Top nutrients and vitamins to prevent skin hyperpigmentation

Top nutrients and vitamins to prevent skin hyperpigmentation

Skin hyperpigmentation occurs due to the overproduction of melanin in parts of the skin, leading to the formation of patches. These patches of hyper pigmentation are not life-threatening, and thus science paid little attention to their cause and treatment.

Nonetheless, they are a significant aesthetic problem, affecting almost half of the global population sometimes in their life. However, some people are more prone to the condition. Additionally, these patches of hyperpigmentation are more visible on white skin.

Though hyperpigmentation may not be life-threatening, it does result in low self-esteem and emotional disorders. Further, it indicates some imbalances in the body. These could be hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies.

Causes of hyperpigmentation

Skin pigmentation is challenging to reverse as caused by so many factors like injuries, inflammation, hormonal changes, reaction to sunlight, and even abnormal skin growth.

It also occurs due to conditions like melasma and lentigines. In some, these conditions may be solar (made worse by sun exposure), but non-solar hyper pigmentation is not rare.

More widespread hyper pigmentation is more likely to occur due to hormonal changes, internal diseases, and even due to the use of some medications.

Most potent nutrients to consider in hyper pigmentation

Below are the top vitamins and nutrients to consider for skin health and managing hyper pigmentation;

Vitamin C

It is one of the most vital vitamins for skin health. It may be taken orally and even applied topically. It is essential for collagen formation, maintaining skin elasticity, and regeneration. It is also one of the most potent antioxidants.

Vitamin E

These are eight chemically related compounds. It is a fat-soluble vitamin, an antioxidant, and a free radical scavenger. Human skin readily absorbs vitamin E. Further, vitamin C and E use are synergistic. Vitamin C, glutathione, and Coq10 can recycle tocopherols, thus boosting its benefits for skin health.

Carotenoids (Vitamin A, beta-carotene, astaxanthin & retinol)

Human skin is enriched with carotenoids like beta-carotene, suggesting its vital role in maintaining skin health. Thus, these chemically related carotenoids are especially good for the skin. Some of these carotenoids may also help control sebum production and prevent or help manage acne, like retinol.

Among these carotenoids, beta-carotene is better for skin health. In addition, it is safe even when used or consumed regularly at higher dosages. In contrast, high dose vitamin A may cause hypervitaminosis and pose certain health risks.

Beta carotene prevents UV-induced skin redness. It also contains a mitochondrial mutation and prevents photodamage to the skin.

Astaxanthin is rich in krill oil, yeast, algae, trout, and so on. It is also a potent antioxidant with a protective impact on the skin.

Retinol is vital for skin health, and yet the body cannot produce it and thus the importance of its supplementation. It is also suitable for vision. Moreover, topical use of retinol is good for hyperpigmentation and helps prevent the formation of wrinkles.

Vitamin D

It is often seen as a prohormone with numerous roles in the body and skin health. It is essential for immune regulation, maintaining normal levels of hormones, and even helps prevent certain cancers.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends at least 400 IU of the vitamin daily for older adults to slow down skin aging and prevent hyperpigmentation. However, greater dosages like 600 to 800 IU or even more would be needed by most.

Polyphenols

These are potent antioxidants, and they are present in large amounts in fruits, vegetables, and berries. However, science is still trying to understand its role in health. They are divided into several groups like stilbenes, lignans, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.

Polyphenols like resveratrol, genistein, and silymarin may help reduce oxidative stress and skin inflammation and prevent DNA damage. In addition, these polyphenols also protect skin from UV radiation. Thus, their regular intake may help prevent hyperpigmentation.

Most botanical antioxidants are polyphenols and must be used along with vitamins and other vital nutrients. Thus, along with vitamins, one should consider resveratrol, curcumin, green tea polyphenols, to name a few.

Vitamin F (essential fatty acids)

These are long-chain fatty acids like oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are derived from linoleic acid. Studies show a strong association between faster skin aging, dryness, and skin atrophy in those with low consumption of essential fatty acids.

Fatty acids (including omega-3s) are especially good for preventing skin aging and senile skin dryness and hyperpigmentation. In addition, these fatty acids work in synergy with nutrients like vitamin E, A, and polyphenols.

Final thoughts

Hyperpigmentation is challenging to manage as it occurs due to many reasons. However, increasing intake of vitamins, prohormones like vitamin D, essential fatty acids, may help in many cases. On the other hand, there is increasing evidence that nutritional deficiencies play a role in the worsening of the condition.

Additionally, it is worth understanding that these vitamins and nutrients are not just for hyperpigmentation. They are perfect for slowing down skin aging and reducing fine lines or wrinkles. Further, they also reduce the risk of various chronic disorders, reduce inflammation, and boost metabolism.

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