In Hong Kong, many women often feel troubled by hormonal spots when looking in the mirror. What exactly causes these hormonal spots? Today, we will delve into this topic and share some effective self-care methods to gradually improve your skin condition without the need for laser treatments.
The causes of hormonal spots can mainly be summarized into five aspects. First, aging is undoubtedly a significant factor. Generally, women between the ages of 35 and 50 are most prone to developing hormonal spots during this period. As we age, collagen in the skin gradually diminishes, and exposure to sunlight leads to “photo-damage,” which causes melanin to accumulate in the epidermis, forming hormonal spots.
Secondly, hormonal changes are also a catalyst for hormonal spots. For example, many women experience increased severity of hormonal spots due to hormonal fluctuations when using oral contraceptives or undergoing artificial reproductive treatments. Therefore, if you are taking these medications and notice that your hormonal spots are worsening, consider switching your contraceptive method or consulting a doctor.
For these stubborn hormonal spots, our goal is to undertake skincare at home to minimize their prominence. First, we recommend using vitamin A derivatives, such as retinoic acid or retinol, as these products effectively repair damaged dermis layers and promote collagen production. Initially, you may experience slight inflammation, but this is part of the skin’s self-repair process; consistent use will help improve the skin.
Additionally, the problem of excessive melanin production can be addressed with other ingredients, such as phenol, arbutin, and kojic acid, all of which are effective in inhibiting melanin production. For home skincare, products containing arbutin and kojic acid will be excellent choices.
Recently, a product containing tranexamic acid has emerged on the market, which has shown considerable efficacy; as tranexamic acid directly inhibits melanin production, it serves as a good option for those who prefer not to undergo laser treatments.
Another ingredient that should not be overlooked is vitamin C. Although its direct inhibitory effect on melanin is somewhat less than that of other ingredients, it effectively combats skin damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, helping to maintain skin health.
Apart from the above ingredients, niacinamide also contributes to improving skin conditions. It not only helps repair the skin barrier but also reduces melanin activity. Other ingredients like azelaic acid can also be considered for inclusion in your daily skincare routine.
Finally, it is important to note that the metabolism and improvement of melanin take time; usually, it takes about six weeks to see results. Therefore, after using these products, one should continue for at least six weeks to assess efficacy. During this period, it is advisable to adjust expectations and accept that lightening hormonal spots is a long process that requires patience.