Hyperpigmentation Types Explained: Sun Spots, Melasma, PIH & PIE
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns across all skin types and tones. But while many people call everything a “dark spot,” pigmentation is actually a wide category with several different causes — and each type requires its own treatment strategy.
Whether you're dealing with sun damage, hormonal pigmentation, acne marks, or redness left behind after inflammation, understanding which type of hyperpigmentation you have is the key to fading it effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the four major types of pigmentation:
- Sun Spots (Solar Lentigines)
- Melasma
- PIH – Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
- PIE – Post-Inflammatory Erythema
We’ll also cover the best treatments, ingredients, and skincare routines for each type.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin — the pigment responsible for skin colour. While melanin protects the skin from UV radiation, too much of it can create dark patches or uneven tone.
Common triggers include:
- Sun exposure
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control)
- Acne and inflammation
- Skin injuries
- Aggressive skincare routines
- Heat exposure
Different triggers create different patterns — which is why identifying the right category matters so much.
Sun Spots (Solar Lentigines)
Sun spots are caused by long-term UV exposure. They appear as flat brown patches, usually on areas that get the most sunlight:
- Face
- Hands
- Chest
- Shoulders
They tend to darken with more sun exposure and are more common as we age.
Best Treatments for Sun Spots
- Vitamin C – Brightens and reduces oxidative stress
- Retinol – Boosts cell turnover
- AHAs – Exfoliate surface pigment
- Niacinamide – Helps block pigment transfer
- Sunscreen – Absolutely essential
Sun spots are usually the easiest type of pigmentation to treat with skincare.
Melasma
Melasma is a complex hormonal condition that causes widespread, symmetrical patches of pigmentation, often on the:
- Cheeks
- Forehead
- Upper lip
- Jawline
It’s triggered by hormones, heat, and UV exposure — which means even indoor heat or sunlight through windows can worsen it.
Best Treatments for Melasma
- Tranexamic Acid
- Vitamin C
- Niacinamide
- Retinol (gentle strength)
- Daily SPF 30+ (non-negotiable)
Heat avoidance is critical.
PIH – Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
PIH is the darkening of skin after inflammation — most commonly after acne. It appears as flat brown or tan marks where a blemish once was.
PIH is especially common in medium to deep skin tones and often lingers for months without treatment.
Best Treatments for PIH
- Vitamin C
- Azelaic Acid
- Retinol
- AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid)
PIH responds very well to consistent brightening routines.
PIE – Post-Inflammatory Erythema
PIE is the redness left behind after a pimple or irritation, caused by broken capillaries rather than melanin.
PIE appears as:
- Pink spots
- Red patches
- Light-purple marks in deeper skin tones
Best Treatments for PIE
- Niacinamide
- Azelaic Acid
- Soothing ingredients (centella, ceramides)
- Sun protection
PIE does not respond well to exfoliating acids — focus on calming the skin.
The Best Ingredients for All Types of Pigmentation
For most pigmentation concerns, dermatologists recommend:
- Vitamin C – Brightening and antioxidant protection
- Retinol – Improves texture and speeds up pigment fading
- Niacinamide – Reduces pigment transfer
- Tranexamic Acid – Especially for melasma
- Azelaic Acid – Great for PIH and PIE
- AHAs – Remove surface pigment
But none of these will work without sunscreen.
Best Pigmentation-Fading Products at Skin Boutique Online
- Vivier Radiance Serum – Brightens dark spots using vitamin C and peptides.
- PCA Skin Pigment Gel – A powerful AHA-based spot corrector.
- SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 – A pigment-correcting serum suitable for melasma.
- ZO Brightalive – Improves uneven tone without retinol.
Explore the full collection here:
Pigment Correction Collection
Hyperpigmentation FAQs
How long does it take to fade dark spots?
4–12 weeks depending on the type and severity.
Does sun make pigmentation worse?
Absolutely — especially melasma and sun spots.
Can exfoliating too much worsen pigmentation?
Yes. Barrier damage increases inflammation and discoloration.
Do you need SPF every day?
Yes — sunscreen is the most important step in treating hyperpigmentation.
Brighten and Correct With Expert-Approved Skincare
No matter which type of hyperpigmentation you’re dealing with, the right routine can make a dramatic difference. With consistent use of brightening serums, pigment inhibitors, and daily SPF, your skin can become clearer, brighter, and more even-toned.
Explore our curated Pigment Correction Collection at Skin Boutique Online to find the right products for your skin.