We’ve all noticed inconsistencies in our complexion from time to time. Whether it be a few red dots from acne or a group of new freckles from your most recent tan, skin discoloration is a normal occurrence. However, despite this fact, it’s still something we’d prefer to get rid of if we could. After all, an uneven complexion is often far from the face we want to present to the world. Fortunately, consistent skin is possible with the right lifestyle changes and a fundamental knowledge of how the skin works. These are a few tips for treating an uneven skin tone and what you need to know to promote a clearer complexion.

What Makes a Skin Tone Uneven?

When we refer to an uneven skin tone, the first thing we tend to think of is an inconsistency in color. Though this is certainly true, it isn’t where the definition ends. An uneven skin tone includes any instance of an abnormal skin texture as well. Uneven skin might appear red on the surface, or it could blend in yet feel rough or bumpy to the touch. Because of this, it’s important that you’re on the lookout for both of these features when determining your condition.

Some common examples of skin conditions that generate an uneven tone include:

  • Rosacea
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Acne and scarring
  • Eczema

Root Causes of an Uneven Skin Tone

But an uneven complexion doesn’t develop on its own accord. It’s actually the result of several other components of your environment and overall lifestyle. As such, it’s vital that you know what these factors are so you can effectively avoid them. These are some of the main causes of skin discoloration.

Sun Damage

While the sun is beneficial for our bodies in a series of ways, too much exposure often leads to severe and lasting skin damage. These effects penetrate the cells deeply, which causes them to respond by producing more melanin—the pigment that colors our skin. This is what ultimately causes dark spots to develop and what makes them so difficult to get rid of.

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in an individual’s hormone balance can also have a darkening effect on the skin. This is because these changes often trigger an inflammatory response from the cells. Particularly drastic switches, such as during pregnancy, can cause the cells to produce excess melanin and blemishes similar to standard hyperpigmentation. This condition is melasma, and it can affect women throughout the duration of their pregnancy.

Lack of Sleep

Another potential cause to avoid is sleep deprivation. Though you might not initially see the correlation, a lack of sleep can bring about a multitude of different issues, such as lowering the immune system and increasing oil production. This can increase your chances of developing acne, which often leaves behind a series of hyperpigmented scars. Failing to get enough sleep also hinders your body’s ability to heal, which slows the rate at which your skin can recover from these blemishes.

Tips for Correcting an Uneven Skin Tone

Now that you know some factors to look out for, it’s time to get into the logistics of what you can do to return your skin to its former appearance. Use these tips for treating an uneven skin tone to start yourself off on the right track.

Prioritize Sun Protection

First, make sure you’re always protecting your skin from the sun. As previously discussed, our cells produce melanin as a way to protect themselves from sunburns and skin damage. Because of this, it’s vital that you’re applying sunscreen if you want to maintain an even skin tone. Even the practice of tanning is strongly ill-advised due to its potential to cause dark spots. So, stock up on SPF 30 before you set out for outdoor fun this summer.

Keep Your Skin Hydrated

It also helps to keep your skin hydrated by drinking more water and applying moisturizer regularly. The more moisture your cells retain, the better they’ll be at protecting themselves from potential irritants in your environment. As such, next to using sunscreen, this is one of the best ways to form a strong barrier that keeps your skin in good condition. Customizing your skincare routine to provide more moisture is also a good idea.

Adopt an Exfoliation Routine

Next, try to add more exfoliating products to your regimen. Exfoliation is incredibly helpful at removing the dead and dull cells on the surface layer of your skin and bringing the newer ones to light. By regularly using these abrasive formulas, you’re removing the cells that are darkest and slowly making your way to a more even complexion. For this reason, it’s the fastest way to promote cell turnover and lighten your skin a little bit at a time. Just make sure you aren’t over-using exfoliators, as they can contribute to excessive skin dryness as well.

Use Brightening Serums

Brightening serums make up another important part of skin lightening treatment. This is because they’re specially formulated to penetrate the deeper layers of cells and bring out your natural glow. Substances like vitamin C and retinol work to strengthen your skin while providing the cells with everything they need to repair themselves. Glutathione is also a common ingredient found in these products due to its ability to stop the overproduction of melanin.

Increase Your Vitamin C Intake

You don’t have to stop at changing your skincare, either. Since vitamin C is such a beneficial substance for the entire body, it can help to ingest more of it through food as well. Citrus fruits like oranges, strawberries, and pineapple are all very rich in vitamin C. You can even take vitamin C in the form of a supplement to better fit your daily lifestyle.

If you’re in need of formulas that’ll even out your skin tone in the most effective ways, reach out to Flawless Beauty and Skin. Made with vitamin C and glutathione, our natural skin brightening products have ingredients that work with your skin to slow down discoloration and reverse its effects on your complexion. This way, you can obtain clearer skin on your terms and leave your skin healthier in the long run. For more information about our different offerings and the ingredients that’ll contribute to your success, give us a call, or visit our website.