Posted by Neal's Yard Remedies
on November 14, 2025
At Neal’s Yard Remedies, we understand that hyperpigmentation is more than just a surface concern. It’s often a reflection of imbalances in the body, such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, or even lifestyle factors.
Our natural and organic skincare solutions are carefully crafted to help your skin look and feel its best, supporting its health from within. We believe in a holistic approach to skincare that nurtures and balances your skin, helping it to feel restored.
Follow us to learn more about hyperpigmentation, its causes, and holistic solutions to care for your skin naturally.
Table of Contents
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is when certain areas of your skin become darker due to increased melanin production. It commonly appears as dark spots or patches that can develop on any part of the body, often as a result of sun exposure, acne scarring, or hormonal changes. While hyperpigmentation is typically harmless, it can affect how we feel about our skin, which is why understanding its causes and learning how to care for it holistically is so important.
Types and Causes of Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation occurs when excess melanin is produced in certain areas of the skin, leading to dark spots or patches. There are several types of hyperpigmentation, each triggered by different factors:
- Sunspots (Age Spots): Caused by prolonged sun exposure, these spots are commonly found on areas like the face, hands, and shoulders. UV rays stimulate melanin production, which leads to darker areas of the skin.
- Melasma: Often linked to hormonal changes, melasma appears as brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the face. It can be triggered by pregnancy, birth control, or other hormonal fluctuations.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): This type occurs after the skin has healed from an injury, acne, or inflammation, leaving behind dark spots as the skin recovers. The inflammation triggers melanin production, resulting in pigmentation.
- Freckles: Small, brown spots that typically appear on the face and shoulders due to increased melanin production. These are more common in individuals with fair skin and are often triggered or darkened by sun exposure.
Each type of hyperpigmentation can be triggered by different factors. Common causes include sun exposure, hormonal changes, and skin inflammation. Genetics may also influence how prone you are to developing these spots. By understanding the underlying causes, you can tailor your skincare routine to best support your skin’s needs.
Lifestyle Tips for Living with Hyperpigmentation
Living with hyperpigmentation can feel frustrating, but by embracing a holistic approach, you can support your skin in the best possible way. Here are a few lifestyle tips to help manage hyperpigmentation:
- Sun protection is key: An important step you can take to prevent worsening hyperpigmentation, is to protect your skin from the sun. Always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours.
- Hydrate and nourish: Proper hydration is essential for healthy skin. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin moisturised and support its natural function.
- Avoid rubbing or scratching the skin: This can cause inflammation and trigger post-inflammatory pigmentation.
- Manage stress: Stress can have an impact on your skin’s overall health. Try incorporating relaxation practices, such as aromatherapy or mindful breathing, into your routine to help manage stress and promote skin health. You can explore our essential oils collection, such as calming lavender and chamomile, to promote relaxation.
- Sleep well: Adequate rest allows your skin to repair itself. Sleep supports the skin’s natural healing process, helping to reduce inflammation and balance the skin.
- Book a facial: Treat your skin to a professional facial at Neal’s Yard Remedies. Our facials use natural and organic ingredients designed to nurture and replenish your skin. They’re a great way to relax while giving your skin the attention it deserves.
- Enjoy herbal teas: Drinking herbal teas can help soothe your mind and promote overall skin health. The antioxidants in these teas can support your skin’s natural radiance and provide a calming ritual to complement your skincare routine.
Skincare Routine for Hyperpigmentation
A consistent skincare routine is key to managing hyperpigmentation and helping your skin feel its best. By using gentle, nourishing products, you can help your skin maintain its natural balance while gradually reducing the appearance of dark spots.
1. Cleansing
Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and makeup without disturbing your skin’s natural moisture. This step helps maintain balance, preparing your skin for the next stages of your routine. Look for a cleanser with soothing ingredients to calm the skin, especially after sun exposure or irritation.
2. Toning
After cleansing, apply a hydrating toner to help rebalance your skin's pH levels and prepare it for treatment. A calming toner will refresh your skin while providing hydration, making it more receptive to the next steps in your routine.
3. Targeted Care
For hyperpigmentation, consider adding a treatment or serum to your routine that targets dark spots and aims to brighten the skin. Look for products with Vitamin C, such as our Vitamin C Brightening Booster which is known for its brightening properties and can help to promote a more even complexion. You can also use rosehip oil, packed with essential fatty acids, which is known to help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of scars and pigmentation over time.
4. Moisturising
Even with hyperpigmentation, your skin still needs hydration. Choose a moisturiser that provides lightweight yet effective moisture, ensuring your skin stays soft and balanced without feeling heavy or greasy. Hydrated skin is healthier and better able to regenerate, helping to reduce the appearance of dark spots over time. Consider our Wild Rose Glow Day Cream, which visibly helps to improve the look of your skin’s natural radiance while providing essential hydration.
5. Sunscreen
The most important step in preventing further pigmentation is applying sunscreen daily. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays, which can worsen existing dark spots. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF to ensure maximum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Daily sun protection is essential in managing hyperpigmentation. By following this skincare routine with our carefully blended products, you can help care for your skin and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
Conclusion
While hyperpigmentation is a common concern, it’s usually harmless and can be managed. By embracing a holistic skincare routine with natural ingredients, you can help care for your skin and gently improve the look of dark spots. Protecting your skin from sun damage, nourishing it with the right ingredients, and keeping a consistent, gentle routine will help maintain its natural balance and vitality.
FAQs
What can cause hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by several factors, including sun exposure, hormonal changes, acne scars, inflammation, and genetics. Sun exposure is one of the leading causes, as UV rays stimulate melanin production, while hormonal fluctuations can lead to conditions like melasma.
Can hyperpigmentation be fully treated?
Hyperpigmentation can take time to fade, but with consistent care and the right approach, you can help reduce the appearance of dark spots. A gentle, consistent skincare routine can help maintain your skin’s natural balance and leave it feeling healthy and cared for.
Are there any natural remedies for hyperpigmentation?
Yes, ingredients like vitamin C, known for its brightening properties, may help improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation over time. Consistency and patience are important for seeing results. Rosehip oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids, is also commonly used to support skin recovery and may help with the appearance of dark spots.
Can sunscreen prevent hyperpigmentation?
Yes, sunscreen is one of the most important steps in preventing further pigmentation, especially from sun exposure. It protects the skin from harmful UV rays, which can worsen existing dark spots.
How long does it take to see improvements in hyperpigmentation?
It can take several weeks or months to see improvements in hyperpigmentation, depending on its cause and the treatment used. Consistent care with nourishing products can help support your skin’s natural healing.
Can stress cause hyperpigmentation?
While stress doesn’t directly cause hyperpigmentation, it can contribute to inflammation, which may worsen existing pigmentation. Practicing relaxation techniques, like aromatherapy and mindfulness, can help manage stress and support your skin's health.
