Key Takeaways

• Dark spots, also called hyperpigmentation, happen when skin makes excess melanin. The most common triggers are sun exposure, hormones, inflammation, and genetics.
• Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Consistent SPF is the single best way to prevent and slow pigmentation, then layer proven actives like vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid. Consider exploring Sun Protection and Vitamin C products for easy routine building. 
  
• Different types need different strategies. Melasma benefits from pigment-suppressing serums and strict UV protection, while sun spots respond well to targeted antioxidants and professional exfoliation.

Dark spots are one of the most common concerns we see in clinic. Whether yours appeared after a breakout, pregnancy, or a long summer outdoors, hyperpigmentation can make skin look uneven and dull. The good news is that with a precise routine, patience, and daily sun protection, most dark spots can be meaningfully improved.

At Shape Clinic, our approach is patient-first and evidence-led. We pair medical-grade skincare with in-clinic care when needed, and we stock only formulations we trust. This guide explains what causes dark spots, how to choose the right at-home routine, and when to consider professional treatments. Throughout, you will find clear opportunities to explore our Pigmentation & Dullness, Vitamin C Products, Sun Damage, Moisturisers, Cleansers, and Sun Protection collections so you can build a results-driven regimen that suits your skin. 

What Are Dark Spots?

Dark spots are areas of excess melanin that appear darker than the surrounding skin. They can show up as small freckles, larger sun spots, or patchy, map-like areas such as melasma. While anyone can develop hyperpigmentation, it tends to be more persistent for medium to deep skin tones, and it can recur without consistent prevention.

The main types you may notice:

• Melasma: Often triggered by hormones and UV exposure, commonly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Left behind after acne, eczema, bug bites, or procedures if skin is not fully protected.
• Sun spots or solar lentigines: Caused by cumulative UV exposure over time.
• Freckles: Usually genetic, and they darken with sun.

Causes Of Dark Spots On Skin

Understanding your triggers helps you choose the right products and habits.

• Sun exposure: UV light is the number one driver of pigmentation, which is why SPF every day is essential. Browse our Sun Protection edit to find a texture you will enjoy wearing daily. 
  
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormonal fluctuations can spark melasma.
• Inflammation: Breakouts, rashes, or over-exfoliation can leave lingering marks known as PIH.
• Medications: Certain drugs can increase pigment production.
• Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to freckles and sun-induced pigmentation.

How To Use Your Routine To Fade Dark Spots

A smart routine combines brightening actives with barrier-supporting care and unwavering UV protection. Build with these steps.

1) Cleanse gently

Use a non-stripping cleanser morning and night to remove impurities without aggravating skin. If your skin is easily sensitised, consider Universkin Universal Cleansing Olive Oil for a balanced, minimal approach, or the SkinCeuticals Simply Clean Gel Cleanser from our Cleansers collection. 

2) Antioxidant serum in the morning

Vitamin C helps defend against UV-induced free radical damage and supports a brighter, more even tone over time. Explore our Vitamin C products collection to compare textures and strengths that fit your skin type. 

3) Targeted pigment corrector

Layer a dedicated serum that suppresses pigment at multiple steps in the melanin pathway. Options with tranexamic acid, niacinamide, kojic acid, and arbutin are excellent for most forms of hyperpigmentation. For example, SkinCeuticals Dark Spot Corrector combines tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, and HEPES to visibly improve uneven tone. 

4) Night-time renewal

Retinoids and gentle chemical exfoliants support cell turnover, which helps gradually disperse surface pigment. Start two to three nights a week and increase as tolerated. You will find retinol options and overnight exfoliating care within our Serums collection.

5) Moisturise wisely

Choose a barrier-supporting moisturiser that keeps skin calm and hydrated. A strong barrier reduces inflammation that can worsen PIH. See our Moisturisers collection for options that pair well with active serums. 

6) SPF every single morning

UV exposure will undo progress. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 generously, and reapply when outdoors. Our Sun Protection and Airyday collections feature elegant daily formulas that make compliance easy. 

Common Questions

What causes dark spots on skin?

Dark spots occur when melanocytes make excess melanin due to triggers like sunlight, hormones, inflammation, or certain medications. Anyone can be affected, although patterns and persistence vary by skin tone. Keeping inflammation low and UV exposure controlled is crucial.

How can we remove dark spots on the face?

Consistency is everything. Combine daily SPF with a brightening antioxidant in the morning and a dedicated pigment-correcting serum. Retinoids and gentle chemical exfoliation at night help speed cell turnover. If pigment is stubborn, book a consultation to discuss professional options like chemical peels or energy-based treatments performed by qualified practitioners for your skin type.

Are melasma and sun spots the same?

No. Melasma is usually hormonally driven and appears as symmetrical patches that easily rebound with sunlight. Sun spots are discrete, UV-induced marks that build with cumulative exposure. Both improve with pigment-suppressing skincare and diligent SPF, but melasma typically requires stricter UV avoidance and longer maintenance.

Who should use pigment-correcting serums?

Most skin types with uneven tone, PIH, sun spots, or melasma will benefit from daily use of a corrective serum, provided the formula suits their skin and is paired with SPF. Sensitive or compromised skin should start slowly, combine with a soothing moisturiser, and avoid over-exfoliation.

Who Should Use These Treatments?

• Melasma-prone or hormonally sensitive skin: Focus on pigment suppressors such as tranexamic acid and niacinamide, strict sun avoidance, and tinted SPF for visible light protection.
• Post-acne marks and PIH: Pair a gentle routine with antioxidants, niacinamide, and retinoids. Avoid picking and harsh scrubs.
• Sun-induced spots and general dullness: Vitamin C plus broad-spectrum SPF daily, with periodic exfoliation.

Expert Tips For Best Results

• Apply brightening serums to clean, dry skin and allow them to absorb for a minute before moisturiser.
• Use vitamin C in the morning, then a corrective serum morning or evening as directed.
• Introduce retinoids gradually to avoid irritation. If you are sensitive, start every third night and buffer with moisturiser.
• Reapply SPF, especially after sweating or swimming. Consider makeup or moisturisers with added sun filters for top-ups. Our Airyday options sit beautifully under or over makeup. 
  

Keep expectations realistic. Pigment fades in weeks to months, and melasma often requires long-term maintenance.

Recommended Products

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Dark Spot Corrector

This daily, layerable serum targets multiple steps of the pigment pathway to visibly reduce the look of dark spots and uneven tone in as little as two weeks. It features 3 percent tranexamic acid to help minimise persistent brown patches, 1 percent kojic acid for targeted brightening, 5 percent niacinamide to support barrier health and calm redness, and 5 percent HEPES to assist gentle exfoliation. Use morning or evening after cleansing and before moisturiser, always with SPF by day. Ideal for melasma-prone and post-blemish marks, and suitable for all skin tones.

SkinBetter Science Even Tone Correcting Serum

A hydroquinone-free corrector designed to brighten and even skin without retinol, making it a solid option for sensitive users or those cycling retinoids on alternate nights. The formula incorporates SkinBetter’s patented b.r.y.t. technology to address visible brown, red, and yellow tones that commonly accompany hyperpigmentation. Apply a thin layer to face, neck, and chest morning and night, then follow with moisturiser and SPF during the day. Pairs well with vitamin C in the morning and retinoids at night for a comprehensive routine.

Airyday SPF 50+ Bronze Glow Dreamscreen

The easiest way to protect progress is a sunscreen you love to wear. Airyday’s lightweight, glow-enhancing Dreamscreen textures make daily SPF feel like skincare. Choose Golden Glow for a soft-focus radiance or Bronze Glow for a sun-kissed tint that evens tone while you protect. Wear alone on no-makeup days or under foundation. Suitable for all skin types that prefer a comfortable, invisible finish.

Professional Treatments To Consider

For stubborn pigmentation, combining your home routine with clinic treatments can accelerate results. Options may include chemical peels, gentle resurfacing, or energy-based devices selected for your skin type and concerns. Proper assessment and practitioner experience are essential, especially for deeper skin tones and melasma, to limit the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Continue your at-home routine and daily SPF to maintain clarity between sessions.

Shape Clinic's Medical-Grade Skincare Can Help

Dark spots are common and treatable with the right plan. Start with consistent daily SPF, add proven brightening actives, and support your barrier so skin stays calm while you treat. For personalised guidance and product curation, Shape Clinic’s medical-grade range is carefully chosen by experts to deliver visible results.