No matter how diligent you are with your skincare routine, dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, can be an unavoidable reality. They usually develop due to acne scars, sun exposure, and hormonal changes, and they occur when the skin produces excess melanin, clumping it together in certain areas. One thing about dark spots, discolouration, and hyperpigmentation is that these uneven patches of excess melanin can be frustratingly stubborn and take months of consistency to treat.
According to dermatologists, the best way to prevent and treat hyperpigmentation lies in a well-rounded approach that not only targets existing dark spots but also nourishes the skin, boosts cell turnover, and prevents future pigmentation. That means investing in products with powerful active ingredients, from antioxidants and retinoids to gentle exfoliants and tyrosine inhibitors.
If you’re serious about fading discolouration, here are the top expert-backed strategies to incorporate into your skincare routine, along with products that will give you the results that you desire.
1. Use Sunscreen
Let’s start with the most crucial step: sunscreen. If you do just one thing to prevent and treat dark spots, please let it be by wearing sunscreen.
Hyperpigmentation is largely caused by UV exposure, which triggers melanin production and exacerbates existing dark spots. Without daily SPF protection, all your brightening efforts will be in vain, as the sun’s rays will continue to stimulate excess melanin production.
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is essential, but if you have stubborn dark spots, SPF 50+ is even better. Japanese sunscreens, in particular, are known for their lightweight, elegant textures and superior UV protection.
Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence is a gold-standard SPF that doubles as a face moisturizer. This lightweight, water-based formula, infused with hyaluronic acid, helps maintain the skin’s hydration while shielding it from harmful UV rays. It absorbs quickly and leaves no white cast, so it can be used by all skin tones. With SPF 50+ PA++++, it provides robust protection against both UVA and UVB rays and prevents further dark spots from forming. Price: ₦11,900. Where To Buy: Shop Teeka4.
Another stellar sunscreen, Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+, is a hydration-packed formula formulated for those who prefer a silky, water-light texture. Despite its name, the texture is more watery than gel-like, allowing it to absorb effortlessly into the skin within seconds.
The formula is enriched with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, making it a great sunscreen for people with dry or dehydrated skin. It won’t leave the skin feeling tight or flaky, and it also works beautifully under makeup. Price: ₦10,000. Where To Buy: Shop Buy Better.
Read our top picks for the best sunscreens with no white cast for sensitive skin.
2. Use Antioxidants
Antioxidants are powerful compounds that neutralise free radicals (unstable molecules that cause skin damage and pigmentation). They also help brighten the complexion and boost collagen production. Vitamin C, turmeric, and ferulic acid are great for fading dark spots.
Advanced Clinicals Vitamin C + Turmeric Face and Body Cream combines it with turmeric and ferulic acid for maximum brightening power. This body and face lotion uses Vitamin C to neutralise free radicals and boost collagen, turmeric to fade dark spots and reduce redness, and ferulic acid to enhance the stability and effectiveness of vitamin C.
This cream is for anyone who wants a moisturising, brightening treatment for the face and body. It absorbs easily and provides long-lasting hydration while actively working to even out skin tone. Price: ₦15,500. Where to Buy: Shop Nectar Beauty Hub.
This brightening and detoxifying clay mask harnesses the power of turmeric, vitamin C, and papain enzymes to treat and get rid of hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and dullness. It contains kaolin and bentonite clays to absorb excess oil and impurities, making it a great product for oily or acne-prone skin.
Unlike DIY turmeric masks, this formula doesn’t leave a yellow stain on the skin, and it’s a mess-free option for achieving a radiant, even-toned complexion. It is best to use this clay mask for 3 – 4 days a week as a weekly glow-boosting treatment that clears acne and brightens the skin. Price: ₦28,500. Where To Buy: Shop Shop Station.
RELATED: Get Bright, Even-Toned Skin With These 7 Best Vitamin C Lotions
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is a game-changer for hyperpigmentation. It speeds up cell turnover, pushing pigmented cells to the surface and revealing fresh, even-toned skin underneath. Over time, retinol also stimulates collagen production, improving texture and reducing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne scars.
RELATED: 7 Best Retinol Body Lotions for Smoother, Firmer Skin
Exfoliation plays a big role in fading hyperpigmentation. By sloughing away dead skin cells, you’re not only revealing brighter skin but also giving way for other treatment products to penetrate into the skin and work more effectively. However, harsh scrubs can worsen inflammation and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so use gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid, azelaic acid, and enzymes like papain.
5. Use Tyrosine Inhibitors
Tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for melanin production, and when it goes into overdrive, it leads to stubborn dark spots. Tyrosinase inhibitors like tranexamic acid, kojic acid, alpha-arbutin, and licorice root extract work by interrupting this process. They prevent excess pigment formation and gradually fade existing spots.
And if you’re looking to reclaim an even-toned, radiant complexion, these products are your ultimate allies. Now, all that’s left is to commit to your routine and watch your skin transform.
