How to Get an Even Skin Tone

What are the types of uneven skin tone?

Uneven skin tone is an umbrella term which refers to any skin condition or concern that results in varied tones in your complexion. There are several distinct skin concerns that fall under this umbrella, each with their own features. Let’s take a closer look at some of the different types of uneven skin tone.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmented skin is any skin where there is increased pigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can occur on the face or the body and in small or large patches. This skin concern isn’t necessarily harmful but can be a sign of things like hormonal changes or sun exposure.

Melasma

Often developing during pregnancy, melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation most often seen on the face. Thought to be caused by hormonal changes, melasma is characterised by symmetrical patches of discolouration.

Acne scars

Hyperpigmentation and acne scars often go hand in hand. Aside from pitted scars, blemishes also often lead to flat scars due to pink or brown post-blemish hyperpigmentation.

Sun spots

Also known as age spots, sun spots are discoloured marks causes by sun exposure, usually various shades of brown and small to medium in size. Sun spots are most common in areas that see a lot of sun such as the face, shoulders and décolletage. These spots are not harmful in themselves, however they do indicate an increased risk for other symptoms of sun exposure such as skin cancer.What causes uneven skin tone?

The causes of uneven skin tone on the face are varied, however there are a few key things you can keep an eye on:

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy or other hormonal changes can lead to an increase in pigment production.

• Skin that isn’t smooth: Rough and bumpy skin can appear less even, so spending some time figuring out how to smooth and improve skin texture can also help you achieve a more even looking complexion.

• Sun exposure: UV radiation can be a common cause for hyperpigmentation, freckles and sun spots, as well as harming your skin over time.

• Acne-prone skin: Having skin prone to blemishes opens the door for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as a type of acne scarring.

Your CeraVe even skin tone routine

Adopting a simple skincare regime packed with skin evening ingredients like niacinamide and retinol is all it takes to start working towards a more even complexion. We’ve put together an expertly selected skincare routine specifically for uneven skin, with step-by-step advice.

Cleanser

Did you know you can start targeting uneven skin tone from step one, facial cleanser? If your skin is feeling rough and uneven due to dryness, our CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is formulated with hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help hydrate your skin as it cleanses.

If your skin is normal or oily, try our CeraVe Foaming Cleanser with niacinamide to comfort your skin and target pigmentation. Use your cleanser of choice with warm (not hot) water, rinse thoroughly and pat (not rub) dry with a clean towel.

Daytime facial serum

Now that you have a clean canvas to work with, it’s time to further target pigmentation with a facial serum. Our Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum utilises the power of pure vitamin C to not only minimise the appearance of existing uneven pigmentation, but also to help stop future pigmentation from forming. Use a few drops on clean, dry, skin and gently press into your face.

Facial moisturiser

Last but not least, your morning skincare routine should feature a facial moisturiser with SPF to help stop future uneven pigmentation in its tracks. Our CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion with SPF 15 will do just that, with the added benefit of ceramides to help support the skin barrier.

Night facial serum

At night, you can switch your daytime serum out for a retinol product to intensively target existing pigmentation. Our Skin Renewing Retinol Serum can help speed up skin cell turnover, stimulate collagen production and minimise the appearance of pigmentation for an overall refreshed complexion. A few drops in enough for your entire face.

Night cream

Tips to minimise future uneven skin tone

• Wear SPF every day: Using sunscreen or products containing SPF can help minimise how much UV radiation your skin is exposed to, therefore minimising the chances of developing an uneven skin tone.

• Minimise sun exposure: Another way to minimise UV rays is to simply make a conscious effort to stay out of the sun as much as possible.

• Wear protective clothing: Block out the sun with a broad brimmed hat, high neckline or long sleeves to further reduce sun exposure.

• Be consistent with your skincare: Your routine will only achieve optimal benefits if you stick to it, so be sure to do your skincare every morning and night for best results.

Found this guide on uneven skin tone useful? Read our guide to Skincare For Maskne to learn how to manage mask-related blemishes.