3 root causes of hyperpigmentation - melanin production, melanin transfer and slow skin cell turnover

3 root causes of hyperpigmentation

Many of us might assume that hyperpigmentation happens due to genetics or hormonal fluctuations. While that may be true for some people, this common skin condition of developing excess pigmentation, i.e., dark brown patches or dark spots on the skin, has three root causes. These are melanin production, melanin transfer, and slow skin cell turnover. 

These three factors are the villains wreaking havoc on your skin. Here's how.

Villain 1: Melanin production  

All types of hyperpigmentation – melasma, sunspots, post-inflammatory spots – are triggered by various internal and external factors; however, they all stem from one root cause: increased melanin production.

Melanin is a pigment produced by skin cells called melanocytes. This pigment gives your skin its colour and maintains its overall tone. Irregularities in its production can affect your facial skin and certain areas of your body’s skin, such as the skin on your arms, neck, or even your back. 

Villain 2: Melanin transfer 

Your skin receives its brownish colour through melanin production and the transfer of membrane-bound organelles released from melanocytes to other keratinocytes at the epidermal level.

Scientific research suggests this pigmentation transfer must happen seamlessly and efficiently to achieve complete protection from sun exposure. Even a minor glitch can result in further sun damage, and eventually, hyperpigmentation.

Villain 3: Slow skin cell turnover 

The process of producing new skin cells to replace damaged/old ones is called skin cell turnover. However, this natural process largely depends on your skin proteins, such as collagen and elastin. Their production drops significantly after a certain age, which slows down cell turnover. 

The mechanism’s reduced pace could mean waiting a long time to achieve a clear complexion. While you could be staying indoors to protect your skin from further damage or applying full-spectrum sunscreens, the time taken by your skin to repair itself may not change.

Will common remedies fight for your skin?  

Exfoliating ingredients such as salicylic acid, kojic acid, and retinol are used to eliminate dead skin cells and help boost skin cell turnover. Many people also suggest hydroquinone to fight pigmentation. However, these ingredients work only on the surface of the skin. To permanently treat melasma or any hyperpigmentation, you’ll require combination treatments and other targeted, powerful therapies that work on the skin’s deeper layers. 

This is the anti-hyperpigmentation hero we all need 

Studies and trials done by dermatologists have shown that a formulation of 4-hexylresorcinol (HR), niacinamide (Vitamin B3, VB3), and RPC (retinyl propionate with climbazole, a retinol booster) is a superior skincare technology for hyperpigmentation. This ingredient blend works on all three root causes of hyperpigmentation. Hexylresorcinol, an even-tone active, deeply penetrates your skin’s layers and regulates melanin production. Niacinamide calms skin inflammation and effectively obstructs melanin transfer. The repairing, anti-ageing properties of RPC in this blend promote skin cell turnover, helping revitalise the damaged layers of your skin. With regular use, you’ll start noticing brighter, more even-toned skin. As this advanced formula is pH-balanced and does not strip away your skin’s natural moisture, it is perfect for daily use and effective results.

Thus, VB3+HR+RPC technology is a holistic solution to reduce hyperpigmentation in four weeks. It is recommended by skincare experts and works on all skin types.