Hyperpigmentation is a term used to describe areas of the skin that appear darker than others. The darker areas can include small patches and large areas and even affect the entire body. Hyperpigmentation can appear in brown, black, grey, red, or pink patches.

Two main types of hyperpigmentation

Sunspots: Also called age spots, liver spots or solar lentigines, sunspots are common. They’re related to excess sun exposure over time. Generally, they appear as spots on areas exposed to the sun, like the hands and face.

Sunspots are caused by overactive pigment cells. UV ray light speeds up melanin production; a natural pigment that gives skin its colour. Skin that has had years of sun exposure can cause age spots to appear when melanin becomes clumped or is produced in high concentrations.

Acne scars: otherwise known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation which was caused by injury or inflammation to the skin.

For the purpose of this blog, hyperpigmentation caused by medical conditions such as rosacea and psoriasis will not be covered in this article. Please seek medical or professional advice should you suffer from these conditions.

While increased pigmentation usually isn’t harmful, it may cause a person to feel distressed or self-conscious when the undesired patches appear, throwing a spanner into our glass skin routines! Fear not as several lifestyle changes can help, especially sun protection and skin care.

To help fade existing hyperpigmentation caused by sunspots or acne scars please see our step-by-step guide on the most effective night and day routines you can begin with today!

Night Routine:
Step 1: Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
Step 2: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Step 3: COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner
Step 4: Axis – Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
Step 5: Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum
Step 6: Etude Moistfull Collagen Cream

Day Routine:
Step 1: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Step 2: Axis – Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
Step 3: Goodal Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Care Cream
Step 4: IsNtree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel

For the above-recommended routine, double cleansing (steps 1 and 2) is important to effectively remove makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, dirt, and other impurities from the skin, ensuring a clean canvas for subsequent skincare products.

Please note that retinol can be potent and may cause irritation, especially when you first use it. Our recommendation is to begin by using it 2-3 times a week before slowly increasing the application to once a day.

Retinol can help fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone by inhibiting the production of melanin and promoting cell turnover. This can result in a more even and radiant complexion. It is recommended that retinol be used at night to promote cell turnover and renewal.

Retinol is also effective in treating acne by preventing the formation of comedones (clogged pores) and reducing inflammation. It helps to regulate oil production and exfoliate the skin, which can prevent breakouts and improve overall skin clarity.

Retinol works more effectively when combined with Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) which is found in Axis – Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum, this is why we have combined the two products. The Axis – Y serum contains 5% Niacinamide to help fade dark spots and improve skin pigmentation problems such as dullness and uneven colour. At the same time, Niacinamide can also help reduce inflammation caused by acne, help the skin recover from damage, and nourish the skin from within.

It is important to note that retinal should not be used at the same time as Vitamin C because combining both ingredients may increase the risk of irritation, redness, or sensitivity. Vitamin C should be used during the day to protect the skin from environmental damage, promote collagen production and enhance sun protection when combined with sunscreen.

Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey towards radiant, vibrant skin! We can hardly contain our excitement for you to try our day and night skincare routine, crafted to unveil the beauty and vitality your skin deserves. Let the adventure begin – your path to luminous, healthy skin awaits!✨