How to Use Retinol for Hyperpigmentation
What is retinol?
Retinol, like other topical retinoids, is a vitamin A derivative added to skincare products. It works by penetrating deeper layers of skin to promote skin cell turnover and collagen production. By promoting these skin functions, retinol has a number of skin benefits, helping with skin concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, skin texture and, of course, certain types of hyperpigmentation.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term that describes skin that appears darker. Melanin, the skin cells responsible for skin pigment, accumulates in certain areas of the skin, manifesting as brown patches, marks and uneven skin tone, in various shapes and sizes. Common forms of hyperpigmentation include sun spots (or age spots) and post blemish marks.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Just as the types of hyperpigmentation vary, the causes vary: it can be triggered by hormonal changes, prolonged sun exposure, pimples, or be genetic. Your complexion and skin tone will also influence hyperpigmentation.
How does retinol help hyperpigmentation?
Skin pigmentation can either manifest on the epidermis (the surface layers of skin) or in the dermis (the deeper layers of skin), and is caused by an accumulation of melanin (the skin cells responsible for pigment). Retinol can help with both surface level and deeper forms of hyperpigmentation by:
- Speeding up skin cell renewal to remove superficial forms of hyperpigmentation.
- Inhibiting tyrosinase that’s responsible for the production of melanin.
- Minimising breakouts to reduce the risk of post-blemish marks.
- Also managing skin irritation and redness that causes post-blemish marks.
- Minimising the accumulation of pigmented cells that cause hyperpigmentation to darken.
What retinol is best for hyperpigmentation?
The best retinol for hyperpigmentation will depend on the type and cause. Serums have a more concentrated formula that absorb faster and can penetrate deeper in the skin. This can help with deep-set hyperpigmentation like age spots. More surface level hyperpigmentation, like post-blemish marks and dark marks, can benefit from a lower concentration or a retinol cream or moisturiser. Of course, this depends on your skin type and the rest of your skincare routine.
Can retinol prevent hyperpigmentation?
Retinol and topical retinoids help visibly reduce existing hyperpigmentation and prevent them from getting darker. It can also prevent the formation of post-blemish as it helps decrease pimples. That being said, it won’t directly prevent hyperpigmentation.
Retinol skincare routine for hyperpigmentation
Because retinol increases the skin's sensitivity to sun exposure, it's best to add it to your nighttime routine. If you’re wanting to add retinol to your routine, here's a simple retinol skincare routine we recommend:
1. Cleanser
For your evening routine, start by cleansing the skin of impurities and makeup with the Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser. For blemish-prone, oily skin, try instead the Blemish Control Cleanser to gently remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
2. Retinol serum
Apply the Resurfacing Retinol Serum, using 3-4 drops over the face and neck. Beginner retinol users should gradually introduce the product to their routine before increasing to daily use.
3. Hydrating serum
Balance out retinol’s skin-drying effects with the Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum. This will help strengthen the skin moisture barrier and support a smoother skin texture.
4. Night cream
Lastly, always end your routine with a cream or moisturiser. For your evening routine, seal in moisture with the Skin Renewing Night Cream, supporting your skin’s overnight restorative process.