Understanding Hyperpigmentation & Melasma: Causes, Prevention & Treatment Options
July is Hyperpigmentation and Melasma Awareness Month—making it the perfect time to understand these common skin conditions, why they happen, and how you can safely and effectively treat them.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that appears as dark or reddish spots on the skin. It occurs when your skin produces excess melanin (your skin’s natural pigment) in response to triggers like:
- Acne breakouts
- Sun exposure
- Picking or scratching the skin
- Inflammation or skin trauma
These discolorations can show up on all skin types and are especially noticeable after time in the sun or following any kind of skin irritation.
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that runs deeper and is typically tied to hormonal changes. It often appears as symmetrical brown or grayish patches on the:
- Forehead
- Cheeks
- Upper lip
- Chin
Melasma is very common during pregnancy (also known as the “mask of pregnancy”) or can appear due to hormonal birth control, thyroid issues, or other endocrine changes.
It is extremely sensitive to:
- UV exposure
- Heat
- Skin irritation (especially from harsh products or exfoliation)
This sensitivity is why melasma and hyperpigmentation can worsen during the summer months when heat and sun exposure are at their peak.
Safe & Effective Treatment Options
The good news? Hyperpigmentation and melasma can be treated and managed with the right skincare—and you don’t need harsh or aggressive treatments to see results. At Glow With Ida, we carry a curated collection of professional-grade products designed to treat pigment concerns gently and effectively. Many are even pregnancy-safe.
Here are a few of our top product picks for fading hyperpigmentation and melasma:
🍋 Lemon Lightening Serum – by Sorella Apothecary
This gentle yet powerful botanical brightener is formulated specifically for melasma. It features:
- Licorice root (brightening & soothing)
- Vitamin C (to fade dark spots and boost collagen)
- A delicious natural citrus scent
This serum is safe to use day and night and is also pregnancy-safe—making it an ideal choice for expectant mamas battling dark spots.
✨ Resurfacing Elixir – by Sorella Apothecary
This nighttime serum contains a gentle retinol alternative that targets:
Pigment irregularities
Fine lines
Texture concerns
It works while you sleep to help reduce the appearance of dark spots over time. Not safe during pregnancy or nursing.
🌿 Facial in a Bottle – by Sorella Apothecary
This is a pregnancy-safe alternative to traditional retinol serums, featuring bakuchiol, a natural retinol substitute. It:
- Improves tone and texture
- Helps fade pigment and acne scarring
- Gently resurfaces the skin
Perfect for anyone needing pigment correction without risking irritation.
Your Custom Treatment Plan
Whether you’re struggling with acne marks, sun spots, or melasma from hormonal shifts, I’ll help create a custom skincare plan to suit your unique skin type and life phase. All consultations at Glow With Ida are personalized, and I only recommend what I trust on my own skin.
✨ Bonus: Ask me about in-studio treatments that pair with your product regimen for faster results!
Clearer Skin Starts With Care
Hyperpigmentation and melasma can be frustrating—but with the right education, tools, and products, you don’t have to live with uneven skin tone. Let’s create a plan together to restore your glow—safely and gently.
📍Book a consultation or stop by Glow With Ida in Cherry Creek to get started on your pigment-fading journey. Your skin (and confidence) will thank you.