Uneven Skin Tone
Improving skin texture and overall complexion
Types of Hyperpigmentation
Post-Inflammatory (PIH)
Dark marks left after acne, cuts, or skin trauma. Fades over time with treatment.
Melasma
Larger, symmetrical patches often triggered by hormones. Common during pregnancy.
Sun Spots (Solar Lentigines)
Flat brown spots from cumulative sun exposure. Often on face, hands, chest.
Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melaninthe pigment that gives skin its colouraccumulates in certain areas, creating darker patches or spots. While harmless, uneven skin tone is one of the most common skincare concerns. Understanding your type of hyperpigmentation is key to effective treatment.
Melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) respond to triggers like UV exposure, inflammation, or hormones by producing excess melanin. This melanin deposits in the epidermis or dermis, creating visible darkening. The depth of pigment affects how easily it can be treatedepidermal pigmentation responds better to topicals than deeper dermal pigmentation.
Common Triggers
Sun Exposure
UV rays stimulate melanin production and darken existing spots. The #1 cause of pigmentation.
Inflammation
Acne, eczema, cuts, burnsany skin trauma can leave behind dark marks (PIH).
Hormones
Pregnancy, birth control, HRT can trigger melasma. Often called "the mask of pregnancy."
Heat
Heat (including from cooking, hot yoga, saunas) can worsen melasma specifically.
Best Brightening Ingredients
Vitamin C
Inhibits melanin production, brightens existing spots, protects against UV damage
Retinoids
Accelerates cell turnover to shed pigmented cells faster; evens tone over time
AHAs (Glycolic, Lactic)
Exfoliate pigmented surface cells; reveal brighter skin beneath
Without daily SPF 30+, all brightening treatments are undermined. Even brief sun exposure can darken pigmentation and undo weeks of progress. Wear sunscreen every day, rain or shine, and reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
Recommended Routine
Morning
- Gentle cleanser
- Vitamin C serum
- Niacinamide serum
- Moisturiser
- SPF 30-50 (reapply!)
Evening
- Double cleanse
- AHA exfoliant (2-3x/week) OR
- Retinoid (alternate nights)
- Azelaic acid or tranexamic acid serum
- Moisturiser
Tips for Treating Hyperpigmentation
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