Dull skin, uneven skin tone and dark spots are a result of pigmentation, but what is pigmentation? Pigmentation refers to the abnormal production of melanin in the skin, which causes the skin to appear darker in some areas than others.

When people talk about pigmentation, they are usually referring to hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation refers to having too much pigment in an area of the skin. Hyperpigmentation commonly presents itself as dark spots, and is usually located on the face, but it can also appear on the body. On the other hand, hypopigmentation is the opposite, where the skin has too little pigment. Hypopigmentation may include Albinism, Vitiligo and result from a skin injury. Hypopigmentation may occur all over the body or in one area of the skin. They usually appear as white patches over the skin.

There are a number of factors that contribute to pigmentation, including UV exposure, hormones, acne, pregnancy, genetics, and skin injuries. Over time sun exposure can worsen existing pigmentation and cause new pigmentation.

Using a pigmentation serum can help lighten hyperpigmentation, as it hinders melanin combining in the melanocytes, which reduces pigments existing in skin cells. Some of the best ingredients to look out for to treat hyperpigmentation include Vitamin C, Retinol, Mandelic Acid, Azelaic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Kojic Acid.

Finding the right pigmentation serum for your skin can be overwhelming. Our pigmentation serum guide can take you through the different ingredients that help fight pigmentation, and how to find the right pigmentation serum for you!

The Best Serum For Pigmentation

Aspect Exfol L 

The Aspect Exfol L features a few different Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) including Lactic Acid, Sugar Cane Extract and Maple Extract, to exfoliate and calm the skin, resulting in a smoother complexion. The serum also includes a combination of Australian active botanical ingredients, including Kakadu Plum Extract, Davidson Plum and Desert Lime, to help deliver antioxidants and vitamins to the skin. Over time skin should be smoother, refined and visibly brighter.

This serum is suitable for all skin types, including those with dry or dehydrated skin, acne prone skin and oily skin. It is also suitable for use when pregnant or when breastfeeding. This gentle, yet effective vegan exfoliant is formulated without animal products, SLS, parabens and synthetic fragrance.

The Aspect Exfol L can only be used at night. It is recommended to apply 1 pump onto cleansed skin, before other serums and follow with moisturiser. For those with sensitive skin or rosacea, it is recommended to gradually introduce this serum by using it every second night in the first week. As this serum includes AHAs, ensure your skin is protected when using this exfoliant by wearing a broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen like the Aspect Sun Envirostat On The Go SPF50 in the daytime.

Cosmedix Simply Brilliant

The Cosmedix Simply Brilliant is a high strength serum that features Lactic Acid and Salicylic Acid to improve skin texture and treat uneven skin complexion. Formulated in combination with Ferulic Acid and Ascorbic Acid, which aids in brightening the skin and neutralising damage from free radicals caused by the environment. This powerful brightening serum is also packed with plant-based ingredients like Green Tea Extract and Black Mulberry Fruit Extract to soothe and calm the skin. The benefits of the Cosmedix Simply Brilliant serum includes smoothed fine lines and wrinkles, even skin tone with the appearance of acne scars, dark spots and hyperpigmentation reduced, and improved skin texture.

This serum is best for targeting all types of hyperpigmentation, melasma and sun damage. It is recommended for those with acne prone skin, and those looking to treat signs of ageing including age spots. Formulated without arbutin and hydroquinone, this serum is free from artificial fragrances, gluten and does not test on animals.

For those with melasma or resistant pigmentation, it is recommended to apply a pea-sized amount onto cleansed skin day and night. Follow through with moisturiser and a high protection sunscreen to ensure best results.

Aspect Pigment Punch +

The Aspect Pigment Punch + is formulated with Tyrostat, a stellar ingredient that targets pigmented skin to brighten, clarify and smooth the skin. Other notable ingredients include Daisy Flower Extract, Vitamin C and Kakadu Plum, to help reduce wrinkles and brighten the skin. Regular use should result in smoother skin and a clearer complexion.

It is suitable for all types of skin, particularly those with concerns of an uneven complexion, sun spots and signs of ageing, like wrinkles and fine lines. It is also safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Like most Aspect products, the Pigment Punch is formulated without animal products, SLS, parabens and synthetic fragrances.

This serum is suitable for morning and night use. Apply 1 pump of serum onto cleansed skin. This serum can be mixed with other Aspect serums to enhance benefits to the skin. For best results, use in conjunction with a broad spectrum product from the Aspect Sun range, like the Envirostat On The Go SPF50.

Neoretin Discrom Serum Booster Fluid

The Neoretin Discrom Serum Booster Fluid is formulated with four key ingredients including Retinol, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid and Salicylic Acid. Retinol is a form of Vitamin A and acts as an antioxidant, that smoothes wrinkles and firms the skin. The Retinol in this serum is slow release, meaning it continues to slowly release in the face over time. It is commonly found in anti-ageing products and helps reduce wrinkles by increasing collagen production. Niacinamide is a great ingredient for improving dull skin and reducing the appearance of pores. Originating from the fermentation process of malting rice, Kojic Acid is a great antioxidant that effectively brightens the skin. Salicylic Acid is a powerful leave-on treatment that has anti-blemish properties, including exfoliating the skin to alleviate blackheads and congestion. With continual use, expect exfoliated and renewed skin, with acne and wrinkles smoothed and skin appearing visibly brighter. The Neoretin Discrom Serum Booster Fluid prevents melanin formation, fades dark spots and evens skin tone.

It is recommended for all types of skin, including normal, dry, oily and sensitive skin. It is suitable for treating enlarged pores, wrinkles and lines, dull skin, melasma, pigmentation and anti-ageing signs. It is not suitable to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The serum can be used in the morning or evening. Apply a small amount onto a cleansed face and neck. When using this serum, a broad spectrum with SPF50 must be applied daily. Consider using the Dermaceutic K Ceutic SPF50 as it is soothing and hydrating, formulated with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E.

PCA C&E Advanced 

The PCA C&E Advanced is an advanced serum formulated with high strength Vitamin C, Retinyl Palmitate and Vitamin E. The Vitamin C helps prevent the skin from darkening. The Retinyl Palmitate is a combination of Retinol (Vitamin A) and Palmitic acid, a fatty acid. It is an antioxidant that protects the skin against UV exposure. Vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps protect the skin cells from free radical damage. Over time dark spots will be reduced, the skin barrier will strengthen and future discolouration is prevented.

This serum is recommended for those who have become accustomed to Vitamin C usage and are looking to take the next step. It is not suitable for those with sensitive or impaired skin.

The PCA C&E Advanced can be used in the morning, by applying a pea-sized amount to the face and neck, after cleansing and toning. It is common to experience a slight tingling sensation when applying the serum. For best results, finish with an appropriate SPF product.

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum 

The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is another fantastic serum that combines Vitamin E and Vitamin C to create a high potency pigmentation serum. Combining pure Vitamin C with Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid enhances protection against free radical damage due to environmental aggressors. With frequent use, you can expect even toned skin, pigment lightening and an improvement in firmness.

This serum is ideal for normal and dry skin types and recommended for those looking for a Vitamin C serum to fade existing dark spots and brighten skin. It is formulated without parabens, fragrance, synthetic dyes and phthalates.

The SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Serum is best applied in the morning, after cleansing and toning. For optimum results, apply 4 to 5 drops onto dry skin. This serum can be used on the chest, face and neck. To continue to see brilliant results, use in conjunction with the SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50, a hydrating, non-comedogenic, lightweight sunscreen ideal for all types of skin.

Aspect Dr Complete Pigment Plus

The Aspect Dr Complete Pigment Plus is an advanced formula with Tranexamic Acid and Tyrostat. Tranexamic Acid is ideal for reducing skin redness, fading dark spots and works best with oil-soluble ingredients to improvement skin penetration. Tyrostat helps reduce skin pigmentation by decreasing melanin production and redness, to reveal an even complexion. The benefits of the Aspect Dr Complete Pigment Plus includes minimising age spots and acne scarring, the ability to fade dark spots and prevents future pigmentation from forming.

It is suitable for all types of skin, and ideal for those looking to address concerns of pigmentation, uneven skin and signs of ageing. This serum is vegan friendly, and formulated without synthetic fragrance, SLS, parabens and animal products.

This serum is ideal for use in the morning and night. Gently smooth 1 pump onto the skin and always use a high protection sunscreen when using this product. Like most Aspect Dr products, this serum can be used in conjunction with other products from the brand.

FAQ

What is the main reason for pigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation refers to uneven pigments in the skin, caused by increasing melanin production. There are different types of pigmentation, including dark spots, melasma, freckles and post-acne marks. These can appear as spots or patches, and makes the skin look uneven.

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by a number of reasons, including sun exposure, hormones, age, medication, disease and skin injuries.

Can pigmentation be removed?

The appearance of hyperpigmentation can be reduced through treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, topical lightening agents, pigmentation fighting serums, and by adding a broad spectrum sunscreen into your skincare routine.

By taking preventative measures, over time you will be able to fade pigmentation and achieve glowing skin.

What serum is best for hyperpigmentation?

When it comes to what to look for in a serum for hyperpigmentation, it is vital to look at the ingredients. It is recommended to find a serum with a high concentration of active ingredients. Be careful to not use too many new products at once, as combining multiple active ingredients can lead to over-exfoliation and cause skin irritation.

Choose a serum that best suits your needs and trial it for a few months before deciding whether it works or not. Cell turnover occurs every 28-40 days and by trialling a serum for a few months will give you a better gauge as to whether the serum is working for you.

For optimum results, use a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF50+ everyday in conjunction with your hyperpigmentation serum. This will help prevent hyperpigmentation from forming.

How can I get rid of dark spots on my face?

Dark spots can be reduced by introducing Retinol products, laser treatments, chemical peels, chemical exfoliants with active ingredients such as Tranexamic Acid, and by implementing targeted treatments like a Vitamin C serum. Over time dark spots will fade and skin will appear brighter and healthier.

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade?

This will depend on the severity of the dark skin, how much the hyperpigmentation covers and the type of treatment.

New skin cells are formed around every 28 days, which is why hyperpigmentation has the potential to fade over time, though this depends on the severity.

However, darker skin tones may take longer to fade, as the skin retains about 20% of its old composition. With the remaining 20% of pigmented cells, it takes longer for pigmentation to fade.

When it comes to fading dark spots and treating pigmentation, a targeted serum with active ingredients can aid in minimising the appearance of uneven skin. However, taking preventative measures like using a broad spectrum sunscreen daily, will protect your skin against UV damage, and minimise hyperpigmentation occurring.

Please perform a patch test before using a new skincare product and discontinue use if irritation occurs. Some serums with higher concentrations of actives may not be suited for sensitive skin.

Skincare does not work overnight, therefore it is best to use a serum for a few months before deciding whether it works or not. Using multiple new serums at once may cause irritation due to over-exfoliating the skin. If irritation occurs, please discontinue use of the product.

Shop our pigmentation skincare range here.

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