YOU (South Africa)

BEWARE THE SUN

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Hyperpigme­ntation is complex and occurs deep within the skin so it can be difficult to treat. It’s important to have an understand­ing of what type of hyperpigme­ntation you have so you can use targeted prevention and treatments.

Having said that, there are a few universal practices that could help keep mild to moderate hyperpigme­ntation at bay and the first is prevention. It’s crucial to protect yourself from the sun.

“There is no question that the sun stimulates more melanin production, so no treatment will be effective unless the sun is taken out of the equation,” says Nancy Samolitis, a board-certified dermatolog­ist in California.

The sun is not only one of the most common causes of all forms of hyperpigme­ntation, it’s also the main reason it stays and returns.

If you’re not applying sun protection all year round, discolorat­ion is unlikely to improve or will most likely return after treatment. When choosing a formula, look for a combo of mineraland chemical-blocking agents such as titanium dioxide to provide broadspect­rum protection.

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