YOUR GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING

HYPERPIGMENTATION

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition characterised by the darkening of certain areas due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. These darkened areas can vary in size and location, often appearing on the face, neck, hands. Hyperpigmentation can appear as brown, black, grey, red or pink spots or patches.

Causes & Types of Hyperpigmentation

Sun Spots

Small, dark spots caused by prolonged sun exposure, which are often found on areas like the face, shoulders, and hands. Prolonged exposure to UV rays stimulates melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, leading to localized dark spots

Post-Inflammatory (PIH)

This type results from skin injuries and trauma or inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or cuts - the skin responds by producing excess melanin as part of the healing process. PIH often leaves dark or red marks after the skin heals.

Melasma

Triggered by hormonal changes, melasma manifests as larger, often symmetrical patches on the face. Melasma is common during pregnancy and as we get older when the cells responsible for melanin production decrease and become less evenly distributed.

Managing and Treating Hyperpigmentation

Prioritise Sun Protection

Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial for preventing and managing hyperpigmentation. Choose SPF 30 for regular daily exposure or SPF 50 for prolonged or intense sun exposure (high UV index).

If using professional treatments or active ingredients such as retinoids, Vitamin C, or Hydroquinone, always opt for SPF 50 regardless of the season or hours of sun exposure. These treatments can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, and insufficient protection may cause pigmentation to return, potentially even more pronounced. Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors to maintain sufficient protection.

Incorporate Effective Skincare Products

- Vitamin C: Brightens skin, evens tone and reduces dark spots by by inhibiting melanin production

- Retinoids: Retinoids promote cell turnover, fading hyperpigmentation while improving overall skin texture.

- Niacinamide: This form of Vitamin B3 reduces melanin transfer within the skin, helping to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.

- Azelaic Acid: Azelaic acid has anti-inflammatory and skin-lightening properties, making it ideal for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and hormonal pigmentation.

Read more from our journal article: Best Products and Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

Professional Treatments

- Chemical Peels: Treatments like glycolic acid or TCA peels exfoliate the skin, removing darkened layers of the epidermis and encouraging cell turnover.

- Laser Therapy: Lasers target pigmentation at deeper levels of the skin for precise results.

- Microneedling: This procedure stimulates collagen production while breaking up pigment clusters in the skin.

- Red Light Therapy: Helps calm inflammation and improve skin tone over time.

Hydrate & Nourish

Healthy, hydrated skin heals faster and is less prone to pigmentation.

Incorporate ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or squalane to keep your skin hydrated. Well-moisturised skin supports a healthy barrier, which is vital for managing hyperpigmentation and preventing irritation.

Aim for at least 2 litres of water a day to support skin hydration and detoxification.

Limit caffeine and alcohol as these can dehydrate the skin, making it look dull and emphasising dark spots.

Consistency Is Key

Hyperpigmentation doesn’t fade overnight. Establishing and sticking to a consistent skincare routine tailored to your specific needs is essential for long-term results.

Results vary, but with consistent use of effective treatments and sunscreen, improvements can be seen in 4-8 weeks. Severe cases may take several months.

Read more from our journal article:Best Skincare Routines for Hyperpigmentation-Prone Skin

THE ULTIMATE HYPERPIGMENTATION ROUTINE

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Exfoliating Enzyme Cleanser

€65,00

4.9

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars

58

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Adding the right exfoliator into your hyperpigmentation routine is key. Our Exfoliating Enzyme Cleanser is a gentle yet effective formulation that helps to sweep away dead skin cells, for a refined, even skin tone. This is the perfect preparation for the next step in your hyperpigmentation routine.

Exfoliating Enzyme Cleanser

Gently Resurfaces And Nourishes for Smoother, Radiant Skin.

Precision Peel

€220,00

4.9

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars

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Regular resurfacing helps encourage the removal of accumulated surface cells to reveal smoother, brighter-looking skin. Inspired by the chemical peels performed at 111 Harley St., Precision Peel combines multiple exfoliation technologies to improve the appearance of uneven texture and tone.

Repeat this step 2-3 times a week.

Precision Peel

A Clinic-Inspired Chemical Peel For Effective Skin Resurfacing, Without The Lengthy Downtime.

A bottle of 111SKIN Dark Spot Correcting Serum with a sleek, pearlescent white and silver design lying on a light grey surface. A few drops of the serum are dispensed nearby, showcasing its smooth, creamy texture. The lighting casts a soft shadow, adding depth to the composition.

Bottle of Dark Spot Correcting Serum from 111SKIN

bestseller

Dark Spot Correcting Serum

€270,00

4.7

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars

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Step three of our routine features a potent serum that helps to brighten skin tone and reduce pigmentation. Tranexamic Acid 2% is the hero ingredient that reduces existing discolouration and redness whilst improving skin barrier function.

Dark Spot Correcting Serum

An advanced brightening treatment that works to reduce visible hyperpigmentation and dark spots to reveal a bright and even skin tone.

Model dabbing 3 dots of 111SKIN Eye Cream on her under eye whilst holding the glass bottle.

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Black Diamond Eye Cream

€250,00

4.9

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars

82

Our most potent eye cream works to combat collagen breakdown and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation under the eye area. Powered by NovoRetin – a natural alternative to Retinol that mimics its resurfacing action and slows the degradation of your skin’s natural Vitamin A levels.

Black Diamond Eye Cream

A Firming Eye Cream For Revitalised, Brighter And Younger-Looking Skin.

Jar of Repair Day Cream NAC Y²™ luxury moisturizer with a sleek metallic silver lid and a deep plum-colored container designed for advanced skincare repair.

111SKIN Repair Day Cream NAC Y2 15ml Purple pot with silver lid

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Repair Day Cream NAC Y²™

From €65,00

4.9

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars

66

To lock in all the hard work and hydration, it's crucial to follow up with a moisturiser. This lightweight cream is powered by NAC Y²™ to restore and preserve skin health.

Repair Day Cream NAC Y²™

The Ultimate Moisturiser For Firmer, Smoother Looking Skin.

Introducing

Precision Peel

Precision Peel combines AHAs, BHAs, PHAs and enzymes with recovery-conscious ingredients to refine uneven texture, improve the appearance of visible tone irregularities and reveal a brighter, smoother-looking complexion.

Designed for use two to three times per week, it brings professional resurfacing principles into a routine suitable for regular use.

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