Your skin has a lot to say—and sometimes dark spots and uneven patches are its words of choice. They’re also common signs of hyperpigmentation, likely leaving you with a few questions: What exactly is it? And can I do something about it?
Good news: there are answers, and we’re sharing them all here. Read on to find out what causes hyperpigmentation, how to help manage it, and what you can do to help keep it from coming back.
Consider this a conversation starter to help you better understand your skin—and care for it the way it deserves.
First things first, what is skin pigmentation?
You’ve probably heard terms like hyperpigmentation or skin discoloration. While they may sound technical, they relate to one simple thing: skin color.
Pigmentation is the color of your skin. That color comes from cells called melanocytes, which produce melanin, a natural pigment that not only gives skin its tone but also helps protect it. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces more melanin to defend itself—leading to a deepening tone or tan.
This all happens in the epidermis, the outermost layer of your skin. Just like your hair or eye color, your skin tone depends on how much melanin your body makes.
So, what is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation refers to parts of the skin that appear darker than the rest. It’s a common condition that presents as visible spots or patches—areas that have started producing more melanin than usual.
On the other hand, hypopigmentation is when skin loses color in certain areas. But today, we’re focusing on excess, not lack.
Why hyperpigmentation happens
Most of the time, hyperpigmentation is your skin’s response to something—an external trigger or internal change that sets off your natural pigment production. Here are some of the top causes:
- Sun exposure
- Hormonal shifts, like those during pregnancy or from hormonal birth control
- Previous inflammation or injury, such as acne, burns, or cuts
- Aging, which can bring along visible dark spots
- Certain medications or harsh skincare products
The most common types of hyperpigmentation
Let’s take a closer look at the different types of hyperpigmentation, how they show up, and what to know about each one.
Melasma
Melasma usually appears as uneven brown or grayish-brown patches, often on the forehead, cheeks, or upper lip—places that get a lot of sun.
While it can affect anyone, it’s more common in women, especially during times of hormonal change, like pregnancy, and with hormonal contraceptive use. Deeper skin tones may also be more apt to experience melasma.
Expert tip: If you’re prone to melasma, limit sun exposure when possible and apply a tinted broad spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen daily to protect and help unify.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
This type of discoloration can show up after your skin has been irritated or inflamed—think acne, bug bites, burns, or rashes. When the skin heals, it may produce extra melanin, leaving behind a darker mark. Since PIH can affect deeper layers of the skin, it can take longer to fade than other types of discoloration.
Although it’s more common in medium to deep tones, PIH can occur in all skin tones. The key to helping prevent it? Caring for your skin properly after a potential trigger.
Expert insight: PIH often sticks around longer than the original catalyst. Treat the root cause early and talk to your dermatologist about a customized plan.
Should I be worried about skin discoloration?
In most cases, hyperpigmentation is completely harmless. Plus, with the right skincare routine, you can often fade the appearance of dark spots over time. But if you ever notice sudden or unusual changes—like a new patch or a mole that looks different—it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor.
That said, if discoloration is something that’s bothering you, there are plenty of ways to help smooth out your skin tone and feel more confident. And remember the golden rule: sunscreen every day, no matter what.
How to soften skin discoloration
An easy and effective way to target dark spots and patches? Beyond sunscreen, try adding a pigment-correcting serum to your daily routine. These lightweight, concentrated formulas are designed to help fade the look of spots and support a more even-looking complexion.
Meet Melaclear Advanced
Looking for a serum that actually delivers? Melaclear Advanced is a powerful dark spot correcting serum that helps visibly reduce discoloration.
It’s lightweight, fast-absorbing, and plays well with the rest of your routine. Plus, it’s suitable for all skin tones and types—even sensitive skin.
Why you’ll love it
Melaclear Advanced blends science and performance into one effective formula—no hype, just visible results.
- Up to 71% reduction in visible dark spots in just 14 days*
- Brightens and evens out tone with a gentle exfoliating effect
- Supports the skin barrier and smoothes texture
- Targets current spots and helps limit the appearance of new ones
- Works on various types of discoloration—sun-related, age-related, post-acne, and post-pregnancy
What’s inside
It’s all thanks to a triple-action formula designed to help improve discoloration without irritating your skin:
- Tranexamic acid helps visibly fade existing dark spots, especially those from sun exposure.
- Niacinamide helps brighten, soothe, and hydrate while evening out tone.
- Spot Corrector Complex encourages gentle skin renewal for a smoother, more uniform look.
How to use it: Apply morning and night, after eye cream, and before your moisturizer. Use it on your face, neck, and chest. And if you’re applying in the morning, follow with broad spectrum sunscreen.
Every skin story matters
Hyperpigmentation, dark spots, patches. By understanding why discoloration happens and how to care for it, you can make confident choices and support your skin in looking and feeling its best.
Because skin with a mix of different shades and spots isn’t flawed—it’s just speaking up. And now, you’ve got the tools to listen, connect, and care with confidence.
References and sources:
1 Davis, E. C., & Callender, V. D. (2010). Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: a review of the epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment options in skin of color. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 3(7), 20–31. Retrieved 10 of October, 2022, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20725554/
2 Handel, A. C., Miot, L. D., & Miot, H. A. (2014). Melasma: a clinical and epidemiological review. Anais brasileiros de dermatologia, 89(5), 771–782. https://doi.org/10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143063
3 Hönigsmann H, Stingl G (eds): Therapeutic Photomedicine. Clinically Oriented Symposium, Organized by the European Society for Dermatological Research, Baden/Vienna, February 1985. Curr Probl Dermatol. Basel, Karger, 1986, vol 15, pp 25-38. doi: 10.1159/000412090. Retrieved 10 of October, 2022, from https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/412090#
4 Kaufman, B.P., Aman, T. & Alexis, A.F. Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, Pathogenesis and Treatment. Am J Clin Dermatol 19, 489–503 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-017-0333-6
5 MedlinePlus. (2018, June 26). Skin Pigmentation Disorders | Hyperpigmentation. MedlinePlus. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/skinpigmentationdisorders.html
6 Frudakis, T. N. (2008). Direct Method of Phenotype Inference. Molecular Photofitting. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/eumelanin
7 Callender VD, St Surin-Lord S, Davis EC, Maclin M. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation: etiologic and therapeutic considerations. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2011 Apr 1;12(2):87-99. doi: 10.2165/11536930-000000000-00000. PMID: 21348540.