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
During Pregnancy
After Pregnancy
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
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?
