Is that hyperpigmentation? The now-famous TikTok meme has introduced a wide audience to a term dermatologists have been using for years—and while it might be trending online, it’s a very real skin concern for millions of people.
So, let’s break it down.
Hyperpigmentation is a fancy medical term for dark spots, uneven patches or areas of skin that look discolored compared to the rest of your complexion. It happens when melanin (your skin’s natural pigment) goes into overdrive, usually in response to inflammation, sun exposure, hormones or injury (hello, post-acne marks).
Now, here’s the good news: You can treat it. But the secret sauce is not typically one miracle product—it’s a multi-step approach that protects, prevents and corrects discoloration over time.
Step 1: Protect
No matter how good your skincare routine is, nothing works unless you are protecting your skin daily. Sunscreen is your hyperpigmentation ride-or-die. Broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, applied every morning (even on cloudy days), is non-negotiable. Why? Because UV rays are one of the main triggers for excess melanin production—and without protection, you’re basically undoing your progress every time you step outside.
Step 2: Prevent
Think of antioxidants as your skin’s internal bodyguards. They help neutralize oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, 2 major contributors to unwanted pigmentation. Look for ingredients like:
- L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- Ferulic Acid + Vitamin E
- Green Tea (EGCG)
- Resveratrol
These not only brighten the skin but also support a more even tone over time.
Step 3: Correct
To fade what’s already there, we need to talk about tyrosinase inhibitors. Tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for kickstarting melanin production. When you block it, you help reduce the new pigment from forming.
Some powerhouse ingredients that do this include:
- Hydroquinone (prescription gold standard)
- Kojic Acid
- Cysteamine
- Arbutin
- Azelaic Acid
- 4-n-Butylresorcinol
- Licorice Extract
- Oxyresveratrol
- Retinoids (bonus: they also boost skin cell turnover)
These work at different stages of melanin production—before, during and after—and are often formulated to pair well with exfoliants and retinoids for enhanced results.
While your skincare does its best work while you sleep, hyperpigmentation won’t be cured overnight. Results vary by skin tone, depth of pigment and consistency of use. Stick with it. The ingredients doing the heavy lifting need weeks to months to show their full potential.
So, stay consistent, protect your skin and be patient. With the right regimen and realistic expectations, you can outsmart those spots.
And if you’re not sure where to start, come in and see one of our board-certified dermatologists for a full skin evaluation. We’ll help you build a customized treatment plan tailored to your skin tone, lifestyle and specific type of hyperpigmentation—because no 2 spots (or faces) are exactly alike.
Give THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology a call at 602-867-7546 or visit us online at WEBSITE for more information.