Be it a bold red lipstick to showcase your bold and charismatic look or a subtle nude shade for a girl-next-door look, makeup has become an integral part of our lifestyle. However, one skin concern that often arises is if makeup can cause skin pigmentation as well. With so many cosmetic and ingredients used in them, it's worth exploring how makeup interacts with our skin and whether it truly contributes to pigmentation problems. Understanding skin pigmentation and their causes Pigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin. This can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal imbalances, post-inflammatory changes from acne or injury, certain medications, and even genetic predisposition. Among these, UV damage remains the most common cause in India, given our climate, dermatologist Dr Rinky Kapoor, Director and Co-Founder, The Esthetic Clinics, tells HT Lifestyle in an interview. Can makeup trigger pigmentation? As per the expert, wearing foundation, concealer, or lipstick and other makeup products don't directly cause pigmentation. But certain practices and ingredients can worsen existing conditions. She further adds that using low-quality or expired products, heavy foundations that clog pores, or formulations with harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances can irritate the skin and trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In addition to this, wearing makeup for long hours without proper cleansing also increases risk. What ingredients to look for in makeup products to avoid skin pigmentation? "Ingredients like fragrance, mineral oils, and certain preservatives may aggravate sensitive skin, while products without SPF leave skin vulnerable to sun damage, the leading cause of pigmentation," says Dr Kapoor. She recommends choosing dermatologically tested, non-comedogenic products, removing makeup thoroughly before bed, and pairing makeup with a good sunscreen to reduce pigmentation risk. Are there any natural remedies or lifestyle changes to reduce skin pigmentation? "Lifestyle modifications such as regular sunscreen use, maintaining a diet rich in antioxidants, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help reduce further pigmentation," suggests the expert. She also advises the use of natural remedies like aloe vera, green tea extracts, or turmeric to support skin health. However, here's a word of caution from Dr Kapoor: "These should be seen as complementary, not primary solutions." What are the safest and most effective solutions to prevent or manage skin pigmentation? The most reliable solutions are dermatologist-recommended treatments such as topical agents containing vitamin C, kojic acid, retinoids, or azelaic acid," says Dr Kapoor. Depending on severity, procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion deliver excellent results when supervised by experts. Prevention through consistent sun protection remains the foundation of managing pigmentation. Safe makeup practices to prevent pigmentation Pigmentation caused or aggravated by makeup is largely preventable with mindful habits. Here are some dermatologist-recommended practices: Invest in quality products: Always choose trusted, dermatologically tested brands. Look for labels like "non-comedogenic" and "hypoallergenic" if you have sensitive skin. Check ingredients: Avoid products with high concentrations of alcohol, artificial fragrances, or parabens if your skin reacts easily. Never skip sunscreen: Since UV rays are the leading cause of pigmentation, applying sunscreen beneath makeup is crucial, even on cloudy days. Remove makeup thoroughly: Double cleansing (using an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle face wash) ensures all residue, dirt, and pollutants are removed before bedtime. Follow hygiene rules: Clean your makeup brushes and sponges regularly. Avoid sharing makeup to minimize bacterial transfer. Perform patch tests: Before using a new product, test it on a small patch of skin to avoid allergic reactions. When to see a dermatologist If you notice persistent dark patches, uneven skin tone, or irritation after using makeup, consult a dermatologist. They can help identify whether the pigmentation is due to product sensitivity, sun exposure, or another underlying condition. Treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or topical creams containing vitamin C, niacinamide, or hydroquinone may be prescribed. In a nutshell, makeup does not directly cause pigmentation, but the real culprits are low-quality products, poor skincare practices, prolonged sun exposure, and neglecting proper cleansing. By choosing safe products, maintaining proper skin hygiene, and protecting your skin from UV damage, you can enjoy makeup without worrying about pigmentation issues. Remember, healthy skin should always be the foundation of beautiful makeup.