How to Manage Hyperpigmentation in Delhi’s Harsh Weather: Your Clear Skin Guide

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that causes dark patches to appear on the skin. It occurs due to excessive melanin production. Melanin is the brown pigment that gives the skin its colour. Various reasons contribute to hyperpigmentation, such as sun exposure, medications, melasma, inflammation, hormonal fluctuations, etc.

Why Hyperpigmentation Is a Common Concern In Delhi?

Extreme climate variations and poor air quality are among the biggest culprits for hyperpigmentation, a common concern in Delhi. Such weather conditions can also lead to acne breakouts, skin allergies, skin burns, and scars.

How Does Delhi Weather Contribute to Hyperpigmentation?

Let us understand how pollution and skin damage in Delhi is a cause of burning concern:

Intense and prolonged exposure to UV rays results in hyperpigmentation, as it triggers the melanocytes to produce more melanin. [1] The increased melanin production is the body’s protective response to UV radiation. So, if you are wondering how to prevent skin pigmentation in Delhi, try to limit your exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays. Hyperpigmentation due to sun exposure is particularly common in areas like the face, hands and neck.

Environmentally persistent free radicals ( EPFRs), such as pollutants, induce oxidative stress in biological systems when inhaled. This oxidative stress increases melanin production, resulting in hyperpigmentation. Various studies have particularly highlighted the link between traffic-related pollution like Diesel Exhaust Particles (DEP) and increased signs of hyperpigmentation. [2]

Excessive heat can stimulate the activity of melanocytes, resulting in increased melanin production. That is why hyperpigmentation is particularly common during summer. Heat and humidity also increase sweat and clogged pores, which lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. [3] There is also no respite from hyperpigmentation in winter. Dryness and dehydration compromise the skin’s natural barrier during winter, leading to inflammation and hyperpigmentation. [4]

Hard water can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier by leaving mineral residue on the skin. This mineral residue can lead to skin irritation, causing inflammation and triggering melanin production.

Day & Night Skincare Routine for Hyperpigmentation in Delhi

One prominent question every resident of Delhi asks is how to prevent skin pigmentation in Delhi. Well, here is the best skincare routine for Delhi weather:

Use a gentle soap-free cleanser to remove pollution, sweat and excess oil from your skin without disturbing the moisture balance of the skin. Don’t forget to use a face serum enriched with vitamin C or niacinamide. This step is essential to brighten the skin and protect it from environmental damage. Apply a lightweight moisturiser that nourishes the skin without making it too greasy. Now, the most crucial step is to shield your skin with a powerful sunscreen against UV damage. Use a sunscreen with SPF 50+ to protect it against UV rays that cause hyperpigmentation.

After a hectic and stressful day, your skin needs as much pampering as you do. Double-cleanse your face with a gentle, soap-free, and fragrance-free cleaner. Apply a vitamin C or retinol serum. Vitamin C can help fade away hyperpigmentation marks, and retinol can help fight dark spots. Use a moisturiser to massage areas around your jawline, forehead, cheeks and neck.

Wear a face mask or a scarf around your face while travelling to shield your skin from pollution. Carry your sunscreen in your bag and reapply it after every 3-4 hours to avoid sun damage. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Home Remedies Using Natural Ingredients Available In Delhi

Here are some best remedies for sunspots in Delhi that you can try at home:

Aloe vera contains a compound called aloin, which helps fight pigmentation, and turmeric contains anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, a night mask with the dual goodness of aloe vera and turmeric is the perfect remedy for hyperpigmentation.

How to use:

Mix 1 tablespoon of freshly extracted aloe vera gel with a pinch of turmeric powder. Generously apply it to the face and leave it overnight.

When to use:

Use this night mask daily for best results.

Thanks to lemon’s Vitamin C content and honey’s soothing properties, a honey and lemon mask is the perfect answer for hyperpigmentation.

How to use:

Mix two tablespoons of honey and a few drops of lemon juice in a bowl and blend well. Apply evenly to your face, leave for 15-20 minutes, and then wash with lukewarm water.

When to use:

Use daily for best results.

Dermatological Treatments Available In Delhi For Hyperpigmentation

It is essential to consult a dermatologist to go for the right kind of treatment. Here are some treatment options.

Laser toning is a non-invasive procedure where the dermatologist uses low-frequency laser emissions to target the dermis, the layer of skin beneath the epidermis. The heat from the laser breaks down the melanin, which subsequently gets flushed away by the body’s immune system. This process helps get rid of excess melanin, boosts collagen production and improves skin colour and texture.

Chemical peels remove the top layer of your skin, called the epidermis. This helps in reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Some peels can penetrate the middle layer, called the dermis, and reveal more effective results. Glycolic acid peels and salicylic acid peels are the popular ones used for hyperpigmentation treatment in Delhi.

Topical medications, such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide inhibit melanin production, further helping you in managing hyperpigmentation in extreme climates.

Takeaway

Hyperpigmentation is a common issue, and there is nothing to stress about. You can get rid of hyperpigmentation with a suitable skincare routine and the best dermatological treatment. For the best pigmentation treatment in Delhi, visit your nearest Oliva clinic now.