How to Treat the Appearance of Hyperpigmentation This Summer: Your Complete Guide

Summer sun is wonderful for the soul but tough on your skin tone, especially if you’re already struggling with dark patches, uneven skin, or post-breakout marks. As an esthetician, I often see an increase in clients looking for a treatment plan and help with the appearance of hyperpigmentation during this time of year.

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition where certain areas of the skin produce excess melanin, resulting in darker skin spots, discoloration, and uneven tone. Cause of hyperpigmentation can result from sun exposure, skin injury, inflammation from acne, hormones, and even genetics. The good news? There are effective treatment for hyperpigmentation to help improve clarity and restore radiance no matter your skin type.

Understanding the Forms of Hyperpigmentation

Not all discoloration is the same. Here are common forms of skin pigmentation you might notice:

• Sunspots / Age Spots: UV-triggered dark patches on areas exposed to the sun.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark marks left behind after acne or a skin injury.
• Melasma: Hormonal pigmentation often seen on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip.

Darker skin tones are more prone to lingering hyperpigmentation because melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment) are more active and reactive. That’s why a tailored approach based on your skin type is essential.

Skincare Routine to Improve the Appearance of Hyperpigmentation

Exfoliate, But Gently

Exfoliation helps brighten uneven skin tone by removing dull, pigmented surface cells. However, overdoing it can worsen skin injury and trigger more pigmentation. Choose a gentle formula.

Recommended:
Rhonda Allison Brightening Scrub — A refined exfoliant for smoothing texture and encouraging cell turnover.

Brightening Serums That Work

Skin care products with Ingredients like vitamin C, kojic acid, niacinamide, and mandelic acid are gold standards in fading dark spots and supporting even tone.

Recommended:
Skin Script Vitamin C/Green Tea Serum — Brightens and defends against environmental damage.
Face Reality 11% L-Mandelic Serum — A must for acne-prone skin with PIH.

Consider a Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is an option to treat hyperpigmentation.  It resurfaces the skin to improve texture, clarity, and tone. It’s effective for reducing dark patches, smoothing the appearance of hyperpigmentation, and encouraging fresh, even skin to come through.

Hydration & Barrier Repair

All skin types need hydration in their skin care routine, especially when treating pigmentation. Strengthening your skin barrier prevents irritation and future skin injury.

Recommended:
Eminence Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream — A hydrating cream that supports smoother, brighter skin over time.

Never Skip Broad-Spectrum SPF

Without daily sunscreen, no skin hyperpigmentation treatment will deliver lasting results. UV rays worsen every form of hyperpigmentation, from sunspots to PIH. Mineral sunscreens with iron oxides help protect against visible light, which is especially important for darker skin tones.

Recommended:
Obagi Sun Shield Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50 — Ideal for all skin types, offers a natural tint for enhanced tone protection.

Are Laser Skin Treatments Right for You?

For stubborn cases, laser skin treatments can target pigmentation deep within the skin. These should always be performed by experienced professionals, particularly for darker skin tones, as improper use can lead to further skin injury or worsen pigmentation.

Quick Summer Skincare Tips

• Avoid peak sun hours and seek shade.
• Wear UPF-protective hats and clothing.
• Use sunglasses to protect delicate eye-area skin.
• Avoid citrus oils on skin—they make pigmentation worse in sunlight.

Consistency Wins

The journey to a more even skin tone takes patience. Whether you’re dealing with post-acne marks, melasma, or sunspots, the right treatment options can fade the appearance of hyperpigmentation and restore your confidence.