Treating Hyperpigmentation: Do's and Don'ts

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is in essence inflammation and is a sign that “something is off.” It is the darkening of skin caused by increased melanin. Causes of abnormal melanin production include hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause), certain drugs and supplements, blunt trauma, hyperthyroidism, Addison’s disease, diabetes, laser trauma, chemical peeling, and increased sun exposure/photo trauma.

How is Hyperpigmentation commonly treated? (The DONT'S):

• Hydroquinone: A chemical originally used to develop black and white photos and x-rays, as well as to preserve rubber goods. The side effects of hydroquinone use include eczema, inflammation, psoriasis, asthma, birth defects and a condition called Exogenous Ochronosis which causes skin to produce blue and black pigment.
• Kojic Acid: From a fungus, it has been shown to cause dermatitis and cell mutations (i.e. cancer) in mammals. It is toxic to the liver, kidney, and reproductive organs.
• Retinoids: A chemical compound that becomes toxic when exposed to sunlight.

***Remember, products you put on your skin will either sit on top (be ineffective) or be absorbed (be effective but potentially systemically toxic).

How does DNA Health Institute treat Hyperpigmentation? (The DO'S):

At DNA we capitalize on inhibiting and regulating melanin while supplying the skin the natural constituents it needs: DNA, RNA, amino acids, peptides, tyrosinase inhibitor, lipids, enzymes, etc. We offer a variety of products to regulate melanin production and protect the skin. They are:

Skin Lightening Line
We don’t just inhibit pigment, we regulate it with our Skin Lightening line incorporating ferulic acid (a powerful antioxidant), white tea, walthera indica extract, AHA acids, and other powerful antioxidants. These 100% natural, herbal products have shown that lighter and brighter skin can be achieved without the use of other potentially harmful lightening and bleaching ingredients.

Derma-CLR
We also offer an oral product that helps lighten the skin: Derma-CLR. It is a supplement taken orally that is an effective antioxidant that maintains skin’s elasticity and healthy color. It contains a pure form of L-glutathione. It helps to lighten the skin’s hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and diminishing the signs of aging (wrinkles, age spots, increased pore size, dryness, etc.).

Vitamin C
The amount of Vitamin C we need internally and topically increases with age.  We make less reconstructive enzymes as we age, increasing the need to repair cells in other ways. Epidermal levels of Vit. C diminish 425% by middle age. Our topical Vitamin C is the most active and stable Vit. C available. It can be cocktailed with any product in the skin care line to instantly turn that product into a powerful antioxidant. When taking Vitamin C internally, be sure it is of high quality. We recommend Esther C.

Sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens generate more free radicals on human skin after one hour of sun exposure than are generated on untreated skin.  In essence, by wearing a chemical sunscreen, skin is twice as compromised.  Any antioxidants added to a toxic mesh of chemicals become pro-oxidant, meaning they cause DNA damage to skin. Our sunscreen is chemical free.

Call (805) 380-7737 or email ibarbeauty@gmail.com for more information or to schedule an appointment!

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