If you’ve started noticing that your face is darker than your body, then you’re not alone. This is a common concern that I frequently hear as a skincare therapist, especially among people of colour. I’m going to delve into what causes this pigmentation in the skin.
Primarily, the sun is the likely culprit for your face being darker than your body. This is because your face is exposed to the sun, while your body is typically covered by clothes. Consequently, the heat produced by the sun causes inflammation when it touches your skin, leading to an overproduction of melanin, which results in pigmentation.
The skin’s ability to produce melanin is particularly efficient in darker skin tones, so any form of skin inflammation leads to a rapid production of melanin. In this post, I will address several factors that can trigger inflammation in the skin.
Pigmentation - The sun 
As I was growing up, my family never used sunscreen because we didn't burn in the sun, so we didn't think it was necessary. However, even though people of colour, especially those with darker complexions, are less likely to burn in the sun, it still causes damage to our skin and can lead to pigmentation issues. This sun damage may not become apparent until your 30s or 40s, so it's crucial to start using sunscreen from a young age.
Pigmentation - Oiliness
Oily skin tends to produce a significant amount of oil, which in turn traps heat within the skin. This heat, whether from sun exposure or daily activities, can instigate inflammation, subsequently prompting an increase in melanin production and leading to pigmentation. To address this, it's essential to reduce oil production by utilizing products that minimize oil and enhance skin brightness.
Pigmentation – Sensitive skin
You may either have naturally sensitive skin or develop sensitization due to environmental or internal factors. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis can cause inflammation, leading to darker areas once the skin heals. Sensitivity can also be triggered by allergies, stress, harsh products, and medication, ultimately resulting in pigmentation. Prioritizing the treatment of skin sensitivity is essential before addressing pigmentation concerns.
How To Get Over A Skin Setback
Pigmentation - Chronic Stress
Chronic stress can lead to inflammation in the body. Given that our skin is the largest organ, it reflects everything that is happening within us. Consequently, when inflammation increases internally, it also becomes visible on the skin. To effectively manage stress, it is important to practice relaxation techniques, maintain a healthy diet, and engage in regular exercise.
Pigmentation – Medication
Certain medications contain ingredients that may accumulate under the skin, leading to discolouration. Additionally, some medication ingredients can react with substances in the skin, causing pigmentation and increased sensitivity to light. Consequently, individuals with sensitive skin are more prone to sunburn and sun damage. Daily use of sunscreen is essential to protect the skin while continuing the prescribed medication regimen.
In conclusion, pigmentation is often the result of inflammation, which can be triggered by a variety of factors such as sun exposure, oily or sensitive skin types, chronic stress, and certain medications. Finding out what has triggered the inflammation in your skin will help determine what the best course of treatment is. A combination of home treatment products and professional treatments will yield the best results.
Don’t forget to Download your free guide with the various treatments for pigmentation.
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Question of the week!! Is your face darker than your body and how have you tried to treat it? Leave a comment below & join the conversation. I can’t wait to hear from you!!