What causes pigmentation?
At its simplest, pigmentation is caused by a release of melanin, which is what gives our skin colour. That release can be caused by a number of different factors, depending on the specific kind of pigmentation you suffer from. Post-inflammatory hyper pigmentation is caused by trauma to the skin, such as popping a pimple. Pigmentation in the form of age spots can simply develop over time, while sun spots occur from overexposure to UV rays.
Natural face masks and scrubs to treat pigmentation
Andalou Naturals Brightening Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask
One of my favourite masks to help brighten overall skin tone is the Andalou Naturals Brightening Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask. This smoothing mask uses the exfoliating powers of natural fruit acids from Pumpkin Puree and AHAs to help dissolve and remove dead skin cells, fade dark spots and leave your skin fresh, bright and toned. Apply for 10-20 minutes once weekly.
Acure Brightening Facial Scrub
The Acure Brightening Facial Scrub is perfect for buffing away dry skin cells thanks to active ingredients such as Sea Kelp, Chlorella, Walnut Shell Flour, French Green Clay and Lemon Peel Granules, which work to brighten pigmentation and stimulate skin cell regeneration. Antioxidant rich Acai, Pomegranate and Rosehip also help to lighten and fade dark spots, while soothing Calendula and Chamomile smooth and soften skin. Use up to three times per week for best results.
Andalou Naturals Chia Omega + C Radiant Skin Polish
With naturally exfoliating Chia Seeds and Walnut Powder, the Andalou Naturals Chia Omega + C Radiant Skin Polish micro-polishes the complexion to refresh skin and even tone. With brightening Vitamin C and Turmeric, this stimulating scrub can be massaged into the face and neck, and is Vegan and Gluten Free.
The Beauty Chef Probiotic Skin Refiner
One of my all time favourite products and a bestseller is The Beauty Chef Probiotic Skin Refiner. It contains Probiotics and Lactic Acid, a natural AHA which works to lighten skin spots and pigmentation. It also buffs away dry skin while boosting collagen production and rehydrating the skin, improving texture and helping to improve any UV damage. To use, apply to a cotton pad and pat onto skin after cleansing, like a toner, and follow with your favourite moisturiser.
Best natural oils and moisturisers for pigmentation
Life Basics Cacay Oil
The Life Basics Cacay Oil actually contains up to three times more Vitamin A than Rosehip Oil and up to 50% more Vitamin E than Argan Oil, making it perfect for brightening pigmentation as well as smoothing, firming and hydrating the skin. Ideal for use on both the face and body, this conditioning oil is also rich in essential fatty acids to encourage skin repair and help fade marks and scars.
100% Pure Multi-Vitamin + Antioxidants Ultra Riche PM Treatment
The 100% Pure Multi-Vitamin + Antioxidants Ultra Riche PM Treatment works its magic overnight thanks to soothing Aloe Vera, Rosehip Oil, Green Tea and antioxidant Vitamins A, C and E and CoQ10. Rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids and potent anti-ageing ingredients, it's perfect for treating sun damaged skin, promoting even skin tone as well as plumping the skin to smooth those fine lines. Apply at night after cleansing and allow to sink in.
ECO. Face Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is a well known pigmentation fighter, and I just love the ECO. Face Vitamin C Serum. This revitalising serum combines the brightening properties of Vitamin C with nourishing Rosehip Oil, Milk Thistle and Sea Buckthorn which all work to help even skin tone and promote cell turnover.