Pigmentation & Melasma Guide

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Pigmentation and melasma are influenced by a mix of UV exposure, inflammation, hormonal factors, and repeated irritation that can disrupt normal melanin activity and lead to uneven tone or persistent dark patches. Korean skincare typically focuses on gentle, consistent routines that support barrier stability, improve overall clarity, and avoid over-exfoliation that can worsen sensitivity.

This guide explains what drives pigmentation, which ingredients are commonly used, and how to build a Korean routine using products for pigmentation and melasma.

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What Is Pigmentation & Melasma?

Pigmentation refers to uneven skin tone or dark spots caused by excess melanin. Melasma is a form of pigmentation that often appears as patchy discoloration (commonly on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip) and tends to be persistent and relapse-prone, especially with ongoing UV exposure or irritation.

  • UV exposure: sunlight can stimulate melanin production and deepen existing discoloration.
  • Inflammation: irritation and skin stress can increase the likelihood of uneven tone and dark marks.
  • Hormonal factors: changes in hormones can be associated with melasma patterns and recurrence.
  • Residual marks: discoloration can remain after irritation or breakouts, contributing to uneven tone.
  • Barrier disruption: harsh cleansing or frequent exfoliation can increase sensitivity and worsen tone instability.

Key Korean Ingredients for Pigmentation & Melasma

  • Niacinamide – commonly used to support barrier function and improve the look of uneven tone as part of a daily routine.
  • Tranexamic Acid – used in pigmentation-focused routines, especially when discoloration is linked with sensitivity or inflammation.
  • Kojic Acid – used in brightening care to support a more even-looking skin tone.
  • Vitamin C – antioxidant ingredient used to support overall clarity and tone consistency.
  • Alpha Arbutin – commonly used to support tone uniformity in discoloration-focused routines.
  • AHA – exfoliating acids used to help remove dull surface cells and refine the look of uneven texture when used carefully.

Korean Skincare Routine for Pigmentation & Melasma

1. Cleanser (Morning & Night)

Melasma-focused cleansers remove impurities and sunscreen while supporting pigment-control routines through low-level brightening or exfoliation-support actives, without provoking irritation that can exacerbate discoloration.

2. Toner (Morning & Night)

Toners support more even-looking tone by refining the skin surface and conditioning it for pigment-targeting treatments. Some formulas include low-level brightening or turnover-support actives, while maintaining tolerance, as inflammation can worsen pigmentation.

3. Serum / Ampoule (Morning & Night)

This step concentrates pigment-targeting actives used consistently to influence discoloration pathways over time. Daily sun protection is essential to prevent relapse and protect treatment progress.

4. Mask (Night Only, 2–3 Times Per Week)

Masks provide intensive brightening and calming care to support tone correction and recovery from daily environmental stress. Use after cleansing and toner to enhance ingredient delivery.

5. Moisturizer (Morning & Night)

Moisturizers help stabilize skin reactivity and reduce inflammation that can trigger pigment recurrence. Maintaining tolerance allows pigment-targeting treatments to be used consistently without sensitivity-driven darkening.

6. Sunscreen (Morning Only)

Sunscreen is essential for preventing pigment reactivation and maintaining treatment outcomes. Consistent daily use is critical for long-term melasma management.

Smart Ways to Personalize Your Pigmentation Routine

  • Prioritize sunscreen daily if you want long-term tone stability and better maintenance of results from treatment steps.
  • Pair daily-use ingredients like niacinamide with targeted options such as tranexamic acid if uneven tone is persistent or relapse-prone.
  • Use AHA cautiously (for example, a few times per week) if your skin is sensitive or easily irritated by exfoliation.
  • Support the barrier with moisturizer consistency if your skin becomes dry, tight, or reactive during tone-focused routines.
  • Keep routines steady and low-irritation; frequent product switching and over-exfoliation can make discoloration harder to manage.

Shop by Concern: Pigmentation & Melasma

Browse all pigmentation-focused Korean skincare in one place: Shop Pigmentation & Melasma Collection →

This concern-based collection connects the key pigmentation ingredients, cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens referenced throughout this guide, so you can build a complete routine for uneven tone and melasma-prone skin with a consistent structure.