What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skincare concerns, and you're certainly not alone if you're looking for answers. Dark spots on the face, post-acne marks, age spots, pregnancy mask: these are all expressions of the same phenomenon, the skin producing too much melanin in specific areas. The good news? Hyperpigmentation is usually harmless and can be visibly reduced with the right skincare routine. Here's everything you need to know about its causes, types and the gestures that help.

Hyperpigmentation: what's really happening on your skin

Our skin colour is determined by a pigment called melanin, produced by specialised cells known as melanocytes located in the deepest layer of the epidermis. Melanin's main role is to protect the skin against UV damage, which is why your skin tans or develops freckles after sun exposure.



Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanocytes produce too much melanin in certain areas. This excess pigment builds up beneath the skin and forms patches large enough to be visible at the surface. The result: darkened skin in specific spots that contrast with the surrounding skin. Hyperpigmentation can appear as light brown patches, deep brown marks or grey-brown spots, depending on skin tone, depth and cause.



What are the causes of hyperpigmentation?

Several factors can stimulate excess melanin production. Most cases come down to a combination of UV exposure, hormones, inflammation and lifestyle.



-Sun exposure: the leading cause. UV rays accelerate melanin production, leading to dark patches, freckles and sun spots.

-Pollution: atmospheric particles disrupt the skin barrier and trigger pigment changes, especially in urban environments.

-Inflammation, acne or skin injury: any inflammation can leave a darkened mark once healed. This is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

-Hormonal changes: pregnancy and the contraceptive pill can stimulate melanocyte activity, causing melasma.

-Ageing: cell renewal slows with age, and decades of sun exposure gradually lead to age spots on the face, hands and neck.

-Blue light and digital screens: prolonged screen time can contribute to pigment changes, especially on skin already prone to it.



How to prevent hyperpigmentation

A few daily gestures protect the skin from the main triggers.

Daily sun protection

Applying a broad-spectrum SPF every morning, even on cloudy days, is the single most important step. UV Plus Skin Barrier SPF50+ offers high protection against UV rays while also defending the skin against five other everyday aggressors: indoor and outdoor pollution, light pollution, blue light and pollen.



Formulated with organic ginger lily extract to support the skin barrier, plus mango leaf extract and an Anti-Pollution Complex, it helps protect the skin against six visible signs of premature ageing, including dark spots. Its light, invisible fluid texture suits all skin types and layers easily under makeup.

Wear protective clothing

A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and light long sleeves provide an extra layer of protection on sunny days, especially helpful if you're prone to melasma.

Double cleanse in the evening

After a day in the city, cleansing thoroughly helps remove pollutants, SPF residue and makeup that can settle on the skin. Milk cleansers are ideal for this: their gentle, plant-based formulas dissolve impurities and makeup while respecting the skin barrier, leaving the skin soft, comfortable and ready to receive its evening skincare.

Be gentle with breakouts

Picking or squeezing spots intensifies inflammation and significantly raises the risk of post-inflammatory marks. Treating breakouts gently is the best way to prevent them from leaving traces.



When to seek advice

If hyperpigmentation appears suddenly, spreads quickly or doesn't respond to skincare, it's worth speaking to a healthcare professional. For most cosmetic concerns, however, a consistent skincare routine and good sun protection are enough to see meaningful improvement.

FAQ

Can hyperpigmentation be completely reversed?

Some types fade significantly with the right routine, especially PIH and melasma triggered by temporary causes like pregnancy. Others, such as deep age spots from years of sun exposure, are more persistent. Daily SPF, targeted serums and patience are key. Expect visible improvement after two to three months of consistent use.

What is the difference between hyperpigmentation and freckles?

Freckles are small, scattered spots usually present from a young age and often hereditary. Hyperpigmentation refers more broadly to any darker patches caused by excess melanin, including sun spots, age spots, melasma and PIH.

Can I prevent dark spots on the face completely?

Not entirely, as genetics and hormones play a role. But you can significantly reduce the risk with daily SPF, antioxidant-rich skincare, gentle treatment of breakouts and avoiding picking at the skin.

Does sunscreen really help with hyperpigmentation?

Yes, it's the single most important step. UV rays are the main trigger of melanin overproduction, and even small amounts of unprotected exposure can darken existing spots. SPF is essential year-round, not only in summer.

Should I exfoliate if I have hyperpigmentation?

Gentle exfoliation can help, as it speeds up the natural renewal of pigmented skin cells. But be careful: harsh scrubs and over-exfoliation can irritate the skin and trigger more pigmentation. Once or twice a week with a mild formula is enough.

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