PCOS AND HYPERPIGMENTATION.
Hello Cyster!
How are you doing? In one of our previous posts, we talked about acanthosis nigricans and acne. In this one, we would be discussing hyperpigmentation. So let's dive in.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a condition that darkens some areas of the skin, such as the face, neck, knees etc. The pigment, melanin, which gives the skin its colour, can produce too much of itself in some areas of the body, making those areas darker.
Hyperpigmentation can be influenced by a number of factors, such as sun damage brought on by constant unprotected exposure to the sun, hormonal changes brought on by pregnancy, puberty or PCOS, insulin resistance (also associated with PCOS), and medications such as birth control pills.
Hyperpigmentation can lead to feelings of insecurity, self-consciousness and a lack of confidence.
Getting rid of Hyperpigmentation.
On YouTube, there are various home remedy techniques for removing hyperpigmentation. Some techniques suggest removing hyperpigmentation using vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and so on. While these homemade techniques might work for some people, they did not work for me, so please let us know in the comment section if any of them worked for you.
Skin bleach is something else some people consider using to get rid of hyperpigmentation, but it is not advisable. Bleaching may reduce hyperpigmentation, but the disadvantages outweigh the advantages. Skin bleach has a component called hydroquinone which according to scientists may cause cancer, dermatitis and mercury poisoning.
Besides, skin bleaching is only a temporary fix, that stops the moment the lotions are no longer applied.
What We Recommend To Treat Hyperpigmentation
Hormonal Balancing: The first thing step to treating Hyperpigmentation is keeping your hormones in check. Hormonal changes or insulin resistance might be the reason cysters develop hyperpigmentation in the first place, so having your hormones under control might help get rid of Hyperpigmentation. You can achieve this through a healthy diet, adequate sleep, moderate exercise and taking the right supplements for you.
Develop a Sustainable Skincare Routine: According to research, including skin care products containing azelaic acid, vitamin C, tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid into your routine can aid in reducing hyperpigmentation and dark patches. Most importantly, what’s a hyperpigmentation treatment without sunscreen? You have to make sunscreen your best friend!
Consider Laser Treatment and Chemical Peels: Other procedures like laser treatment and chemical peels have also been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation significantly.
However, it's crucial to always seek medical advice from a doctor or dermatologist before indulging in any of these procedures. You may also visit an esthetician before purchasing any skincare product. Treating hyperpigmentation is a marathon, not a race, so be patient and try to enjoy the process.
Research in PCOS is still emerging, and there’s not a lot of scientific data about the condition. This is why cysters have to do a lot of trial and error in order to figure out what works for them.
Our community, the Cyster Salon, consists of supportive Cysters who are always willing to share tips on how to manage PCOS and its symptoms. So join our community using this link!
Please let us know in the comments what has helped you in getting rid of your hyperpigmentation, we will love to hear from you! ❤️🤗
