What Causes Hyperpigmentation? (+ How to Prevent It)

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns — especially if you’ve ever dealt with acne, sun exposure, or hormonal changes. But what actually causes it?

Let’s break it down in a simple, skin-friendly way.

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☀️ 1. Sun Exposure

The sun is your skin’s worst enemy when it comes to dark spots.
When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it produces more melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) as a defense mechanism. Over time, this leads to sunspots and age spots.

🔒 Prevention Tip: Always wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), even on cloudy days.

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😷 2. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Ever had a pimple that left behind a mark? That’s PIH.
Any inflammation — from acne, cuts, insect bites, or skin irritation — can trigger excess melanin production, especially in deeper skin tones.

🧼 Prevention Tip: Avoid picking your skin, and treat acne gently with calming ingredients like niacinamide or azelaic acid.

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👩‍🦰 3. Hormonal Changes (Melasma)

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation caused by hormone fluctuations — common during pregnancy or from birth control.

It appears as brown or gray-brown patches, typically on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip.

💊 Prevention Tip: Talk to a dermatologist for melasma-safe treatments like tranexamic acid or azelaic acid. And yes, SPF is a must here too.

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💊 4. Certain Medications or Medical Conditions

Some medications (like antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs) and even certain health conditions can trigger darkening of the skin.

⚠️ Tip: If you notice sudden pigmentation changes after starting a new med, consult your doctor or dermatologist.

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👨🏾‍🦱 5. Genetics & Skin Type

Some people are just more prone to pigmentation — especially those with medium to deep skin tones (Fitzpatrick Skin Types IV–VI).

🧬 Tip: Prevention and gentle treatment matter even more for melanated skin.

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🎯 Final Thoughts

Hyperpigmentation isn’t just a cosmetic issue — it’s your skin’s way of protecting itself. But with the right care, consistency, and sun protection, you can fade those dark spots over time.