How to Treat Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation 101: Causes, Fixes & Product Picks

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

What Causes It?

There are a few key types of hyperpigmentation, each with different triggers:

• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Happens after breakouts, bug bites, or skin trauma

• Sun Damage: Shows up as sun spots or age spots

• Melasma: Hormonal pigmentation, common during pregnancy or from birth control

• Skin Picking: Picking at blemishes often leads to dark marks

• Lack of Sun Protection: UV exposure makes existing pigmentation darker

Proven Ingredients to Fade Hyperpigmentation

These ingredients are known to be effective, especially when used consistently:

• Hydroquinone (2–4%): A gold standard skin-lightening agent; works by decreasing melanin production

• Tretinoin (Rx only): Increases cell turnover to fade dark spots faster

• Vitamin C: Brightens and reduces pigment over time

• Niacinamide: Calms the skin and helps reduce pigmentation gradually

• Azelaic Acid: Reduces inflammation and blocks pigment production

• Tranexamic Acid: Excellent for melasma and persistent discoloration

• Alpha Arbutin: A gentler alternative to hydroquinone

Your Hyperpigmentation-Fading Routine (with Hydroquinone + Tretinoin)

Morning:

• Gentle Cleanser

• Vitamin C Serum

• Niacinamide or Tranexamic Acid (optional layering)

• Moisturizer

• Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) – critical for preventing darkening

Evening:

• Cleanser

• Hydroquinone Cream (Apply only to affected areas; 2–4%)

• Tretinoin (Apply a thin layer after hydroquinone dries – or alternate nights if you’re new)

• Moisturizer (non-comedogenic, calming formula)

• Licorice Extract: Calms redness and naturally brightens

Night Routine Tips:

• Use hydroquinone for 3–4 months at a time, then take a break (as recommended by dermatologists)

• Start with tretinoin 2–3x a week and build up slowly to avoid irritation

• Always patch test and follow up with moisturizer to protect the skin barrier

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip sunscreen—UV exposure will undo all your progress

• Don’t use hydroquinone long-term without breaks

• Don’t use too many harsh actives at once—over-irritation can lead to more pigmentation

• Don’t expect overnight results—pigmentation fades slowly, but steadily

Final Thoughts

Hyperpigmentation can be frustrating, but with powerful tools like hydroquinone and tretinoin, it’s totally manageable. Pair them with barrier-supporting products and religious sun protection for the best results. Be consistent, stay gentle, and give your skin time—you’ll get there.