Collection: Pigmentation & Dark Spots Skincare

Pigmentation describes the skin's colour. Hyperpigmentation is the term for areas that become darker than the surrounding skin because of increased or uneven melanin. “Dark spots” is a broad consumer term that can include sun spots and post-blemish marks. Different conditions can look similar, so a new, changing, irregular, itchy or bleeding mark should be assessed by a medical professional rather than treated as ordinary pigmentation.

Useful cosmetic ingredients include vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoids and targeted pigment ingredients such as arbutin. They work in different ways, and tolerance matters more than using everything together. Choose one targeted product, introduce it gradually and support it with moisturiser and daily SPF. Persistent melasma or post-inflammatory pigmentation may need diagnosis and treatment from a dermatologist.

Yes. Sunlight can darken existing pigmentation and encourage new uneven areas. Use a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, apply it generously and reapply when exposure, sweating or the product instructions require it. A tinted sunscreen containing iron oxides may provide additional visible-light protection for some people with melasma or persistent dark spots.

Many people can use both, but introducing them separately is kinder to the skin. A simple approach is vitamin C in the morning followed by sunscreen, and retinol in the evening followed by moisturiser. Begin retinol on a small number of nights each week and increase only if the skin remains comfortable. Follow the directions for the specific products rather than assuming every formula combines in the same way.

Cosmetic improvements are gradual. Some people notice a brighter, more even appearance within several weeks, while established dark spots can take several months and may recur without consistent sun protection. Review progress in the same lighting after 8–12 weeks.

Over-exfoliation can cause inflammation and damage the skin barrier. Inflammation can leave post-inflammatory dark marks, particularly in deeper skin tones. Use acids only as directed, avoid combining several exfoliants at once and reduce frequency if the skin stings, burns, peels or stays red. A gentle, consistent routine is usually more useful than aggressive treatment.

Avoid retinoids during pregnancy and check any strong active or prescription treatment with your GP, midwife or dermatologist. A simple routine based on gentle cleansing, moisturising and broad-spectrum SPF is the safest starting point. Because product formulas and personal circumstances differ, do not rely on a collection label alone to decide whether a product is suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.