Introduction:

Hyperpigmentation can be a persistent and frustrating skin condition to manage, especially for someone like me with fair skin. I tried everything from home remedies to over-the-counter products, but nothing seemed to work—until I found the right approach.Here’s my hyperpigmentation journey, including what worked, what didn’t, and how I finally saw results.

The Beginning: A Journey of Trial and Error

My chin was the darkest part of my face, and the contrast against my fair skin made it hard not to notice. I tried everything except seeing a dermatologist—I know, what was I thinking? From physical exfoliators to home remedies like lemon juice and turmeric, I gave it all a shot. Scrubbing my skin in front of the mirror, I was convinced that I could erase those dark patches. In hindsight, it only made things worse. Irritating the skin increases the risk of melasma progression, a fact I wish I had known earlier.

The Trigger: How IPL Hair Removal Made Things Worse

The progression of melasma on my skin was largely my own doing, but the initial trigger wasn’t. After undergoing IPL hair removal a decade ago, I started noticing these dark patches. Unbeknownst to me at the time, fair-skinned individuals like myself are at a higher risk of developing melasma after laser treatments. Ironically, a decade later, a different type of laser would end up lightening my hyperpigmentation.

Feeling Hopeless: The Emotional Impact of Hyperpigmentation

After trying countless products and remedies with no success, I felt hopeless. I would hide my face behind my hair or a dupatta, avoiding social situations whenever I could. The only solution I was offered was another laser treatment, but after my previous experience, I was too scared to go through with it. The thought of more pain, coupled with the lack of results, kept me from taking that step.

Finally Consulting a Dermatologist: The Game Changer for my hyperpigmentation journey

By the end of 2019, I finally decided to consult a dermatologist. She recommended using retinol, but I was hesitant. The stigma around retinol—purging, pilling, and mixed opinions—kept me from trying it immediately. It wasn’t until a year later, after discovering Dr. Shereene Idriss and Dr. Vanita Rattan on YouTube, that I found a clear path forward.

Learning from Experts: Building My New Skincare Routine

Dr. Shereene Idriss provided me with the knowledge I needed about specific actives, while Dr. Vanita Rattan guided me on the right products, especially since we both have brown skin. Their advice was a turning point in my personal hyperpigmentation journey.

Morning Routine:

• Cleanser: I started with a gentle face wash.

• Actives: Initially, I tried The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid, Vitamin C, and Niacinamide. However, these products irritated my skin, causing tingling, itching, and breakouts, so I switched to a simpler routine.

• Simplified Routine: I began using a cleanser, moisturiser, and Vitamin E serum daily, which was much gentler on my skin.

Evening Routine:

• Cleanser: I washed my face with a gentle cleanser.

• Toner: Applied rosewater on my damp face as a toner.

• Actives: Alternated between Azelaic Acid with Alpha Arbutin one night and Azelaic Acid with Granactive Retinol the next.

• Moisturiser: Sealed everything with a good moisturiser to keep my skin hydrated.

Exploring Hydroquinone and Switching to Alpha Arbutin During my hyperpigmentation journey

At one point, my dermatologist prescribed hydroquinone, a powerful treatment for hyperpigmentation. I used it for about three months, but after reading about its potential side effects, including the risk of skin cancer, I decided to stop. Though it lightened my skin slightly, it wasn’t the miracle cure I hoped for. Instead, I discovered Alpha Arbutin, a naturally derived, safer alternative to hydroquinone. Within six months of consistent use, I started seeing noticeable improvements. My skin continued to brighten over the next year or two, and I was thrilled with the results.

Taking Another Risk: Laser Hair Removal Revisited

Last year, I decided to try laser hair removal again. Despite my fears and previous experience, I took the plunge, armed with the knowledge and precautions I had gained. This time, the new type of laser I used actually lightened my melasma further. I was meticulous about using sunscreen and covering my chin from the sun, and I paused the use of active ingredients during the treatment—although that wasn’t strictly necessary, I was paranoid!

Conclusion: The Light at the End of a Decade-Long Tunnel

My hyperpigmentation journey has spanned over a decade. It started 10 years ago with an IPL hair removal treatment that triggered my melasma, and for years, I struggled to find a solution. It wasn’t until 2020 that I finally discovered a routine and products that worked for me. Although my skin hasn’t completely returned to its normal tone, the hyperpigmentation is now so light that you can barely see it. This journey has taught me the importance of patience, research, and listening to my skin. For anyone struggling with hyperpigmentation, remember that it’s a marathon, not a sprint. With the right guidance and consistency, you can see the results you’re hoping for.