Understanding and Managing Skin Discolouration on the Face: Causes, Treatments and Prevention

Skin discolouration can undermine self-confidence, especially when you do not know the cause of the issue. Two of the most common types of discolouration are photodamage due to sun exposure and melasma caused by hormonal fluctuations. Understanding the root causes of discolouration can point you towards the most effective treatments and preventive measures. Learn what can cause skin discolouration and how to reduce the visibility of hyperpigmentation.

Types of Skin Discolouration

Age spots and freckles are two of the most common types of skin discolouration. Sun damage is the main cause of both of these conditions. Brown patches on facial skin can be a sign of melasma, which is a hormone-related skin condition. You can reduce the appearance of all of these types of skin discolouration with topical treatments, such as azelaic acid skincare. Azelaic acid inhibits the production of tyrosinase to decrease melanin synthesis, which is the underlying cause of most skin discolouration.

Pigmented or vascular birthmarks and moles are other common types of skin discolouration. A dermatologist can provide a professional opinion about treating or removing these types of discolouration. Sun exposure contributes towards most types of hyperpigmentation, even if photodamage is not the only cause of discolouration. Wearing sunscreen and using sun protection can limit the appearance of age spots, freckles, or dark patches of melasma.

Skin Care and Topical Treatments

Specialized topical treatments can reduce the visibility of several types of skin discolouration. One of the most popular treatments for discolouration is niacinamide lotion. This form of topical vitamin B3 can shrink large pores, even out skin tone, brighten skin and minimize fine lines and wrinkles. Niacinamide works to restore existing damage while also strengthening the outer layer of the skin barrier to prevent further damage. 

In addition to azelaic acid and niacinamide, many skin care experts also recommend a daily topical application of vitamin C to discoloured skin. When applied topically, vitamin C inhibits the synthesis of melanin-like azelaic acid. Even though these ingredients are very effective, it can take weeks or months to see the results of topical treatments alone. Taking internal supplements alongside a topical skincare routine can noticeably reduce the appearance of skin discolouration more quickly.

Supplements for Pigmentation

A supplement that contains vitamins and compounds that support healthy skin can reinforce the effects of topical skin care treatments for hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C works internally and externally, and vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant when applied externally or taken in one of the best hair supplements or skin supplements. Other ingredients such as alpha lipoic acid, ginkgo leaf and an extract of the antioxidant-rich Polypodium leucotomos plant support a skincare routine that reduces discolouration.

Topical formulas such as niacinamide and vitamin C are effective daily treatments to reduce the appearance of discolouration. A supplement that provides nutritional support can increase the effectiveness of external treatments. Shielding skin from excessive sun exposure is the most effective method for preventing hyperpigmentation. A combined external and internal approach is the most effective way to reduce the appearance of existing facial skin discolouration.