How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation?
A Complete Guide to Clearer, Even-Toned Skin Using Evidence-Based Skincare and The Ordinary Products
🧬 What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin issue where certain patches of the skin become darker than others due to excess melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color.
Fun Fact: Melanin acts as the skin’s natural sunscreen — but when triggered in excess, it leads to unwanted dark spots.
🧪 What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
The most common causes include:
| Trigger | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Sun Exposure | UV rays stimulate melanin to protect the skin, often resulting in sunspots. |
| Hormonal Changes | Especially during pregnancy or with birth control; known to cause melasma. |
| Inflammation | Post-acne or eczema flare-ups leave behind dark marks (PIH). |
| Medications | Certain drugs (like antibiotics or chemotherapy) can trigger pigmentation. |
| Genetics | Some people naturally produce more melanin. |
🔎 Types of Hyperpigmentation
| Type | Description | Common Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) | Dark marks after pimples or injuries | Face, chest, back |
| Melasma | Large patches from hormonal shifts | Forehead, cheeks, upper lip |
| Sunspots (Lentigines) | Caused by prolonged sun exposure | Face, arms, hands |
| Freckles | Genetic & sun-induced | Nose, cheeks, shoulders |
🪞 How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation – Step-by-Step Guide
✅ Step 1: Wear Sunscreen Every Day
UV rays are the #1 cause of hyperpigmentation and can worsen existing spots.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
- Reapply every 2 hours if exposed to sunlight
“No treatment works without sunscreen. It’s the foundation of pigmentation control.”
— Dr. Michelle Wong (Lab Muffin Beauty Science)
✅ Step 2: Use Proven Active Ingredients
You must target melanin production, cell turnover, and inflammation.
(We’ll cover this in detail below 👇)
✅ Step 3: Follow a Consistent Routine
Dark spots can take 6–12 weeks or more to fade. Be patient and consistent.
✅ Step 4: Avoid Picking Skin
Popping pimples = more inflammation = more hyperpigmentation.
✅ Step 5: Hydrate and Repair
Support your skin with moisturizers, barrier repair creams, and hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid.
🔬 Proven Ingredients That Fade Hyperpigmentation
| Ingredient | Function | Works Best For | Found In (The Ordinary) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide | Regulates melanin, reduces redness | PIH, melasma | Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% |
| Alpha Arbutin | Tyrosinase inhibitor (reduces pigment) | Sunspots, melasma | Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA |
| Azelaic Acid | Calms inflammation + reduces spots | PIH, rosacea, acne | Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% |
| Vitamin C | Brightens and protects skin | All types | Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% |
| Retinol | Speeds up skin turnover | Deep pigmentation | Retinol in Squalane |
| Glycolic Acid | Exfoliates dead pigmented skin cells | Surface spots | Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution |
🧴 Skincare Routine Using The Ordinary (Morning & Night)
🌞 Morning Routine
- Gentle Cleanser
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Reduces inflammation and oil that worsens spots - Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Directly targets melanin production - Moisturizer
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ ✅ Most important
🌙 Night Routine
| Day | Routine |
|---|---|
| Daily | Cleanser → Alpha Arbutin → Azelaic Acid → Moisturizer |
| 2–3x/week | Use Glycolic Acid after cleansing |
| 2x/week | Add Retinol in Squalane at night instead of other actives |
⚠️ Don’t mix Glycolic Acid, Retinol, and Vitamin C on the same night if you’re a beginner.
📊 Results Timeline
| Week | Visible Change |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Skin may purge or feel sensitive |
| Week 4 | Subtle brightness, less oiliness |
| Week 8 | Spots begin to fade, skin tone evens |
| Week 12+ | Clearer, radiant, smoother skin |
📁 Case Studies and Real-Life Results
📌 Case Study 1: Melasma Treatment with The Ordinary
Subject: Female, 35, Melasma from hormonal birth control
Routine: Alpha Arbutin + Azelaic Acid + Sunscreen
Results After 3 Months:
“Patches on my upper lip and cheeks faded by over 60%. I never thought affordable products could be so powerful.” — Sara A.
📌 Case Study 2: Acne Scars (PIH)
Subject: Male, 25, Post-acne marks
Routine: Niacinamide + Retinol + Glycolic Acid + SPF
Results:
90% of dark spots faded in 12 weeks
📈 Chart: Ingredient Efficacy Over Time
line
title Fading Effectiveness Over 12 Weeks
x-axis Weeks
y-axis % Reduction in Pigmentation
Niacinamide: 0, 10, 25, 40
Alpha Arbutin: 0, 15, 35, 50
Azelaic Acid: 0, 12, 30, 48
Retinol: 0, 5, 20, 40
🛡️ Prevention Tips
- 🧴 Never skip SPF, even indoors
- 😴 Get enough sleep to support skin repair
- 🍊 Eat antioxidant-rich foods like berries, citrus, and leafy greens
- 🧂 Limit sugar & dairy, which can increase acne and inflammation
- ❌ Don’t touch or pick your skin
- 🧼 Use gentle cleansers — avoid stripping soaps
❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does it take to fade hyperpigmentation?
Answer: Usually 8–12 weeks with consistent treatment and sunscreen.
Q2: Can I use The Ordinary during pregnancy?
Answer: Avoid retinoids. You can safely use niacinamide, azelaic acid, and alpha arbutin — but always consult your doctor.
Q3: Do I need all the products?
Answer: No. Start with 2–3 targeted products and always use sunscreen.
Q4: Can hyperpigmentation come back?
Answer: Yes — especially if you’re exposed to the sun without protection. Maintain your routine and SPF daily.
🛍️ Recommended The Ordinary Hyperpigmentation Bundle
| Product | Role | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | Reduces dark spots + oil | AM/PM |
| Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA | Lightens pigmentation | AM/PM |
| Glycolic Acid 7% | Exfoliates dead skin | 2–3x/week PM |
| Azelaic Acid 10% | Brightens, anti-inflammatory | PM |
| SPF 50 | Prevents further pigmentation | AM |
📌 Final Thoughts
Hyperpigmentation is treatable, but it takes time, knowledge, and consistency. Combining scientifically proven ingredients with daily sun protection and a gentle, regular skincare routine is your best path forward.
💡 Remember:
“Consistency and protection are more powerful than the most expensive creams.”
With The Ordinary’s affordable, effective lineup — you can fade dark spots, brighten your skin, and restore confidence.
🛒 Want Help Choosing The Right Products?
👉 Visit Ordinary-Maroc.com – your official reseller of The Ordinary in Morocco 🇲🇦
