Cycle of Pigmentation (How does it happen?)
Stage 1:
Before sun exposure: Melanocytes are located in the bottom layer of the epidermis.
Stage 2:
During sun exposure/ hormonal changes/ trauma such as acne etc: Melanocytes are activated by an enzyme called tyrosinase.
Stage 3:
Right after the trauma: The enzyme tyrosinase starts its work to produce melanin.
Stage 4:
During melanin synthesis: Tyrosinase goes on a rage to produce more melanin.
Stage 5:
After melanin synthesis: Melanin spreads itself through the area to protect the skin from the trauma.
The Cycle of Pigmentation (What happens?)
Stage 1:
Before sun exposure
Stage 2:
During sun exposure/ hormonal changes/ trauma such as acne etc: UV light/ hormonal changes cause internal change to trigger the melanin synthesis.
Stage 3:
Right after the trauma: Slight inflammation, redness, or burning.
Stage 4:
During melanin synthesis: occurrence of the early signs of tanning, dark marks, etc.
Stage 5:
After melanin synthesis: Spread to become stubborn melasma, acne marks, freckles etc.
Melanin is a good pigment to protect the skin from trauma but results in uneven dark spots & tanning on the skin.
The best way to tackle pigmentation is to use a Brightening Niacinamide Serum with Alpha Arbutin.
