PREVENT
1. ANTIOXIDANTS
Load up on bright, colourful, antioxidant-rich foods like berries, grapes, leafy greens and dark chocolate (Yes!). Antioxidants prevent pigmentation before it occurs by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. (Wellness by Oriflame Swedish Beauty Complex Plus)
2. BALANCE HORMONES
Pregnancy, the pill or heavy stress can cause hormonal fluctuations and imbalances which make you more susceptible to developing pigmentation. A diet including fresh vegetables and healthy fats as well as daily exercise decreases oestrogen levels, which in turn reduces melanin production. Lower melanin production = less pigmentation!
3. AVOID SUN EXPOSURE
You’ve heard this before, but we can’t stress enough how important it is to avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent future pigmentation and premature aging! If you can’t resist basking in the summer sun (we don’t blame you!) use a high performing and moisturizing SPF that you reapply during the day.
TREAT
1. EXFOLIATE
Exfoliation deeply cleanses the skin and minimises breakouts, but did you know that it also aids in removing pigmentation? An exfoliator containing glycolic or lactic acid sloughs off the outer layer of skin cells, including the darker skin cells (pigmentation) to reveal fresh new skin underneath.
2. EVEN OUT
We reach for vitamin C when hit by a cold, but this juicy vitamin is also essential for fighting skin pigmentation. A vitamin C serum evens out your skin tone by inhibiting melanin production and aiding regeneration which over time reduces pigmentation.
3. BRIGHTEN
A brightening product (NovAge Bright Sublime Advanced Brightening Day Cream SPF 20) that contains substances which prevent melanin from forming will give you the bright, ‘glowy’ complexion you’re missing, and make dark spots less visible over time. Remember to always use a good SPF in combination with your brightening product, if not in the product already, since it can make your skin sensitive to sun exposure.