The Best Products For Targeting Hyperpigmentation, According To Australian Women

Ever taken a closer look at yourself in the mirror than would be advised, and discovered a serious amount of discolouration in the process? You’re not the only one.

Hyperpigmentation is a seriously common skin issue that affects just about everyone, because it’s caused by a wide range of things that are kind of hard to avoid. But thankfully, if your dark spots are really bothering you, there are always alternatives to staring wistfully at your own reflection wondering where it all went wrong.

Here, beautyheaven chats to Dr. Richard Betts (Scientific Director at L’Oréal Paris) and Dr. Lee-Mei Yap (L’Oréal Paris Dermatologist) about how to identify hyperpigmentation and it’s causes, as well as, how to prevent and minimise it using brightening skin care and in-clinic treatments.

What is hyperpigmentation?

“Skin pigmentation refers to the colour or tone of the skin, which is largely determined by the levels of melanin produced by a special pigmenting cell called the melanocyte,” Dr. Richard Betts tells beautyheaven.

“We don’t want to prevent skin pigmentation itself, because melanin within the skin has a critical role in protecting the skin from the effects of UV,” explains Richard. “Where issues arise is with hyperpigmentation; where there is an excess of melanin within patches or spots of the skin which result in an uneven skin tone.”

Can you prevent hyperpigmentation from occurring?

“This hyperpigmentation can have multiple causes, ranging from UV exposure, genetics, acne, aging, hormones or sometimes exposure to drugs or chemicals,” Richard tells us. “Managing these triggers where possible, and protecting ourselves from UV, is the best first step in preventing hyperpigmentation.”

What are the best ingredients for preventing or minimising the appearance of it?

“The first step is to protect ourselves from the effects of UV,” Richard tells us. “No matter what the cause of the hyperpigmentation, exposure to UV has the potential to make it worse.”

The next step is to look at cosmetic actives and products that can help fight the excess melanin accumulation that leads to the dark spots, he explains.

“For example, Melasyl is the revolutionary molecule in L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal serum which precisely targets excess melanin, without alerting the natural skin tone,” says Richard. “[It’s] the the result of 18 years of research and over 120 different studies.”

Other ingredients to look out for on your skin care products ingredients list are hydroquinone, retinol or bakuchiol, azelaic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide.

What are the most effective in-clinic skin treatments?

“Hyperpigmentation is a common and multi-factorial skin concern influenced by sun exposure, hormones, inflammation, and genetics. Effective management often requires a holistic approach, combining targeted skincare, consistent sun protection, and in-clinic treatments,” L’Oréal Paris Dermatologist, Dr. Lee-Mei Yap, tells beautyheaven.

“The choice of in-clinic treatments depends on the type and severity of hyperpigmentation, the patient’s Fitzpatrick skin type, and their tolerance for downtime,” she went on to say.

“Laser treatments can be highly effective, but careful patient selection is crucial,” Lee-Mei explains. “Low-strength clinical peels can also be beneficial for mild to moderate pigmentation, but typically require multiple sessions for optimal results.”

“A targeted skincare routine is essential to support and maintain in-clinic results — this includes daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen and pigment-correcting ingredients,” she shares with us.

What are the best skin care products for hyperpigmentation?

Best Serum: L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum

from $29.99 at Chemist Warehouse

“An anti-dark spot serum such as L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal containing highly effective, clinically proven ingredients like Melasyl is a critical part of any anti-hyperpigmentation regimen to help fight the excess melanin that leads to uneven skin tone and prevent dark spot reoccurrence,” says Richard. “This always needs to be followed by a broad-spectrum sunscreen to minimise UV-induced exacerbation of hyperpigmentation and help prevent new dark spots from forming.”

Review: “If one has any dark spots that they would love to be rid of this [serum] is the way to go. So easy to use — it’s not sticky or oily — and can easily be used under makeup. You are advised to avoid the eye area, but otherwise it spreads easily, and leaves the skin feeling great. Because it is compatible with makeup you can use it day and night.” — Normap

Read more L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum reviews

Key features:

Reduces the appearance of dark spots, sun spots, age spots, and post-acne marks
Brightens skin and evens skin tone
Contains hyperpigmentation-targeting active ingredient Melasyl™, niacinamide and amino-sulfonic acid
Can be used on the face, neck and hands

Available at:

• $29.99 from Chemist Warehouse
• $29.99 from Priceline
• $36 from Woolworths

Best Moisturiser: Neutrogena Visible Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream

from $27.50 at Big W

Ideal for retinol newbies, this nourishing cream formula targets the first signs of ageing, minimising the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. As well as helping to firm the skin, and promote a more youthful-looking appearance over time.

Review: “This cream is a literal potion in a bottle. I started with a tiny pea-sized amount of the cream at night one to two times a week (as someone with sensitive skin you need to introduce it slowly). The texture of the cream is lovely and has a very light scent. I noticed the cream had an affect on my skin — it helped my hyper pigmentation — [and] the retinol component in the cream is actually not too harsh for sensitive skin, especially if you introduce with small quantities.” — Shali_Nialler

Read more Neutrogena Visible Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream reviews

Key features:

Targets the first signs of ageing, including dark spots
Promotes a more radiant and youthful-looking complexion
Hydrates and firms skin
Safe for retinol beginners

Available at:

• $27.50 from Big W
• $38.39 from Chemist Warehouse
• $55 from Woolworths

Best Face Mask: Habitual Beauty Hydrating Sleep Mask

from $95 at Sephora

This hydrating sleep mask uses a cocktail of antioxidant-rich ingredients to brighten, hydrate and unify the complexion. Use the refining formula two to three times a week to see an improvement in skin tone and texture, and overall radiance.

Review: “I love waking up with glowing, plump, bouncy, firm looking skin and [this mask] delivers! [It’s] rich, nourishing, a cute shade of pastel purple (love that), and the best part is that it works its magic while you sleep. It is full of soothing ingredients and the scent of this mask is divine (it is slightly zesty). Definitely relaxing and very spa like, [and] so easy to use [too]. I applied the overnight mask twice a week and then cleansed with a warm cloth in the morning. I high recommend that you treat yourself and try it so you can wake up radiant and fresh faced in the morning.” — Sparkle 77

Read more Habitual Beauty Hydrating Sleep Mask reviews

Key features:

Enriched with probiotics, vitamins, grape skin extract, niacinamide and Kakadu plum
Enhances radiance and improves hydration
Evens skin tone and smooths texture
Can be worn overnight as a sleep mask or for a few hours as a rinse off mask

Available at:

• $95 from Sephora

Best Eye Treatment: No7 Radiance+ Eye Masks

from $22.99 at Priceline

Find that your under eyes are hyperpigmentation hot spots? Honestly, same. These easy to apply hydrogel eye masks can be worn for a cool 15 minutes to address dark circles, as well as dark spots. Though we suggest siphoning as much serum from the sachet as possible, so you can pat it on under your eyes, and let it work it’s magic.

Review: “Sometimes with hydrogel masks I feel like I don’t get much serum or product, but these definitely make me feel like I am getting serum [under] my eyes. I always leave these on for as long as I can, but on average about 15 minutes. Post use my eye area is always depuffed, smoothed and really fresh. It always brightens my eye area and removes dark circles. I’ve used a pack of these [for] over a month and have definitely noticed a slight difference in my eye area in terms of pigmentation and fine lines. I like to use these before events or a pick me up.” — ray_jay

Read more No7 Radiance+ Eye Masks reviews

Key features:

Reduces the appearance of darkness under the eyes
Brightens dull and tired-looking under eyes
Hydrogel eye masks infused with a radiance-enhancing serum
Recommended to be worn for up to 15 minutes for best results

Available at:

• $22.99 from Priceline

Best Toner/Essence: Estée Lauder Micro Essence Treatment Lotion With Bio-Ferment

from $120 at MYER

Gentle, lightweight and easy to integrate into your existing skin care routine, this essence promises to improve the overall clarity and texture of skin over time. It also addresses the first signs of ageing, minimising the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.

Review: “Fresh, soothing, very natural… I apply three to four drops on my skin after cleansing — once in the morning, once at night — before [applying] serum and moisturiser. Have come to absolutely love the fresh intense burst of hydration after cleansing my skin… Love how it immediately feels refreshed and soothed [and] absorbs easily, leaving no sticky [residue] behind. Almost the same consistency as water… Overall my skin is much softer, smoother, stays hydrated all day long and looks much clearer.” — Michelle240

Read more Estée Lauder Micro Essence Treatment Lotion With Bio-Ferment reviews

Key features:

Minimises the appearance of the first signs of ageing, including dark spots and hyperpigmentation
Enriched with micro-nutrient bio-ferments and peptides
Promotes a hydrated, smoothed and supple appearance

Available at:

• $120 from MYER
• $120 from David Jones
• $120 from Sephora

Best Face Oil: Vanessa Megan Metamorphosis Re-Gen Cell Repair Oil with Bakuchiol

from $145 at Vanessa Megan

Want to reap all the benefits of retinol without the risk of irritation? The powerful anti-ager’s natural alternative, Bakuchiol, is this restorative face oil’s hero ingredient. Massage this nourishing pick into skin to see an improvement on the overall appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and dull skin.

Review: “This lightweight oil absorbs quickly, promoting increased collagen production and enhanced cell turnover to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Its non-irritating formula provides deep hydration and fortifies the skin’s natural barrier, leaving the complexion smoother, firmer, and more radiant. Ideal for daily use, this oil is a transformative addition to any anti-ageing skincare routine, delivering both immediate moisture and long-term repair benefits for a revitalised, youthful glow.” — Jemma128

Read more Vanessa Megan Metamorphosis Re-Gen Cell Repair Oil with Bakuchiol reviews

Key features:

Contains bakuchiol, a natural and non-irritating alternative to retinol
Enriched with vitamin E, P and K, as well as, zinc and omega 3, 6 and 9
Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation
Suitable for sensitive skin

Available at:

• $145 from Vanessa Megan

Best Cleanser: Elucent Even Tone Exfoliating Cleanser

from $32.49 at Chemist Warehouse

This soap-free cleanser is ideal for targeting hyperpigmentation as it has been formulated with brightening and nourishing ingredients like safflower seed extract and phyllanthus emblica fruit extract. The gentle cleanser works away any buildup on your skin with the inclusion of exfoliating beads to reveal brighter, smoother more radiant skin.

Review: “I received the Elucent Even Tone Exfoliating Cleanser as part of the Best In Beauty Event.I was keen to trial it as I have very dry skin and I often find some cleansers too harsh. This exfoliating cleanser was very gentle, a little goes a long way and I was really impressed that it gave a great clean without stripping my skin.I have a few dreaded age and sun spots starting to show on my face and I can honestly say that this cleanser in combination with the Elucent night cream has really made a difference and they have faded and my complexion is brighter and radiant. I will continue to use and purchase this product as I think it really delivers.” — lara1

Read more Elucent Even Tone Dark Sport Corrector Reviews…

Key features:

Enriched with vitamins B3, C and E
Works to improve skin elasticity
Gentle exfoliating beads

Available at:

• $32.49 at Chemist Warehouse

Main image credit: @hoskelsa

Do you have a favourite product for targeting hyperpigmentation?