute to poor skin health. Food Supplements that may help improve skin health and appearance include:

  • Antioxidants, including vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E
  • Vitamins B3 and B5
  • Evening Primose Oil
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Zinc

 

 

Beauty Blog Image

 

My skin is still not back to what it was 100% but it is getting there. If you suspect that you are dealing with hyper pigmentation, I would recommend you see a dermatologist for professional advise. Don’t be like me and leave it to go on for years.

Have you ever struggled with hyperpigmentation? How did you deal with it?

 

 

 

Common Skin Problems

Most of us will experience some form of skin issue at some point in our lives. It could be caused by stress, hormonal changes, diet, poor health, medication or a wrong skin routine. The common skin problems are as follows:

1. Blackheads:

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Picture Source: qiqiacnetreatment.com

A blackhead is a plug of sebum that is trapped in the sebaceous gland duct and oxidizes on contact with air, turning it black. Blackheads can be avoided by maintaining the right skin routine and using the right products for your skin. Thorough cleansing, exfoliating and skin moisturising will eventually give you a smooth and clear skin. Also, avoid squeezing the blackheads on your skin, this could worsen the issue and lead to an infection.

2. Whiteheads:

Whiteheads also known as Milia are tiny pearly white, sometimes pale yellow bumps that appear under the surface of the skin. Facial exfoliating with a facial brush is a great way to clear whiteheads. A simple facial sauna will also help remove dead skin cells and debris from the skin leaving a clean and clear skin, free from whiteheads.

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3. Open Skin Pores:

Open or enlarged skin pores are pores that are very visible to the naked eye. They usually attract dirt and grime which can get trapped. If you have this skin issue, good cleansing, toning and exfoliating will help minimise the appearance of the skin pores. Also, avoid using facial wipes, which can only result in an overproduction of sebum, which can cause open pores.

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4. Acne:

Acne is a clinical condition where the skin is infected and is characterized by blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, scarring and scaly red skin. It is usually caused by the overproduction of testosterone. The best way to avoid having acne is to stay clear of skin products that will cause the skin to produce more oils, such as alcohol-based cleaners.

Use products that are designed for oily skins but not oil-stripping ones, wash make-up brushes and foundation sponges regularly to avoid infection. In severe acne cases, see a dermatologist.

Thanks for reading.

Stella

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