Pigmentation creeping up more this summer? Here’s how to keep your skin safe from harmful rays and maintain an even complexion.

Summer is upon us. As sun-soaked days are here, it's crucial to address a common skincare concern that haunts most of us: pigmentation. The scorching sun, increased UV exposure and soaring temperatures can all wreak havoc on your skin, leading to unwanted patches of pigmentation. But, with ample knowledge and the right approach, you can banish pigmentation and keep radiant, even-toned skin all summer long. 

How to prevent pigmentation?

Skin pigmentation is a common condition that affects all skin types and ages. And if left untreated for a long time, these brown-tinged patches can quickly turn into a long-term nuisance. If you are committed to keeping these dark patches at bay this summer, follow these simple tips and tricks:

1. Shield yourself from harmful sun rays

Excessive sun exposure is the biggest culprit behind pigmentation because it can stimulate melanocytes. Melanocytes, pigment-producing cells, are found in our skin's dermo-epidermal junction and basal layers. When triggered, these cells can become hyperactive and begin overproducing melanin, resulting in skin pigmentation and sunspots. So, if you want an even-toned complexion this summer, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is paramount. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 before stepping out, even on cloudy days. And don’t forget to reapply every two hours. In addition to liberally applying SPF, the best way to prevent sun-induced pigmentation is to wear protective clothing. Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats are the best way to defend your skin from the sun’s wrath. 

2. Use antioxidant-rich skincare products

If you want radiant, pigmentation-free skin this summer, antioxidant-rich skincare products are your best bet. Incorporating skincare products rich in potent antioxidants like vitamin C, green tea extract and niacinamide will brighten your skin, reduce pigmentation and fight free radicals. Together, these substances limit the synthesis of melanin, the pigment that causes dark spots, giving skin a more even tone. For a clear complexion and instant glow-boosting effect, try By Biolite's Niacin Radiance Crème. This supercharged treatment moisturizer utilizes clinically-proven PhytoRetinoid Technology to restore vitality to your skin and gives you a clear and radiant complexion.

3. Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliation is a crucial part of any pigmentation control skincare routine. But you will only see the results you want if you exfoliate mindfully. Since your skin is more prone to damage in the scorching sun, stay away from harsh exfoliants. Instead, opt for a gentle exfoliant that sloughs off dead skin cells without causing any irritation or damage to your skin. By Biolite’s The Perfect Scrub is an excellent solution for pigmentation. This gentle exfoliant contains micrograins that refine skin to new clarity and smoothness, while the ultra-moisturizing scrub base keeps your skin supple and comfortable during the exfoliating process. *Always apply sunscreen after exfoliating. 

4. Opt for a targeted treatment

If you want to get rid of stubborn pigmentation spots quickly, take the professional route. There are a plethora of amazing pigmentation treatment options to help even out your skin tone. You can try IPL therapy, also known as a Photofacial. It is a form of non-ablative (fractional) laser treatment that promotes collagen development in the dermis. Being quick and non-invasive, it has been touted as one of the best pigmentation treatments on the market. The epidermis, or top layer of skin, is penetrated by a powerful beam of light during this treatment in order to draw out pigment-producing cells and diffuse the uneven pigment. The light energy from IPL is absorbed by the pigmented cells in our skin and converted to heat in the dermis. This heat causes a superficial injury to your skin and destroys the unwanted pigment in your skin. You can also consider getting PICO Genesis, a laser procedure that tackles pigmentation, leaving you with a bright, radiant and even-toned complexion. It uses three highly-effective wavelengths in ultra-short pulses to cause an intense, non-thermal, photo-mechanical disruption and remodeling of the upper dermis. 

Follow these simple steps and get ready to flaunt your beautifully even-toned, pigmentation-free skin this summer.