How to Treat, Control, Prevent Pigmentation Without the Overwhelm

As a licensed esthetician, I get this question all the time: "What do I do about sun spots?” If you’ve noticed stubborn dark or red spots from sun, hormonal changes or past breakouts, you’re not alone. The good news is you don’t have to just live with it. Let’s chat about what actually works to treat, control, and keep uneven pigmentation from coming back.

What is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation refers to the coloring of your skin, which is determined by melanin production. When this process becomes uneven, it can lead to discoloration in the form of dark spots, redness, or patches. There are different types of pigmentation concerns, each with its own causes and treatments. Post Inflammatory Erythema (PIE) appears as persistent redness after inflammation, often seen in lighter skin tones. Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)presents as dark marks left behind from acne, injuries, or inflammation, more common in deeper skin tones. Melasma, often triggered by hormonal changes, appears as larger, patchy discoloration, commonly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Understanding what type of pigmentation you're dealing with is how we choose the right treatment.

Treat: Fading Pigmentation

SkinBetter Science - Even Tone Correcting Serum

If pigmentation has already made an appearance, the right skincare can help fade it. I personally use and love SkinBetter Science, DMK, and Hydrinity because they’re effective and backed by science. Brightening serums and antioxidants like vitamin C, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide help lighten discoloration and keep skin protected. Gentle chemical exfoliants such as lactic acid, mandelic acid, and retinoids break up stubborn pigment and reveal fresher skin. For deeper concerns, professional treatments like DMK enzyme therapy, chemical peels, and microneedling can break up pigmentation and take results to the next level.

Pro Tip: Winter is the best time to treat pigmentation! Cooler months mean less sun exposure, making it the perfect season for peels, microneedling, and other advanced treatments that target hyperpigmentation effectively.

Control: Keeping Pigmentation in Check

Even when you start seeing results, pigmentation can creep back if you’re not careful. Keeping your skin in balance is key. Hydration and barrier support are essential. Using products with hyaluronic acid and peptides ( Hydrinity) prevents irritation and post-inflammatory pigmentation. To maintain even skin tone, tyrosinase inhibitors like kojic acid, arbutin, and licorice root help regulate melanin production. AlphaRet from SkinBetter Science is a fantastic retinol that promotes skin renewal and helps prevent future pigmentation. Regular treatments, including monthly facials, peels, and enzyme therapy, ensure long term skin health and consistency in results.

SkinBetter Science Alto Advanced + AlphaRet

Prevent: Stopping Pigmentation Before It Starts

Want to avoid dealing with pigmentation in the first place? Sunscreen is your best friend. Applying a broad spectrum SPF 30+ every single day (preferably mineral-based) is your first line of defense. Sunscreen also needs to be reapplied every two hours when you’re outside powder and mist formulas make this easy. Smart sun protection goes beyond SPF.  Wearing hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade whenever possible makes a big difference. A holistic approach also helps eating an anti-inflammatory diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress all contribute to keeping your skin clear, even-toned, and healthy.

Most Important, Sunscreen!!

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to be stuck with pigmentation forever! The right mix of studio treatments, home skincare, and daily sun protection will help you get brighter, more even skin. If you need a customized plan, I’ve got you! Let’s chat about what works best for your skin.

Got more skin concerns? Let’s work on them together. Book a consultation today!