Factors that can cause skin Pigmentation:
Pigmentation
The ingredients suggested on this page are based on scientific research and represent some of the most commonly used solutions for pigmentation concerns. While these ingredients are generally safe and effective for most individuals, we recommend consulting with a dermatologist for severe or persistent skin issues.
Pigmentation refers to changes in skin color caused by melanin, the pigment that gives skin its natural tone. When the production or distribution of melanin is disrupted, it can lead to conditions like hyperpigmentation (darkened patches of skin) or hypopigmentation (lightened patches of skin). Pigmentation appears as uneven skin tone, spots, or patches and is usually diagnosed through visual examination.
Huang et al. A randomized, controlled, split-face, double-blind comparison of a multimodality pigment-correcting serum containing lotus sprout extract versus hydroquinone for moderate to severe facial hyperpigmentation, including melasma, in a diverse population. JAAD Int. 2024 Mar 12;15:206-219.
Hydroquinone is a powerful ingredient for fading dark spots and creating a more even skin tone. It works by blocking an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is essential for producing melanin—the pigment responsible for skin color. By reducing melanin production, hydroquinone gradually lightens and fades areas of discoloration over time. This ingredient is most commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation conditions like melasma (hormonal pigmentation), sunspots (caused by UV damage), and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which often appears after acne or skin injuries.
References:
Huh, C. H., et al. (2003). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of vitamin C iontophoresis in melasma. Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland), 206(4), 316–320.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten your skin and reduce uneven pigmentation. It works by slowing down the production of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. Additionally, Vitamin C has powerful antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution, both of which can worsen pigmentation and accelerate skin aging.
This ingredient is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation conditions like melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Vitamin C is naturally derived from citrus fruits and other plant sources, making it a gentle yet effective option for a wide range of skin types.
This ingredient is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation conditions like melasma, sunspots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Vitamin C is naturally derived from citrus fruits and other plant sources, making it a gentle yet effective option for a wide range of skin types.
References:
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Dayal, Surabhi, et al. "Clinical efficacy and safety of 20% glycolic peel, 15% lactic peel, and topical 20% vitamin C in constitutional type of periorbital melanosis: a comparative study." Journal of cosmetic dermatology 15.4 (2016): 367-373
S. Dhaliwal, I. Rybak, S.R. Ellis, M. Notay, M. Trivedi, W. Burney, A.R. Vaughn, M. Nguyen, P. Reiter, S. Bosanac, H. Yan, N. Foolad, R.K. Sivamani, Prospective, randomized, double‐blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing, British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 180, Issue 2, 1 February 2019, Pages 289–296,
Bakuchiol is a natural, plant-based ingredient that works like retinol but is much gentler, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, it is highly effective in addressing discoloration and improving skin tone without the irritation commonly associated with retinoids. It helps fade dark spots by slowing down melanin production. It also calms inflammation, so it’s a great choice if your skin is easily irritated.
This ingredient is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) while also offering anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin. It is a great alternative to retinol which must be discontinued while pregnant.
This ingredient is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) while also offering anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin. It is a great alternative to retinol which must be discontinued while pregnant.
References:
See how Bakuchiol also helps with
Chaudhuri, Ratan K., and Francois Marchio. "Bakuchiol in the management of acne-affected skin." Cosmetics and toiletries 126.7 (2011): 502
Zasada, Malwina, et al. "A clinical anti-ageing comparative study of 0.3 and 0.5% retinol serums: A clinically controlled trial." Skin pharmacology and physiology 33.2 (2020): 102-116.
Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A, widely regarded as one of the most effective ingredients for improving skin tone, texture, and overall health. Retinol promotes cell turnover, encouraging the shedding of older, pigmented skin cells and stimulating the growth of fresh, even-toned cells underneath. Retinol also reduces melanin production, preventing new dark spots from forming.
Regular use helps your skin look smoother and more uniform over time. However, due to its strength, it’s essential to use retinol gradually and with sun protection to avoid irritation or increased sensitivity to UV rays.
Regular use helps your skin look smoother and more uniform over time. However, due to its strength, it’s essential to use retinol gradually and with sun protection to avoid irritation or increased sensitivity to UV rays.
References:
See how Retinol also helps with
Nyirady, R M Grossman, et al. (2001). A comparative trial of two retinoids commonly used in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 12(3), 149–157.
Bissett, D. L., Oblong, J. E., & Berge, C. A. (2006). Niacinamide: A B Vitamin that Improves Aging Facial Skin Appearance. Dermatologic Surgery, 31, 860–866.
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that helps even out your skin tone by stopping melanin from spreading to the surface layers of your skin. This means it can gradually fade dark spots and discoloration. It also strengthens your skin’s protective barrier, keeping it healthy and more resistant to damage.
Niacinamide is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation. In addition to its brightening effects, it strengthens the skin’s natural barrier making it an excellent choice for sensitive or irritated skin. Gentle yet effective, niacinamide is a versatile ingredient suitable for all skin types.
Niacinamide is commonly used to treat hyperpigmentation. In addition to its brightening effects, it strengthens the skin’s natural barrier making it an excellent choice for sensitive or irritated skin. Gentle yet effective, niacinamide is a versatile ingredient suitable for all skin types.
References:
See how Niacinamide also helps with
Bissett, Donald L., John E. Oblong, and Cynthia A. Berge. "Niacinamide: AB vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance." Dermatologic Surgery 31 (2005): 860-866.
Shalita, Alan R., et al. "Topical nicotinamide compared with clindamycin gel in the treatment of inelammatory acne vulgaris." International journal of dermatology 34.6 (1995): 434-437.
Lowe, Nicholas J., et al. "Azelaic acid 20% cream in the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation in darker-skinned patients." Clinical therapeutics 20.5 (1998): 945-959.
Azelaic Acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains like barley and wheat, known for its ability to target pigmentation and improve skin clarity. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, helping to reduce dark spots and even out skin tone. Azelaic acid also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it particularly effective for treating post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
References:
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Thiboutot D, Thieroff-Ekerdt R, Graupe K. Efficacy and safety of azelaic acid (15%) gel as a new treatment for papulopustular rosacea: results from two vehicle-controlled, randomized phase III studies. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003; 48(6): 836-845.
Webster, Guy. "Combination azelaic acid therapy for acne vulgaris." Journal of the american academy of dermatology 43.2 (2000): S47-S50.
Treesirichod, Arucha, Natapong Thaneerat, and Watcharachai Kangvanskol. "A comparison of the efficacy and safety profiles of 10% salicylic acid and 10% urea creams in treating acanthosis nigricans in adolescents: a randomized double-blinded study." Archives of Dermatological Research 315.7 (2023): 2091-2097.
Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) known for its exfoliating and skin-renewing properties. It helps reduce pigmentation by penetrating deep into the skin and gently dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface. This exfoliation process removes the outermost layer of pigmented cells, revealing brighter, more even-toned skin underneath.
Salicylic acid is particularly effective for addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne, as it not only fades dark spots but also prevents clogged pores that lead to breakouts. Its ability to reduce oil production and clear the skin makes it especially beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin types. With consistent use, salicylic acid promotes smoother, more radiant skin while gradually reducing visible pigmentation.
Salicylic acid is particularly effective for addressing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne, as it not only fades dark spots but also prevents clogged pores that lead to breakouts. Its ability to reduce oil production and clear the skin makes it especially beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin types. With consistent use, salicylic acid promotes smoother, more radiant skin while gradually reducing visible pigmentation.
References:
See how Salicylic Acid also helps with
Zheng, Yue, et al. "Efficacy and safety of 2% supramolecular salicylic acid compared with 5% benzoyl peroxide/0.1% adapalene in the acne treatment: a randomized, split-face, open-label, single-center study." Cutaneous and ocular toxicology 38.1 (2019): 48-54
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