How To Get Rid of Pigmentation

Hyperpigmentation – think dark spots, melasma or patches of increased pigment – can appear on your complexion, unannounced and unwanted, at any time. The darkening is due to the skin producing an increased amount of melanin and it’s caused by numerous factors, most commonly sun exposure and damage, hormonal changes or pregnancy, acne scarring or ageing. The good news is there are ways you can both prevent it and minimise the damage – especially with the right skincare ingredients…

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a go-to ingredient for erasing dark spots. A strong antioxidant, it helps protect against (and reserve existing) free radical damage and oxidation, inhibiting melanin production. It can be used on any skin type, though higher doses can be irritating if you’re super sensitive.

Unabrasive, liquid exfoliants (like lactic acid and glycolic acid) can help lighten pigmentation in a gentle yet effective way, exfoliating away dead skin cells and accelerating skin renewal to leave behind a brighter, more even surface. They offer lots of other benefits too, like smoother skin texture and cleaning clogged pores. Lactic acid (an AHA) is generally a good option for sensitive skin types.

A seriously underrated ingredient, niacinamide (vitamin B3) prevents melanin production by blocking it from reaching skin cells. It also soothes inflammation and supports the skin barrier, meaning your skin will not only be brighter but bouncier too – a great choice if your skin prefers a gentle approach.