Dark spots or hyperpigmentation are among the common skin concerns that a lot of people face. They can appear anywhere in the body but often show up on the face, back of the hands, and those parts of the body most exposed to the rays of the sun. According to Priya Bhandari, Head of Training Jeannot Ceuticals, the main causes of dark spots are past sun damage, the natural process of aging, hormonal activity, and inflammation. "This can lead to the formation of dark spots because our skin, as a reaction to sun exposure, starts to overproduce melanin, the skin's pigment, which can clump together. Another cause is aging, in which the renewal of the skin happens at a slower rate, and it also starts to produce melanin unevenly. Because this imbalance of melanin during pregnancy or through birth control pills is hormonal in nature, it causes melasma, which is another form of hyperpigmentation," Bhandari told Financial Express.com. Also ReadGarlic can keep your blood sugar and cholesterol in check—Here’s how How to get rid of dark spots? Moving down the list, there's post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that can also result from acne, cuts, or any other kind of injury to the skin and generally leaves it with a darker tone after healing, she explained. "Addressing these dark spots can be challenging, but niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is a highly effective solution. Niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that all types of skin pamper. Serving many purposes, one of which is causing dark spots and hyperpigmentation to fade, it is found in most skincare products. Basically, niacinamide works by preventing the transfer of melanin to your skin surface," Bhandari told Financial Express.com. This means that it prevents the pigment from reaching the outer layer of the skin, where dark spots become visible. Essentially, niacinamide lightens existing dark spots and prevents new ones from coming out through this gentle process that does not entail harsh bleaching, hence suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. What are the benefits of Niacinamide? Also, niacinamide represents an anti-inflammatory function that can help in soothing the skin. This will be very beneficial, especially to people with dark spots resulting from acne or any other form of inflammation. "Since niacinamide reduces redness and swelling, which helps the skin to heal, this might prevent the formation of new dark spots. Another way niacinamide helps one in improving skin tone is through boosting the barrier function. A strong skin barrier retains moisture better, which keeps the skin hydrated and healthy.Skin that is generally moisturized can repair itself and hence, overtime, reduce the appearance of dark spots," she said. Also ReadAre you into stress eating? Here’s why you should NEVER eat French fries, burgers when feeling anxious Moreover, niacinamide promotes collagen production, which smoothes out the texture of skin, hence reducing fine lines and wrinkles, which give a youthful look and even skin tone. She also highlighted that Niacinamide is also readily integrated into your skincare routine. It can be found in serums, moisturizers, and creams. "For best results, look for products with a concentration of 5% niacinamide. This ingredient is good because it's effective but gentle," she revealed. How to use Niacinamide? One can use niacinamide during both the morning and the night routine. Applied underneath sunscreen in the morning, it helps allow more protection from UVP damage; at night, it can go under heavier creams or treatments, she said.
