{"title":"Facial Hyperpigmentation","entity_type":"Concern","slug":"facial-hyperpigmentation","canonical_url":"https://skinknowledgebase.com/concerns/facial-hyperpigmentation","dates":{"date_modified":"2026-05-17","date_reviewed":"2026-05-17"},"mcp_eligible":true,"evidence_sources":[{"title":"AAD — How to fade dark spots in darker skin tones","canonical_citation_url":"https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/aad-fade-dark-spots-darker-skin-tones","original_source_url":"https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/fade-dark-spots","source_type":"other"},{"title":"DermNet — Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation","canonical_citation_url":"https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/dermnet-postinflammatory-hyperpigmentation","original_source_url":"https://dermnetnz.org/topics/postinflammatory-hyperpigmentation","source_type":"medical_reference"},{"title":"DermNet — 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It can show as broad cheek or forehead patches, post-breakout discoloration, sun-related brown spots, or pigment patterns that resemble melasma. This Concern is about the visible cosmetic pattern, not a diagnosis. The safest routine starts with daily sun protection, then adds gradual tone-supporting ingredients while avoiding irritation. Because the same visible pattern can have different triggers, the goal is steady appearance improvement and a clear boundary for clinician review when the pattern seems unusual."]},{"heading":"Causes","paragraphs":["Visible facial hyperpigmentation can follow inflammation from acne, eczema, scratching, or overactive routines; it can also build with cumulative sun exposure or appear in hormone-linked patterns. Deeper skin tones may notice longer-lasting marks after irritation because pigment response can be more visible. UV exposure can darken existing patches and make fading slower, which is why sunscreen is foundational even when the main product in the routine is a brightening serum. Some patterns, including suspected melasma, medication-linked photosensitivity, or sudden changes, need clinician evaluation rather than cosmetic guessing."]}],"ranked_product":{"title":"TRUE Serums EGF Serum","url":"https://skinknowledgebase.com/products/true-serums-egf-serum"}}