hyperpigmentation can affect people of any skin color, and any race.

Very common and traditionally harmless, hyperpigmentation is an increase in color caused by either an increase in melanin, an increase in melanocytes, or the deposit of another substance that adds color by forming deposits in skin. This darkening of skin can be brought on by sun exposure, skin inflammation, medications, hormones, trauma, pollution and stress. It can even be the remnants of scarring related to acne or a surgical procedure.

Premature aging refers to the unnatural acceleration of the natural aging process and is induced by daylight exposure (90% of premature aging is caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun) and lifestyle choices (smoking, stress, or diet). These factors trigger a slowing of collagen production and a breakdown in elastin, reducing “turgor” (or the “snap back into place” reaction when skin has been pulled). The skin cell turnover process slows, and dead skin cells shed off of our skin’s surface at a slower rate.

The health of your skin is at stake, and it’s due to diverted skin care products that are currently sitting on your bathroom counter, in your shower and within hands reach of all your family members including your children.

The truly disturbing fact is that you may have purchased diverted products without even knowing it. Often times, they are found on the Internet or even in your local grocery or drug store.

Dry, dehydrated skin can be a temporary problem — one you experience only in winter, for example — or a lifelong concern.

Dry skin, also called xerosis, is a very common problem in modern life, affecting people of all ages, even infants.