- Natasha and Nadia, Founders Yearn Skin

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding area. This occurs when there’s an overproduction of melanin—the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color—or when iron and other heavy metals build up in the skin.

It can be triggered by many factors, including hormonal changes (like pregnancy or birth control), medical conditions (such as hormonal imbalances or metabolic disorders), certain medications, genetics, sun exposure, or skin trauma from acne, cuts, or burns.

Because hyperpigmentation has different causes and types, it’s important to understand your skin tone, skin type, and the specific kind of pigmentation you’re dealing with. This helps in choosing the most effective treatment plan, and which Yearn Skin products to use.

Effective treatment doesn’t just mean fading dark marks—it means addressing the root cause, preventing new spots from forming, and protecting your results over time. It requires a consistent routine, targeted ingredients, and strong sun protection. The goal is long-term clarity and even-toned skin, not just short-term fixes.

Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

Sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers and aggravators of hyperpigmentation. Protecting your skin daily is the foundation of any successful treatment plan.

• Seek shade where possible
• Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA + UVB protection) every morning—and reapply throughout the day

Tailored Treatments for Different Types

Melasma

• Often hormone-related and requires prescription treatment to start
• Maintenance includes pigment-correcting actives (like niacinamide and azelaic acid)
• Dermatological treatments like peels or laser therapy can support results

Sun Spots

• Respond well to actives like vitamin C, kojic acid, and exfoliating acids
• In-office treatments like microneedling, peels, or light-based therapies are effective

 Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

• Common after acne or injury
• Improves with ingredients that assists with inflammation and brighten skin
• Avoiding irritation and using gentle exfoliation can prevent new marks

Effective treatment is never one-size-fits-all. It’s about knowing your skin, choosing the right actives, and committing to sun protection every single day.

Yearn Skin products are specifically formulated to address post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), making them especially effective for fading dark marks caused by acne, irritation, or skin trauma.

While the range can also assist with other forms of hyperpigmentation—such as sun spots and mild hormonal pigmentation—its greatest strength lies in targeting PIH. The formulations feature highly active ingredients like niacinamide, alpha arbutin, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and retinyl palmitate. These ingredients are known for their ability to regulate melanin production, assist with inflammation, and encourage skin renewal. Designed to penetrate beneath the surface, the actives work at the source of pigmentation for more noticeable and lasting results.

Patience is key! There is no overnight fix for hyperpigmentation, despite what social media may suggest.

• Short-Term (4–6 weeks): You may notice slight fading of dark spots with consistent treatment.
• Medium-Term (3–6 months): More visible improvement in overall skin tone and discolouration.
• Long-Term (6 months–1+ year): Significant fading (but some types, like melasma may require ongoing maintenance).

NB! Hyperpigmentation is complex and varies from person to person. Some people see great results with just skincare, while others need prescription treatments or in-office procedures. For some, it may take years to improve, and in some cases, it may never completely go away. Factors like genetics, age, lifestyle, sun exposure, and medical conditions all play a role.

The good news? With the right approach, you can reduce hyperpigmentation and prevent it from worsening. A consistent, well rounded skincare routine—combined with proper sun protection—goes a long way in managing it.

If you’re struggling with stubborn dark marks, you’re not alone! Seeing a Dermatologist or an Aesthetic Medicine Doctor can help you find the right treatment for your skin type and concerns.

See comprehensive list below of our range ↓