Managing Hyperpigmentation: Summer Skincare Tips for a Radiant Complexion

Ever notice dark spots on your skin? That's hyperpigmentation, a common issue where some areas get darker than others. It happens when your skin makes too much melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Many things can cause it, from sunburns to acne scars, and it affects everyone, no matter your skin tone. 

Thankfully, there are many products and treatments to help with managing this skin concern. During the fall and winter months, laser procedures, retinols and hydroquinone are highly effective for treating pigmentation. However, with increased sun exposure over the summer, it’s best to tailor your routine to a gentler (but still effective) approach with pigment focused products, without exacerbating the issue. Keep reading for all our top tips and tricks for protecting your skin this summer! 

When it comes to skincare, sunscreen is an absolute must-have! The key ingredients you want to look for are iron oxides, as they absorb visible light and protection against UVA radiation. This makes them more effective at treating and preventing melasma. Our top sunscreen recommendations with iron oxides include: 

• EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41: An all-mineral sunscreen, ideal for normal to oily skin. It is lightly tinted to even skin tone and provides excellent protection against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. 

• ZO® Skin Health Sheer Fluid Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50: A lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Formulated with innovative technology, this sheer fluid sunscreen provides superior sun protection while nourishing and hydrating the skin. 

• Vivier Sheer Mineral Tinted SPF 30: A broad-spectrum UVA/UVB mineral tinted sunscreen that combines new ChromaTint™ technology, antioxidants and extracts. This innovative new formula provides an instant natural and even glow, and easily melts into the skin. Added antioxidants/extracts provide added hydration and anti-aging benefits for complete sheer protection.

Some of the best products for treating hyperpigmentation are Hydroquinone and Retinol. Hydroquinone works as a skin-bleaching agent, lightening darker pigment by inhibiting the melanocytes from producing pigment. Retinol, on the other hand, increases skin cell turnover, which helps minimize the appearance of pigmentation. 

However, it’s important to exercise caution when using these ingredients in the summer, as they can increase photosensitivity due to greater sun exposure. But don’t worry! There are plenty of other products that effectively address pigmentation and are completely safe to use during the summer.  

A targeted brightening serum is key for reducing pigment in the skin. Serums work deeper in the skin as they have a smaller molecular size compared to your moisturizer. In the summer it’s best to focus on serums that contain niacinamide and vitamin C. Our top recommendations are:  

• Vivier Radiance Serum: A multi-purpose antioxidant serum designed to target mild to moderately uneven skin tone while reducing the signs of aging. Formulated with Arbutin and Resorcinol to stimulate cellular turnover and naturally brighten the look of dark spots and 8% Vitamin C to reduce the look of fine lines. Skin looks radiant, with a more even tone and texture. 

• ZO Brightalive®:A revolutionary formula designed to visibly brighten skin tone and improve overall skin clarity. This powerful skin brightener targets various forms of hyperpigmentation, such as age spots, sun damage, and uneven skin tone, to reveal a more radiant complexion. 

• Alastin A-Luminate Brightening Serum™: Helps reduce the appearance of surface pigmentation, minimize recurrence and protect against future damage. 

By adjusting your skincare routine to the changing seasons, you can effectively manage hyperpigmentation while protecting your skin from further damage. Enjoy a bright, even complexion all year round!