PUT IT INTO PRACTICE: SKIN BRIGHTENING

HYPERPIGMENTATION: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Hyperpigmentation is a widespread condition that occurs when the skin produces too much melanin, resulting in dark spots or patches. It can be caused by intrinsic factors such as genetic predisposition, vitamin deficiency and hormonal changes, or extrinsic factors such as UV exposure, pollution and smoking. It can also be a result of skin trauma or inflammation.

Hyperpigmentation can appear on the skin in many forms. The most common types include:

• Melasma: This type of hyperpigmentation is typically caused by a hormonal imbalance but can also occur from pregnancy, thyroid diseases and stress. It's frequently seen on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and chin and appears as larger patches with irregular borders.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): As the name suggests, this purple-brown colored hyperpigmentation occurs after an injury or inflammation. It can also be caused by acne, eczema, psoriasis or any other skin trauma.
• Age Spots/Lentigines: There are many different names for this type of hyperpigmentation caused by prolonged UVA exposure. They can appear anywhere on the body and are usually smaller than melasma or PIH.
• Freckles: Freckles are a type of hyperpigmentation that is genetically determined and usually occur on areas of the body that are more prone to sun exposure, such as the face, arms and chest.

THE MECHANISM OF SKIN BRIGHTENING

Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes. When exposed to triggering factors, these cells overproduce melanin, resulting in hyperpigmentation.

Skin brightening targets these overactive melanocytes by inhibiting their activity with targeted ingredients. These ingredients block the enzymes responsible for melanin production. They also eliminate pre-existing hyperpigmentation by accelerating cell turnover and promoting the shedding or exfoliation of dead skin cells. This reveals fresh, brighter and even-toned skin cells underneath.

USE THESE KEY INGREDIENTS TO ACHIEVE BRIGHTER SKIN

While hyperpigmentation may not always be harmful to your client's health, it can have a significant impact on self-esteem and confidence. As skincare professionals, you have the power to offer clients advanced brightening products to boost their confidence. Key brightening ingredients include:

TYROSINASE INHIBITORS

Tyrosinase is the primary enzyme responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin. You can effectively reduce the overproduction of melanin by inhibiting this enzyme. Some common Tyrosinase Inhibitors include:

• Hydroquinone
• Vitamin C
• Arbutin
• Kojic Acid
• Glycolic Acid
• Lactic Acid
• Mulberry 
• Licorice
• Bearberry

EXFOLIANTS

Exfoliants remove the top layer of dead skin cells to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. They also accelerate cell turnover and promote the shedding of pigmented cells. Some effective exfoliants include:

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
• Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)
• Retinoids
• Enzymes
• Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)

BARRIER SUPPORT

Barrier-supportive ingredients can protect and strengthen the skin's natural barrier, which is responsible for maintaining moisture and protecting against environmental stressors. A healthy skin barrier also helps to prevent inflammation and the formation of PIH. Look for products with:

• Ceramides
• Niacinamide
• Hyaluronic Acid

THE BEST IN-CLINIC TREATMENTS AND PROCEDURES

In-clinic treatments and procedures can provide your clients with immediate and visible results. They're also a great way to boost the effectiveness of at-home skincare products.

Start by incorporating chemical peels into your treatment menu. Our Professional 5-Berry Solution with 7% TCA is a highly effective resurfacing treatment that brightens skin while promoting cell turnover. Or, use our Professional Pigment Lift Solution with 15% TCA to target stubborn hyperpigmentation. Each of these chemical treatments can be applied to any Fitzpatrick skin type.

You can also offer microneedling treatments, which break down melanin clusters and stimulate collagen production. Another popular in-clinic treatment for hyperpigmentation is laser therapy, which targets pigmented areas and breaks down melanin clusters. While laser therapy isn’t recommended for melasma, it can be helpful for other types of hyperpigmentation.

Skin brightening is a highly sought service among clients, so it's important to keep up-to-date with new and advanced treatments.

AT-HOME SKIN BRIGHTENING RECOMMENDATIONS

At-home skincare is just as important as in-clinic treatments to achieving and maintaining a brighter complexion. Advise your clients to follow these professional tips to maximize the results of their treatments:

1. ESTABLISH A DAILY SKINCARE ROUTINE

Clients should follow our four-step daily skincare routine to effectively target and prevent hyperpigmentation: Cleanse, Treat, Balance and Protect.

It's especially important to focus on treatment serums to help inhibit melanin production and promote cell turnover. Our Brilliant Tone night serum combines the majority of the Tyrosinase Inhibitors mentioned above for incredible brightening results and is a great option for moderate to advanced hyperpigmentation.

For daily maintenance and protection from environmental stressors, recommend Daily Skin Clarifier. With antioxidant-rich ingredients like Licorice Extract and Green Tea Extract, your client's skin will stay bright and balanced.

2. APPLY PRODUCTS EFFECTIVELY

To maximize the benefits of brightening products, guide your clients with these essential application tips:

• Consistency Is Key: Encourage clients to apply brightening products consistently as part of their daily routine, preferably after cleansing and before moisturizing.
• Layering for Effectiveness: Advise your clients to start with lighter serums and build up to thicker creams, ensuring each layer has time to absorb for better penetration. For example, Pigment Brightening Serum is a lightweight formula that fades pre-existing hyperpigmentation and can be followed by a second serum or moisturizer for extra nourishment.
• Pat, Don’t Rub: Suggest patting the products onto the skin instead of rubbing them as this can help prevent irritation and sensitivity.

3. CONSIDER LIFESTYLE FACTORS

It's essential to remind clients that lifestyle factors can also impact the health and appearance of their skin. Encourage them to limit sun exposure, wear sunscreen daily and maintain a healthy lifestyle that reduces stress and incorporates a balanced diet. You can even recommend
Hydrating Protection Gel with SPF 30, a broad-spectrum product packed with antioxidants to combat free radical damage.

Skin brightening is not an overnight process and requires a consistent routine and patience. Empower yourself and your practice to achieve the best results by becoming a GlyMed Pro. We offer an extensive array of classes and webinars crafted by aesthetics experts to elevate your skills and knowledge. Plus, you'll gain exclusive access to a comprehensive line of pharmaceutical-grade products at the forefront of skin science and innovation.

Transform the way you approach skincare and enhance your professional journey with GlyMed Plus.