Pigmentation & Melasma Guide

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Pigmentation and melasma are influenced by UV exposure, inflammation, hormonal factors, and repeated irritation that disrupt normal melanin regulation, leading to uneven tone or persistent dark patches. Korean skincare emphasizes gentle, consistent routines that support skin stability while gradually improving clarity.

Overuse of strong treatments on unstable skin often worsens discoloration instead of improving it. Learn why in our Intervention vs Stability guide.

Barrier health and inflammation control play a major role in preventing relapse: Skin Barrier Structure & Repair.

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What Is Pigmentation & Melasma?

Pigmentation refers to uneven skin tone or dark spots caused by excess melanin production. Melasma is a chronic form of pigmentation that appears as patchy discoloration (often on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip) and tends to recur with UV exposure or irritation.

  • UV exposure: sunlight stimulates melanin production and deepens existing dark spots.
  • Inflammation: irritation increases melanin signaling and uneven tone risk.
  • Hormonal factors: hormonal shifts are linked to melasma recurrence patterns.
  • Residual marks: dark spots may remain after acne or irritation.
  • Barrier disruption: harsh cleansing and over-exfoliation worsen sensitivity and pigmentation (why barrier matters).

Key Korean Ingredients for Pigmentation & Melasma

  • Niacinamide – supports barrier strength and helps improve the look of uneven tone.
  • Tranexamic Acid – commonly used in pigmentation routines linked to inflammation control.
  • Kojic Acid – used in brightening care for tone uniformity.
  • Vitamin C – antioxidant ingredient supporting overall skin clarity.
  • Alpha Arbutin – helps support even-looking complexion.
  • AHA – exfoliating acids used cautiously to refine uneven texture and dullness.

Korean Skincare Routine for Pigmentation & Melasma

Effective pigmentation routines follow a clear structure: identify your primary concern, apply targeted brightening interventions, and maintain skin stability to prevent irritation-related relapse. (See: Goal → Method → Optimization)

1. Cleanser

Use gentle cleansers to remove sunscreen and impurities without disrupting skin balance. Harsh or high-pH cleansing can increase irritation and worsen discoloration (pH explained).

2. Toner

Toners refine the skin surface and condition it for treatment steps. Many formulas support gentle turnover while maintaining tolerance, as inflammation can trigger pigment recurrence.

3. Serum / Ampoule

Concentrated pigment-targeting serums and ampoules deliver active ingredients that help regulate melanin activity and improve uneven tone over time when used consistently.

4. Mask

Masks provide intensive calming and brightening support to aid recovery from environmental stress.

5. Moisturizer

Moisturizers provide hydration and barrier support while often containing moderate brightening ingredients that continue tone correction gently throughout the day and night. This step helps lock in moisture, improve radiance, and support even-looking skin.

6. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the most important step in pigmentation management. Daily use prevents melanin reactivation and long-term relapse.

Smart Ways to Personalize Your Pigmentation Routine

  • Prioritize daily sunscreen to maintain results and prevent new dark spots.
  • Pair gentle daily ingredients like niacinamide with targeted actives such as tranexamic acid.
  • Use exfoliating acids cautiously to avoid inflammation-driven discoloration.
  • Support barrier health with consistent moisturization if sensitivity appears.
  • Keep routines stable; frequent switching and over-treatment can worsen melasma.

Shop by Concern: Pigmentation & Melasma

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

This collection connects 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 confidence.