Hyperpigmentation,

Hyperpigmentation, often seen as blotchy dark spots and uneven skin tone, is caused by the overproduction of melanin in a process called melanogenesis, is one of the most common concerns we see. People who suffer from inflammatory skin diseases tend to have lower levels of zinc in their body; whether this deficiency is from zinc being used to combat inflammation, or low zinc in the diet is one of the causes of the inflammation, is not yet known. Regardless of the mechanism, we know zinc plays a vital role in skin health.
Similar to an antioxidant, zinc helps heal and rejuvenate skin. Sudocream contains Zinc – teens have been using it for years to heal spots. The mineral reduces the formation of harmful free radicals and protects skin when it's exposed to pollution, ultraviolet light, and other skin-agers. Zinc also helps facilitate apoptosis-programmed cell death-which is a natural part of skin renewal. In individuals with a zinc deficiency, skin cells stick together instead of dying and sloughing off as they should. This build-up of bacteria, oil, and skin cells blocks pores, causing the skin to turn red, swollen, and tender. Eventually, acne forms. Because zinc regulates cell production and turnover, it can help naturally reduce the amount of oil your skin produces, possibly preventing clogged pores in the first place.

Men should aim for at least 11 milligrams per day, while women only need 8 milligrams per day. The best sources include crab, lobster, oysters, and most meats. For vegetarians and mostly plant eaters, you can find zinc in beans, cheese, fortified cereals, lentils, and yogurt. However, for increased absorption, animal protein is superior to plant-based sources. Phytates, (Phytates perform an essential role in plants, as they are an energy source for the sprouting seed) antioxidant compounds found in whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, can decrease zinc absorption. If these foods are your primary zinc sources, you can increase absorption by sprouting or adding in fermented foods at the same meal.

Sprouted wheat cereal will have more readily absorbable zinc than traditional cereals. If you feel you are deficient in zinc, consider adding in sprouted versions of your favourite cereals and grains or a daily zinc supplement.

Foods that contain Zinc are cooked oysters, cooked lean beef and short ribs, toasted wheat germ, spinach, pumpkin, sesame or squash seeds, nuts, cocoa and chocolate, pork & chicken, beans and mushrooms.

 
The sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulate the process as the body works to protect itself. Melanocytes, whose only job is to protect the skin, live in the very lower epidermis (basal layer) and the upper papillary dermis. Melanocytes act as dispatchers and make melanosomes. The melanosomes are like tiny vehicles that carry the pigment (melanin) to the keratinocytes via dendrites-branch- like arms that help it reach the skin's surface to put up a shield. That shield translates as hyperpigmentation.

UV rays from sun exposure are the most common melanocyte stimulant and also the biggest contributor to hyperpigmentation issues. Hormones, inflammation, acne and skin injuries also can cause hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation can present in many ways:

* Liver spots, named for their colour, have nothing to do with the liver .Liver spots are seen most often on older clients' hands and are caused by cumulative and chronic unprotected sun exposure.

* Melasma, often called a pregnancy mask, is a pattern of splotches that occurs across the face, primarily around the mouth and cheeks. Melasma is caused by hormonal imbalances that signal the melanocytes to overproduce melanin. It often occurs with pregnant or menopausal clients who are experiencing large shifts in hormones. Other medical conditions that influence this condition are hormonal contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and thyroid conditions. Until the hormones are balanced, this skin condition can be difficult to successfully treat.

* Mottling is the speckling of darker colour that occurs over sun-exposed areas like the face and hands. Mottling is one of the first signs of sun-related premature ageing.

* Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin has been injured or inflamed and does not heal correctly. This condition has nothing to do with sun exposure. Examples include pigmented marks left on the skin after a pimple has healed-possibly induced by pimple picking or popping-or scabs that do not heal naturally. While pigmented macules, or dark spots, can occur on any skin, they are most prevalent on skin of colour.

* Solar lentigines, also known as freckles, are caused by sun exposure and can appear all over the body.

Home-care solutions
Addressing hyperpigmentation depends on the cause and involves a carefully planned program of topical skin treatment and lifestyle adjustments. It is important to fully commit to a treatment program, so a remedy/correction can be successful. The following are staples of home- care treatment for hyperpigmentation:

* First and foremost, avoid sun and heat sources, regardless of the actual cause of hyper pigmentation. UV rays are a trigger to production and should be avoided, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. When outside, everyone should be encouraged to wear sunscreen, protective clothing and a hat.

* Reduce sources of inflammation, including picking pimples and using incorrect products and overly aggressive skin treatments. While some lasers can be used to treat hyperpigmentation, other laser treatments may be too aggressive and can worsen conditions if not used with great care.

* Use an daily antioxidant vitamin C serum such as Skinceutical CE Ferulic or Phloretin along with a   broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. Sunscreen must be applied every morning and repeated whenever you are exposed to sun.

* Use a twice weekly exfoliant that contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). These products include glycolic, lactic, malic, and mandelic acids (or a blend), and, at mild levels, gently remove layers of pigmented keratinocytes from the skin surface, promoting the production of healthy skin cells via the cell turnover process. Salicylic acid or retinol can also be used to stimulate cell turnover. Care in required not to use while on holiday or outdoors a lot as you are a little more exposed to the sun when using exfoliating ingredients.

* Use a melanin suppressant. Skinceutical Advanced Pigment Corrector is clinically proven and tested on all ethnicities to improve the appearance of stubborn skin discoloration and uneven skin tone as it boosts the appearance of radiance. Skin discoloration is often caused by accumulated sun exposure, hormonal shifts, and the natural aging process, Advanced Pigment Corrector is a multi-action comprehensive technology working to exfoliate skin to reduce the appearance of discoloration. Formulated with an exclusive breakthrough cocktail featuring high-potency 1% Hydroxyphenoxy Propionic Acid and 0.5% Ellagic Acid, Advanced Pigment Corrector works via a multi-action mechanism to powerfully reduce the look of discoloration and improve overall skin appearance. Use once or twice daily, apply one to two pumps, to a dry face and other areas of discoloration, or as directed by a physician. In the morning, apply Advanced Pigment Corrector after an antioxidant serum and before sunscreen. For optimal results, limit sun exposure while using this product.
Eminence's Bright Skin Booster Serum, a hydroquinone alternative, is a tyrosinase inhibitor that limits the biochemical processes in which melanin is formed, reducing its production and, therefore, improving the condition. Other agents that produce similar results are arbutin, azelaic acid, bearberry extract, kojic acid, lactic acid, liquorice extract, and others.

Stronger medical treatments include prescription drugs such as steroids, Retin A, and high concentrations of hydroquinone.

* Professional- strength AHAs, as well as beta hydroxy acids can be especially helpful in reducing hyperpigmentation and improving the skin's overall appearance. By combining these home-care recommendations improvement and results in appearance will occur faster.

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