A Guide to Hyperpigmentation — What It Is and How to Fade It Gently

Hey Kiya Collective,

Hyperpigmentation is a word you’ve likely seen floating around TikTok, IG skincare threads, and dermatologist reels — but what does it really mean? And more importantly, how do you treat it in a way that supports your skin without causing harm?

Let’s take the guesswork out of it. Here’s your glow-guided breakdown.

✨ What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation isn’t a skin condition in itself. It’s an umbrella term used to describe areas of the skin that appear darker than your natural tone due to excess melanin production.

It can show up as:

• Small dark spots or patches

• Large areas of discolouration

• Even full-body unevenness in rare cases

Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, is produced by cells called melanocytes. When these cells are overstimulated — whether by inflammation, hormones, or sun exposure — they produce more melanin in certain areas, leading to visible darkening.

💛 The 3 Types of Hyperpigmentation

Understanding the type of hyperpigmentation you’re experiencing is key to treating it effectively:

1. Melasma

   • Caused by hormonal shifts, often triggered by pregnancy, birth control, or stress.

   • Usually appears as symmetrical patches on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip.

2. Sunspots (aka solar lentigines)

   • Caused by prolonged sun exposure over time.

   • Usually show up as flat, brown spots on the face, shoulders, and hands.

3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

   • Caused by skin trauma — like acne, eczema, cuts, or picking.

   • More common in melanated skin, and can take months to fade without support.

🌿 How to Fade Hyperpigmentation (Gently + Effectively)

Hyperpigmentation is incredibly common — and nothing to feel ashamed about. But if you want to support your skin in fading dark marks and restoring an even tone, consistency and care are key.

Here’s where to start:

1. Wear SPF — Every Day. No Exceptions.

Sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers for hyperpigmentation and will always make it worse. Even if you’re indoors, UV rays can penetrate windows.

✨ Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily — even on cloudy days.

2. Hands Off Your Face

Picking pimples, scratching spots, or rubbing irritated areas increases trauma — which leads to more melanin activity.

✨ Let your skin heal undisturbed. Always wash hands before touching your face.

3. Use Ingredients That Target Discolouration

Certain ingredients are clinically proven to support more even skin tone:

✨ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps regulate melanin production, calms inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier. → Found in our Tea Tree & Niacinamide Toner

✨ African Black Soap: Naturally anti-inflammatory and rich in healing botanicals, it gently exfoliates and detoxifies — reducing discolouration over time. → Available in Bar Soap.

✨ Baobab Oil + Calendula: Antioxidant-rich ingredients (like those in our Rejuvenating Facial Serum) support skin repair and tone balance

💫 The Kiya Ritual for Hyperpigmentation

To treat dark marks gently and naturally, we recommend this targeted ritual:

1. Cleanse: African Black Soap 

2. Hydrate: Tea Tree & Niacinamide Toner (AM + PM)

3. Treat: Rejuvenating Facial Serum (focus on areas with PIH)

4. Moisturise: Whipped Shea Butter to protect and seal in active ingredients

5. SPF: Your daily non-negotiable

💛 Final Thoughts

Hyperpigmentation is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. The key is patience, protection, and products that nourish your skin rather than overwhelm it.

At Kiya, we believe in rituals that honour your skin’s story — every mark, every glow-up, every moment in between.