Skin naturally changes with the seasons, that’s nothing new. But for those prone to hyperpigmentation, summer brings extra challenges: High UV, pollution and heat all make dark spots, melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation more visible, stubborn and difficult to manage.
“There’s no quick fix for hyperpigmentation and complete removal is difficult. The right daily habits and skincare routine, though, make a remarkable difference in visibly fading dark patches, preventing recurrence and keeping hyperpigmentation under control - naturally.”
Dr Mazin, our Founder
These are our Dermatologist Founder, Dr Mazin’s top summer hyperpigmentation tips:
1. Daily SPF diligence
“If you’re prone to hyperpigmentation, using a daily broad spectrum SPF is non-negotiable. SPF is your first line of defence. Without it, dark spots return - plain and simple.”
Dr Mazin, our Founder
Unprotected UV exposure is the leading cause of pigmentation, triggering heightened melanin production to help protect skin. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF30+ sunscreen daily - ideally a mineral-based formula with a physical UV blocker like zinc oxide which is both gentler on sensitive skin and reflects, rather than absorbs, UV.
In addition, seek shade if you can between 11am-3pm when UV is at its strongest. If heading out, apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes prior and reapply every two hours or after swimming.
2. Clean up
“Skin prone to hyperpigmentation is challenged by more than just UV. Pollution, which is usually worse in summer, can irritate, inflame and trigger melanin production if not removed properly.”
Dr Mazin, our Founder
Reach for Nourishing Cleansing Balm. Especially ideal if skin feels sensitive or reactive after a day in the sun, our 100% complex clears all traces of SPF, daily dirt and pollution build-up while deeply soothing skin. Better still, it contains Dong Quai (Female Ginseng), an active renowned in Chinese Herbal Medicine for enhancing microcirculation and alleviating pigmentation.
3. Rethink exfoliation
Chemical facial peels are a common treatment choice for tackling pigmentation. While they can temporarily accelerate exfoliation and skin cell renewal, they often leave skin more vulnerable to UV exposure and irritation - which can worsen melanin production. Instead, focus on gentle, non-abrasive and consistent exfoliation.
Brightening Mask harnesses a botanical Alpha Hydroxy Acid complex of blueberries, oranges, lemons, sugar cane and sugar maple. Smoothed on skin and left for 15 minutes once a week, it stimulates cell turnover, refines texture and visibly brightens tone - no scrubbing or sensitivity.
4. Zone in on dark spots
“We don’t believe in lengthy or complicated skincare routines. However, adding in this targeted treatment step can make a huge difference to the results you see on sun spots, melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation...”
Dr Mazin, our Founder
Dark Spot Brightening Tincture harnesses Dong Quai (Female Ginseng), Dan Shen (Red Sage) and Zi Cao (Redroot) - actives chosen by us due to their long use in Chinese Herbal Medicine for helping soothe and balance skin while visibly brightening pigmentation. Lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing, it fits easily into your morning and evening skincare routines.
5. Renewal, day and night
Hydration makes a big difference to skin clarity, smoothness and tone - more so if you have pigmentation. Dark Spot Brightening Cream combines powerfully hydrating Hyaluronic Acid with a trio of active brighteners; Vitamin C, Peony Root and Bakuchiol - a herbal retinol alternative proven to brighten without the sun sensitivity or irritation associated with retinol. Used morning and evening, it supports cell renewal, visibly brightens, refines and revives plump, super-smooth skin.
For enhanced overnight results, layer on Bakuchiol Face Oil. Our award-winning, antioxidant complex blends Bakuchiol with Vitamin E, Rosehip and Hemp Oils to intensely rejuvenate, smooth, plump and brighten by morning.
6. Support brighter skin from within
Lifestyles affect pigmentation too. Skin reflects what you eat while poor sleep can trigger hormonal imbalance that contributes to melasma (it isn’t called beauty sleep for nothing!)
Eat a diet rich in antioxidant foods like berries, leafy greens and citrus fruits plus zinc- and vitamin a-rich sweet potato, pumpkin seeds and lean meat. Avoid high levels of sugar and ultra-processed food, as these can increase inflammation and worsen hyperpigmentation.
7-9 hours of sleep ensures the body’s repair cycle runs fully, plus avoid late-night screens - blue light disrupts sleep and stimulates melanin-producing melanocytes, so can worsen pigmentation.
A final word
As we said at the start, there’s no quick cure for hyperpigmentation. With consistency, patience and the right skincare routine, skin will become visibly clearer, smoother and more even-looking over time - without compromising comfort along the way.
Dark Spot Brightening Set - transformative results for pigmentation
Save £13 on our dermatologist-designed routine. Featuring Dark Spot Brightening Tincture and Cream plus Brightening Mask, this synergistic trio refines, soothes and evens skin tone - fast.
If you’d like help choosing the best products for your skin type, take our Skin Quiz.
