Glow Guide
Hyperpigmentation 101: Fade Dark Spots, Even Skin Tone, Get That Glow
Have you ever felt bothered by pesky dark spots or uneven skin tone? You’re definitely not alone. Whether you’re new to Korean skincare or already deep in your routine, finding the best hyperpigmentation products for your skin type is key for clearer, glowier skin.
This guide breaks down what discolouration is, what causes it, and how to prevent and treat it—so you can build a skincare starter kit that targets dark marks and supports long-term skin health.
How to treat hyperpigmentation
Dark marks can feel stubborn and frustrating, but the good news is: there are proven ingredients that can help. The most effective approach is to combine prevention (SPF) with targeted treatments that help fade existing marks and support a more even-looking tone over time.
- Protect: sunscreen daily (yes, every day)
- Treat: brightening serums + tone-evening actives
- Support: barrier-friendly hydration to avoid irritation
- Be consistent: most dark spots take weeks to months to fade
What causes discolouration and dark marks?
Hyperpigmentation happens when your skin produces excess melanin, the pigment that gives skin (and hair and eyes) its colour. When melanin production becomes uneven, darker patches can appear.
Common triggers include:
- Sun exposure (the most common cause)
- Post-acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)
- Hormonal changes (melasma)
- Skin irritation or over-exfoliation
- Some medications and underlying conditions
A little sun is helpful for vitamin D, but too much UV radiation can trigger pigment and speed up visible photoaging—so protection is everything.
How to prevent hyperpigmentation
You know the saying: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” The same applies here. Prevention keeps marks from getting darker and helps treatment products work better.
- Slather on sunscreen daily: broad-spectrum SPF is your #1 defence against dark marks.
- Stay hydrated: water supports barrier health and helps skin look plump and radiant.
- Don’t over-exfoliate: irritation can trigger more pigmentation—gentle + consistent wins.
Best ingredients for hyperpigmentation
Because discolouration can have different causes, there are multiple ingredients that can help. These are the most popular “pigment-fighters” you’ll see in Korean skincare and beyond.
- Vitamin C
- Azelaic acid
- Niacinamide
- Kojic acid
- Retinoids
- Licorice extract
- Hydroquinone (best used with guidance)
- Salicylic acid
- Arbutin
- Glycolic acid
Products for hyperpigmentation on face
If you want to build a starter kit, focus on these categories: SPF, a targeted serum, and (if needed) a hydrating cream to keep your barrier happy while you treat.
1) Sunscreen
Nothing beats the sun… except wearing SPF while you enjoy it. Sunscreen helps prevent new dark marks and stops existing pigmentation from deepening. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that suits your skin type.
SPF won’t erase existing melasma overnight—but daily use is what makes your treatments actually work. this helpful sunscreen guide breaks it all down.
2) Hyperpigmentation creams
Serums target, but creams support. If your skin runs dry, a brightening cream can add moisture while helping improve radiance.
- COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream — hydration + glow support
- Goodal Green Tangerine Dark Spot Care Cream — brightening + moisture
- Mary & May Tranexamic Acid + Glutathione Eye Cream — for dark under-eye concerns
3) Hyperpigmentation serums
Face serums are your “magic potions” for dark spots because they deliver concentrated actives. If hyperpigmentation is your main concern, look for formulas with arbutin, vitamin C, glycolic acid, retinoids, or combinations that suit your skin tolerance.
- The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA — arbutin helps support a more even-looking tone
- Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum — arbutin-based tone support
- The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane — supports cell turnover (start slow)
Pro tip: If you’re using exfoliating acids or retinoids, introduce them slowly and keep the rest of your routine barrier-friendly.
4) Chemical peel for hyperpigmentation
Chemical peels help minimise pigmentation by exfoliating the surface so fresher, more even-looking skin can come through. They can be done at different strengths depending on your needs.
Common peel types include glycolic acid peels, as well as lactic acid, salicylic acid, and retinol-based options.
Peels can increase sensitivity. After any exfoliation, prioritise hydration and sunscreen.
FAQs
How do you know if you have hyperpigmentation?
You may notice patches that look darker than your normal skin tone—often brown, grey, red, or pink. These can appear on the face, hands, shoulders, legs, or any area that gets sun exposure.
How to reduce hyperpigmentation?
Start with sunscreen daily, then add tone-evening actives like vitamin C, arbutin, retinoids, azelaic acid, or gentle acids. If you want in-clinic options, chemical peels or laser treatments can help—just remember results take time and consistency matters.
Which Ordinary product is best for hyperpigmentation?
A popular option is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, which helps exfoliate dull surface buildup over time and can support a brighter-looking tone (introduce slowly and always use SPF).
Hyperpigmentation
Achieve flawless glass skin with our hyperpigmentation products—built to support brightening, barrier care, and long-term glow.
Shop NowKey takeaway
Managing photoaging, dark marks, and uneven skin tone starts with understanding the causes (especially sun exposure) and building a routine that includes daily SPF plus targeted actives like vitamin C, azelaic acid, niacinamide, arbutin, gentle acids, and retinoids. The real secret? Consistency, patience, and protecting your progress with sunscreen every day.
