Stain Types and Anti-Stain Actives

Skin Blemishes: Why Do They Occur and How Can They Be Treated?

Blemishes are a common problem for many people and can appear suddenly and remain on the skin for years. So, where do these spots come from? Let's examine them together.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

The appearance of some areas of the skin as darker than other areas due to excess melanin production is called "hyperpigmentation" or generally known as "spot". This condition can occur for various reasons such as genetic factors, hormonal changes or acne. However, the mechanisms of spot formation are generally similar.

What is Melanin?

Melanin is a pigment that gives color to the skin. It is produced by melanocyte cells located in the epidermis layer of the skin. UV rays from the sun are the biggest factor that triggers melanin production. If your skin is prone to spots or if there is an underlying cause, spots can appear in a short time. Melanin synthesis occurs through an enzyme called tyrosinase, and most stain remover active ingredients act on this enzyme.

Types of Stains

Melasma

It is a type of hyperpigmentation that occurs as a result of pregnancy, birth control pills or hormonal changes. It usually appears as large and irregular patches.

Age Spots

These are spots that appear due to long-term sun exposure, not using regular sunscreen, and aging. They usually appear as round, brown tones and uneven skin tone.

Acne Spots

Post-acne spots are divided into two groups:

• PIE (Post Inflammatory Erythema): Red spots caused by the dilation of capillaries as a result of inflammation and trauma. They become more visible as the skin barrier weakens.

• PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation): Brown spots that occur as a result of excessive melanin production due to the skin's natural response to inflammation. They become more noticeable with sun exposure.

Anti-Stain Ingredients and Their Mechanisms of Action

Anti-blemish ingredients work by blocking the blemish formation mechanisms at different points. Let's examine the effects of some ingredients proven by clinical studies on melanin synthesis and how they work below:

To summarize;

• Those That Reduce Melanin Production: Ingredients such as Arbutin and Kojic Acid, which suppress the tyrosinase enzyme, are in this category.

• Cellular Regeneration Supporters: Retinoids and vitamin C speed up cell turnover, reducing the appearance of blemishes.

• Antioxidants: They help prevent hyperpigmentation by reducing skin damage.

Different ingredients can provide stronger results when used together, providing a synergistic effect. Scientific research shows that stain-removing actives are more effective when used in combination.

How Long Does It Take For Stains to Go Away?

Hyperpigmentation takes time to improve and requires at least 3 months of regular use to see visible results. Clinical studies are typically 12 weeks long.

In addition, sunscreen should not be neglected to prevent new spots from forming. While spot treatment continues, sun protection is a critical step in maintaining skin health.

Sources:

NA Vashi, RV. Kundu. Facial hyperpigmentation: causes and treatment. British Journal of Dermatology. 2013;169(Suppl. 3):41–56.

Galappatthy P., Rathnayake D. Depigmenting Agents. In: Kumarasinghe P. (eds) Pigmentary Skin Disorders. Updates in Clinical Dermatology. 2018 Springer, Cham.

Hollinger JC, Angra K, Halder RM. Are Natural Ingredients Effective in the Management of Hyperpigmentation? A Systematic Review. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol . 2018;11(2):28-37.

Shankar K, Godse K, Aurangabadkar S, et al. Evidence-based treatment for melasma: expert opinion and a review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) . 2014;4(2):165-186.

Kim H, Choi HR, Kim DS, Park KC. Topical hypopigmenting agents for pigmentary disorders and their mechanisms of action. Ann Dermatol . 2012;24(1):1-6.