Dr. Vu Huy Luong - Head of Laser and Skin Care Department, Central Dermatology Hospital said that melasma and hyperpigmentation are currently showing a clear trend of rejuvenation. Not only postpartum women or middle-aged women, many people in their twenties also experience prolonged melasma and dark spots.
Dr. Luong believes that modern lifestyle makes the skin face more factors that cause hyperpigmentation than before. The trend of traveling, playing outdoor sports, and taking photos in the sun makes many people exposed to high-intensity UV rays for a long time, but sun protection is not the right way. In addition, work pressure, staying up late, prolonged stress and frequent exposure to blue light from phones and computers also contribute to promoting the process of skin hyperpigmentation.
Notably, the situation of "treatment according to social networks" is becoming one of the common causes of premature melasma in young people. Many people arbitrarily use acid, high-concentration retinol, peel skin or laser continuously without restoring the skin's protective barrier.
When the skin is inflamed and irritated for a long time, melanocyte cells will increase melanin production, causing dark spots and melasma," Dr. Vu Huy Luong analyzed.
In addition, the psychology of wanting to whiten quickly and become beautiful quickly makes many people turn to mixed creams, skin peelings or unsafe beauty methods. The consequence is that the skin protection barrier is seriously damaged, leading to prolonged cheekbones, increased pigmentation after inflammation and very difficult to treat later.
Doctors recommend how to prevent melasma early. In which, melasma can be completely prevented if you take care of your skin properly and maintain a healthy lifestyle. To limit the risk of hyperpigmentation, Dr. Luong recommends:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50+, PA+++ daily, apply sufficient amount and reapply every 2-3 hours if working outdoors.
- Combine physical shielding with masks, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats.
- Hydrate adequately, prioritize products containing antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Niacinamide.
- Do not abuse cosmetics, peel skin or strong peeling methods.
- Limit staying up late, control stress and maintain a diet rich in antioxidants.