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Korean Skincare for Hyperpigmentation
Hello!
Today, I want to talk to you about something that many of us struggle with.
Can you guess it?
Okay, I’m telling you.
It’s hyperpigmentation.
Yeah, I know, it is that stubborn guest who doesn’t want to leave the party.
You know, those annoying dark spots and uneven patches on your skin that make you feel less confident and beautiful.
But don’t worry, fortunately, there are many Korean skincare products and routines that can help you fade away hyperpigmentation and achieve a clear, glowing complexion.
Wondering how to get rid of hyperpigmentation?
In this blog post, I’ll share with you some of the best Korean skincare steps for hyperpigmentation, as well as some tips and tricks and must-have product recommendations to get the most out of them.
Before diving into the blog post,
You should know:
- What is hyperpigmentation
- How does it happen,
- And what ingredients are to treat it?
Let’s get started!
If you’re a teenager looking to kickstart a simple and easy Korean-inspired skincare routine without dealing with complicated steps, take a look at this simplified guide.
Korean Skincare for Hyperpigmentation
What is Hyperpigmentation?
In simple terms, it is called dark spots.
It happens when your skin produces too much of a pigment called melanin, which gives your skin its color.
Various forms of hyperpigmentation exist, including age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
They have different causes and symptoms, but they all share one thing in common: they are influenced by sun exposure.
Yes, It’s the sun my dear, one of the main culprits that can trigger or worsen your hyperpigmentation by stimulating melanin production.
Remember, there are two most common factors – sun exposure and inflammation that can increase melanin production and make your skin dark.
Next?
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Here is a list of some causes that are responsible for hyperpigmentation:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Injury
- Pimples
- Psoriasis
- Rosacea
- Scratches
- Shaving
To get rid of hyperpigmentation, it is important to use skincare products with active ingredients that fade dark spots.
Korean Skincare involves:
- Thoroughly cleanse your skin
- Moisturize regularly
- Opt for quality products with anti-inflammatory agents
- Choose products featuring brightening ingredients
- Always use products with sunscreen
For the best results, You should follow a complete Korean skincare routine using quality products.
Before we explore the best Korean skincare for hyperpigmentation, let’s talk about the essential active ingredients, (the true heroes,) that Korean skincare incorporates to effectively lighten hyperpigmentation.
And those should be present in your products too.
What Ingredients Are Most Effective for Addressing Hyperpigmentation?
Azelaic Acid: Azelaic Acid is a versatile solution that tackles acne and dark spots It is a mild exfoliation suitable for sensitive skin.
Over-the-counter options usually have a 10% concentration, effective for the job. For higher percentages, a prescription is necessary.
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): These are chemical exfoliants that can help remove the dead skin cells that contain excess melanin, and improve skin texture and tone.
They can also help with hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
Some examples of AHAs are glycolic, lactic, and citric acid.
Glycolic Acid: Glycolic Acid, a renowned member of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) family, acts as an exfoliant by dissolving the bonds between skin cells.
It aids in shedding damaged, darker cells, making room for newer, lighter ones.
Kojic Acid: Kojic Acid, derived from fungi during fermentation, targets melasma, sun spots, and post-pimple dark spots by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, not only prevents wrinkles and enhances sun protection but also brightens skin tone and diminishes dark spots. Opt for L-Ascorbic Acid, the most effective form of Vitamin C for these purposes.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): This ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to reduce the transfer of pigment within the skin. It can be effective in treating various forms of hyperpigmentation.
Licorice Extract: Contains glabridin, which helps to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Now let’s back to the original post: Korean skincare for hyperpigmentation.
Wondering What is a good skincare routine for hyperpigmentation?
Let’s go through the step-by-step process of achieving healthy skin and learn how Koreans achieve an even skin tone:
Feeling excited?
Me too.
7 Steps in Korean Skincare Routine for Hyperpigmentation:
Step 1: Double Cleansing
In a Korean skincare routine, the first thing to do is double cleansing.
Koreans swear by double cleansing.
This means using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to remove all traces of makeup, dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin.
Double cleansing is essential for preventing clogged pores, breakouts, and dullness, which can all worsen hyperpigmentation.
The process involves two steps:
- Oil-based cleanser: Used to remove makeup and sunscreen.
- Water-based cleanser: Basically does its job by removing sweat and dirt, which are water-based impurities.
Some of the best oil-based cleansers for hyperpigmentation are those that contain brightening ingredients like vitamin C, licorice root extract, or niacinamide.
These ingredients can help inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment that causes dark spots.
For example, you can try the Klairs Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil, which contains vitamin C and licorice root extract,
Or the Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm, which contains vitamin C and papaya extract.
For the water-based cleanser, prioritize a product that meets the following criteria:
- It is gentle,
- low-pH
- It won’t strip your skin of its natural moisture or disrupt its barrier.
Because a damaged skin barrier can make your skin more prone to inflammation and hyperpigmentation.
Some of the best water-based cleansers for hyperpigmentation are those that contain exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid.
These ingredients can help remove:
- Dead skin cells,
- Unclog pores,
- And improve skin texture and tone.
You can try the Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, which contains salicylic acid and tea tree oil,
Or the Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Foam, which contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, and niacinamide.
Or If you want more options, you can check out these posts-
- 10 Best Korean Water-Based Cleansers
- 7 Best Korean Foam Cleansers For Acne-Prone Skin That Won’t Dry Out Your Skin!
- 10 Best Korean Cleansing Balms For All Skin Types
- 7 Best Korean Cleansers For Acne Prone Skin
- Best Korean cleansers for oily skin under $20
In case, You don’t know how to do a double cleanse;
Here is a simple process of double cleansing:
- First, massage the oil-based cleanser onto your dry face for about a minute.
- Then rinse off with lukewarm water.
- Next, apply the water-based cleanser to your wet face and gently massage for another minute,
- FINALLY, rinse off with very very COLD water, I’m kidding; use normal or lukewarm water.
Step-2 : Exfoliation
For those with hyperpigmented skin, it’s recommended to prioritize exfoliators that efficiently remove dead skin cells.
Exfoliating is an important step for hyperpigmentation and dark spots, as it can help remove the dead skin cells that contain excess melanin, the pigment that causes discoloration.
Exfoliation comes in two forms: physical and chemical.
Physical exfoliation uses abrasive materials like scrubs, brushes, or peels to manually slough off the dead skin cells.
Chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between the dead skin cells and reveal the fresh skin underneath.
Both types of exfoliation can be beneficial for hyperpigmentation but I would suggest the use of chemical exfoliation.
I would recommend exfoliating once or twice a week and to use gentle products that suit your skin condition.
You should also avoid over-exfoliating, as this can damage your skin barrier and worsen your dark spots.
Some of the best Korean skincare products for exfoliating hyperpigmentation and dark spots are those that contain brightening and exfoliating ingredients.
They Are:
AHAs (like glycolic acid and lactic acid) are effective for surface-level exfoliation = Best for dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
BHAs (such as salicylic acid) penetrate deeper into the pores, making them suitable for oily or acne-prone skin.= Best for oily, acne-prone, or sun-damaged skin
You can try the Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon, which contains vitamin C and lemon extract.
Or, you can try AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad: This is a gentle exfoliating pad that contains AHA, BHA, and PHA, which are acids that help dissolve dead skin cells and clear pores.
Step 3: Toner
The third step in any Korean skincare routine is toner. Toner is a liquid product that helps balance your skin’s pH level, hydrate your skin, and prepare it for the next steps.
Toner is especially important for hyperpigmentation, as it can help restore your skin’s moisture level and enhance the absorption and effectiveness of the products that follow.
Some of the best toners for hyperpigmentation are those that contain hydrating and brightening ingredients like hyaluronic acid, green tea, or rice extract.
These ingredients can help plump up your skin, reduce inflammation, and lighten dark spots.
For example, you can try the [Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner], which contains hyaluronic acid and aloe vera,
Or the [I’m From Rice Toner], which contains rice extract and niacinamide.
Step 4: Essence
The fourth step in any Korean skincare routine is essence. Essence is a lightweight, watery product that helps boost your skin’s hydration, elasticity, and cell turnover.
Essence is also important for hyperpigmentation, as it can help repair your skin’s barrier, stimulate collagen production, and fade dark spots.
Some of the best essences for hyperpigmentation are those that contain fermented and antioxidant ingredients like galactomyces, snail mucin, or ginseng.
These ingredients can help nourish your skin, fight free radical damage, and improve skin tone and texture.
Products you can try: [Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence], which contains galactomyces and niacinamide,
Or the [Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence], which contains snail mucin and bee venom.
Step 5: Serum
The fifth step in any Korean skincare routine is serum. Serum is a concentrated product that targets specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, or acne.
Serum is the most important step for hyperpigmentation, as it can deliver powerful ingredients that can directly address the root causes of dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Some of the best serums for hyperpigmentation are those that contain brightening and exfoliating ingredients like vitamin C, arbutin, or azelaic acid.
These ingredients can help inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin synthesis, and accelerate skin cell renewal.
Best Korean Serum For hyperpigmentation: [Purito Pure Vitamin C Serum], which contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
Or the [By Wishtrend Pure Vitamin C 21.5% Advanced Serum], which contains vitamin C and sea buckthorn water.
Warning: it’s essential to select products with mild ingredients to prevent irritation during use.
Otherwise, you end up increasing the risk of irritation and worsening hyperpigmentation.
To avoid skin irritation using potent products, you need to follow some guidelines:
Patch Test:
Before applying a new product to your entire face, perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product on a discreet area of your skin, such as behind the ear or on the inner arm. Observe for any negative responses for a period of 24 to 48 hours.
Start slowly:
Start by introducing one new potent product at a time into your skincare routine. This helps your skin adjust to the active ingredients and reduces the risk of irritation.
Follow Instructions:
Always follow the guidelines given by the manufacturer of the product. Use the recommended amount and frequency. Overuse of potent products can lead to irritation
Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize :
Make sure to include a moisturizer that hydrates and soothes your skin.. This helps maintain your skin’s barrier function and reduces the likelihood of irritation.
Avoid Mixing Active Ingredients:
Some potent ingredients may not interact well when used together. Be cautious about combining products with ingredients like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).
And Obviously,
Use Sunscreen:
Many potent skincare products can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Put on a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every morning, even when it’s cloudy outside.
Step 6: Moisturizer
Although I have oily skin, I am obsessed with moisturizers. It just protects my skin from the harsh ingredients I used in previous steps.
There’s this study that says slathering on some moisturizer has legitimate therapeutic vibes, especially when you’re battling skin dryness.
Moisturizer is a product that helps seal in all the previous steps, prevent moisture loss, and protect your skin from external aggressors.
Moisturizer is also essential for hyperpigmentation, as it can help keep your skin healthy, smooth, and supple.
Here the best moisturizers for hyperpigmentation are those that contain moisturizing and soothing ingredients like ceramides, centella asiatica, or panthenol.
These ingredients can help strengthen your skin’s barrier, calm inflammation, and promote healing.
For example, you can try the Cosrx Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream, which contains ceramides and centella asiatica, or the [Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream], which contains Centella Asiatica and Panthenol.
Related: 5 Best Korean Niacinamide Moisturizers
Step 7: Sunscreen
The seventh and final step in any Korean skincare routine is sunscreen.
Sunscreen is the most crucial step for hyperpigmentation, as it can help prevent the formation of new dark spots and the worsening of existing ones.
Some of the best sunscreens for hyperpigmentation are those that offer broad-spectrum protection, meaning they block both UVA and UVB rays, and have a high SPF, meaning they can filter out a high percentage of UV rays.
You should also look for sunscreens that have a lightweight, non-greasy, and non-white cast formula, as well as some added benefits like hydration or brightening.
Product Reccomondation:
Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF50+ PA++++], which contains Centella Asiatica and niacinamide,
Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF50+ PA++++, contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.
To apply sunscreen, you should use at least a quarter-sized amount of product and apply it evenly onto your face, neck, and any other exposed areas.
Keep in mind:
You should apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or more frequently if you sweat or swim.
Final Thoughts On Korean Skincare for Hyperpigmentation
First off, thumbs up to the Korean skincare routine for hyperpigmentation. They’re all about that gentle approach. Cleanse, tone, treat and moisturize.
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or skin type.
However, with the right Korean skincare products and routine, you can effectively treat hyperpigmentation and achieve a clear, radiant, and flawless complexion.
I hope this blog post was helpful and informative for you, and that you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Thank you for your interest and attention, and have a wonderful day!
