Hyperpigmentation is one of the most commonly misunderstood skin concerns. While almost everyone experiences it at some point — whether in the form of sunspots, acne scars, or melasma — myths about what causes it, who gets it, and how to treat it are everywhere.
At Dr. Su, we believe that real skincare begins with a clear, science-backed understanding. Let’s debunk some of the most persistent myths around hyperpigmentation so you can make better choices for your skin.
Myth 1: Hyperpigmentation is Only Caused by Sun Exposure
Truth: Yes, UV rays are a major culprit — but they’re not the only one.
While excessive sun exposure can trigger melanin overproduction (especially in uncovered skin), other causes include hormonal changes, inflammation, injury, medication, and lifestyle habits like smoking.
For example:
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Melasma, a type of hyperpigmentation, is often triggered by hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or due to oral contraceptives.
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Smoking can also increase oxidative stress and reduce blood flow to the skin, contributing to dullness and uneven tone.
So while sunscreen is essential, targeting hyperpigmentation often requires looking deeper at your health, habits, and hormone levels.
Myth 2: You Should Avoid the Sun Completely If You Have Hyperpigmentation
Truth: You don’t need to live in the shadows.
Total sun avoidance isn’t realistic (or healthy). What your skin needs is smart sun protection, not total isolation. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) is non-negotiable — even on cloudy days or indoors if you’re near windows.
Additional protection tips:
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Reapply sunscreen every 2–3 hours if outdoors.
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Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing.
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Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
And yes — sunscreen is still necessary for darker skin tones (we’ll get to that myth next!).
Myth 3: Dark Skin Is Immune to Hyperpigmentation
Truth: Darker skin can actually be more prone to hyperpigmentation.
Melanin does offer some natural protection against UV damage, but it also means the skin responds to inflammation, acne, or injury with increased melanin production, resulting in dark spots and uneven tone.
In fact, studies show that post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is more common and often more persistent in medium to deep skin tones. That’s why gentle skincare, barrier support, and anti-inflammatory ingredients are especially important for melanated skin.
Myth 4: All Hyperpigmentation Is the Same
Truth: Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term, and not all dark spots are created equal.
Understanding the type of hyperpigmentation you’re dealing with can help determine the right treatment approach. Here’s a quick breakdown:
• Sunspots (Solar Lentigines):
Caused by prolonged sun exposure, these flat, brown spots are most common on the face, hands, and arms.
• Melasma:
Often hormonal in origin, melasma appears as symmetric patches on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It can be tricky to treat and tends to worsen with heat and light exposure.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):
This occurs after trauma to the skin — like acne, eczema, or burns — and often appears as dark marks left behind after healing.
• Pigmentary Demarcation Lines (PDL):
These are naturally occurring lines where there's a sharp contrast between lighter and darker skin, often seen on the arms, legs, or face. More common in deeper skin tones, they may become more noticeable during pregnancy or sun exposure.
Each type requires a tailored skincare plan, often involving melanin-regulating ingredients, barrier repair, and strict sun protection.
Myth 5: Hyperpigmentation Can Be “Scrubbed” or Peeled Away Instantly
Truth: Over-exfoliating can actually make things worse.
Aggressive scrubs or harsh peels may temporarily brighten skin, but they often damage the barrier, leading to inflammation and rebound pigmentation. That’s why slow and steady is key.
Look for gentle, evidence-based ingredients such as:
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Niacinamide – Regulates melanin transfer and reduces inflammation
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Tranexamic Acid – A newer, well-tolerated ingredient that targets melasma
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Azelaic Acid – Calms inflammation and works well on PIH
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Alpha Arbutin or Kojic Acid – Botanical brighteners that are safer alternatives to hydroquinone
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Retinoids – Promote cell turnover and even out tone (with proper guidance)
And always pair active treatments with broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent rebound pigmentation.
Myth 6: If It's Not Fading, It Must Be Permanent
Truth: With patience and the right regimen, most hyperpigmentation can fade.
Hyperpigmentation can be stubborn — especially melasma or deep dermal spots — but that doesn’t mean it's untreatable. In many cases, with consistent skincare, visible results can be seen in 8–12 weeks.
A few things to keep in mind:
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Avoid picking or popping acne — this triggers PIH.
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Stick to non-comedogenic, fragrance-free products to prevent flare-ups.
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Seek professional guidance if pigmentation worsens or if you’re unsure about what type you're dealing with.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Su
Hyperpigmentation doesn’t have to be a lifelong concern, but fighting it starts with understanding the science, not falling for skincare myths.
Whether you're dealing with melasma, sunspots, or post-acne marks, building a routine around sun protection, gentle actives, and skin barrier support can help you see real change over time.
Need personalized help navigating pigmentation issues? Discover Dr. Su’s expert-formulated solutions for sensitive and pigmented skin, carefully crafted with science, safety, and Indian skin types in mind.