Skin color is influenced by a person's genetic heritage as well as environmental factors. It is determined by the amount of pigment or melanin that is produced in the skin. The cells manufacturing this pigment are called Melanocytes. These cells are found throughout the upper layers of the skin. Natural pigment is nature's way of protecting the skin from ultraviolet light. Too much melanin production leaves deposits on the skin causing hyperpigmentation. These deposits of color are often referred to as "age spots" or "liver spots."

Melanocytes manufacture melanosomes where melanin synthesis occurs. It is created when tyrosinase, an enzyme in the melanocyte, converts tyrosine, an amino acid, into melanin. The key to correcting pigmentation problems is to interrupt this biochemical cascade.
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What factors contribute to dark spots or skin pigmentation?
• Exposure to ultra violet light (sun and tanning beds)
• Hormonal changes such as pregnancy (melasma or pregnancy mask) and menopause
• Medication such as retinoids (Retin-A, Renova), some antibiotics such as Tetracycline, birth control pills and diuretics
• Post-inflammatory skin darkening after irritation or injury (acne, cuts, abrasions)
• Disease such as Addison's disease and hyperpituitarism
• Photo-sensitive ingredients (perfume and some essential oils)
• Stress

What is recommended to treat skin pigmentation?
Ingredients known to fade and inhibit the production of melanin include Arbutin derived from the Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf, Vitamin C, Mulberry Root, Licorice, Green Tea, Mitracarpe, Scutellaria and Hydroquinone. These ingredients act by suppressing the enzyme system responsible for melanin production. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids will boost lightening products by accelerating exfoliation of surface cells, thus fade existing pigmentation and stimulate cell renewal. Exfoliation of the stratum corneum will also allow for effective delivery of other actives to the deeper layers of the skin. AHA's and BHA's include Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Malic and Citric Acid. ONLY YOURx Whitening Serum, Bleaching Lotion with Hydroquinone and ExfoGel™ products are recommended to treat pigmentation problems.

Tips for treating and preventing hyperpigmentation
• Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. The sun is responsible for contributing to pigmentation problems so wearing a sunscreen daily is imperative.
• There are a few products that can speed up the lightening process. These can include vitamin C products and a separate alpha hydroxy acid product. ONLY YOURx Multi Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum can be used to boost the lightening process. It is recommended to use the Multi Vitamin C Antioxidant Serum at the alternate time of day when using the Whitening Serum. ONLY YOURx ExfoGel™ Alpha Hydroxy Acid products can also be used to enhance the exfoliation process to help lighten existing pigmentation. It is important to use the appropriate strength for your skin type, as well as slowly building up to daily use. The ExfoGel™ product should be applied to the skin after cleansing and toning, followed by the Whitening Serum. Your skincare specialist will recommend the appropriate products and use instructions for your particular skin type and skin conditions.