Understanding Hyperpigmentation

Why it happens, what it looks like, and how we treat it

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns we see and one of the most misunderstood. At its core, hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces too much melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. This excess pigment can settle unevenly, creating darker patches or spots that don’t fade on their own.

The good news? Hyperpigmentation is treatable. The key is understanding what type you have and what triggered it before choosing the right approach.

The Different Types of Hyperpigmentation

Sun-Induced Pigmentation (Sun Spots / Solar Lentigines)

These flat brown or tan spots often appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, chest, hands, and shoulders. They develop gradually over time due to cumulative UV exposure and are common as we age.

Common triggers:
  • Chronic sun exposure
  • Inconsistent or inadequate SPF use
  • Tanning beds

Melasma

Melasma appears as symmetrical brown or gray-brown patches, most often on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and jawline. It’s deeply influenced by hormones and can be stubborn if not treated correctly.

Melasma requires a gentle, strategic approach. Aggressive treatments can worsen it if not properly tailored.

Common triggers:
  • Pregnancy
  • Birth control or hormone therapy
  • Sun and heat exposure
  • Genetic predisposition

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

PIH develops after the skin experiences inflammation or injury. This includes acne, eczema, bug bites, or even aggressive treatments. The skin remembers the trauma and responds by depositing excess pigment as it heals.

PIH can affect all skin tones, but deeper skin tones are more prone and may hold pigment longer without proper care.

Freckling

Freckles are small, concentrated pigment clusters often influenced by genetics and sun exposure. While they’re harmless, sun exposure can make them darker and more noticeable over time.

Common triggers:
  • Acne breakouts
  • Picking or scratching the skin
  • Burns or irritation
  • Certain cosmetic treatments
Common triggers:
  • Genetics
  • UV exposure

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation isn’t caused by just one thing. Often, it’s a combination of internal and external factors:

  • Sun exposure without consistent protection
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Inflammation or trauma to the skin
  • Improper skincare or over-exfoliation
  • Genetics
  • Heat exposure (especially for melasma)

This is why one-size-fits-all treatments rarely work and sometimes make pigment worse.

Why Professional Treatment Matters

Pigmentation lives at different depths in the skin, and treating it incorrectly can trigger rebound pigmentation. At Blu Monarch, we assess:

  • Your skin type and tone
  • The type and depth of pigmentation
  • Lifestyle factors (sun exposure, hormones, skincare habits)

From there, we create a custom treatment plan that may include medical-grade facials, chemical peels, microneedling, advanced Hydrafacial protocols, and targeted homecare to safely correct pigment while strengthening the skin barrier.

The Takeaway

Hyperpigmentation isn’t just a surface issue, it’s a skin response. When we understand the cause, we can treat it effectively and prevent it from returning.

If you’re struggling with dark spots, uneven tone, or stubborn pigmentation, the solution isn’t harsher products. It’s smarter care, guided treatments, and consistency.

✨ Healthy, even skin starts with the right strategy.