# Pigmentation: Common Causes and Skincare Support Pigmentation describes colour produced by melanin. Uneven pigmentation can follow sun exposure, inflammation, acne, hormones or other skin conditions. ## In simple terms Pigmentation means colour produced by melanin. In beauty conversations it usually refers to areas that look darker than the surrounding skin, such as post-acne marks, melasma or sun spots. These are not one condition: their triggers, depth and treatment differ, especially in deeper skin tones where irritation itself can leave a mark. ## What it can and cannot do A gentle brightening routine can improve some excess pigmentation gradually. It cannot safely erase natural skin colour, and one ingredient will not treat every cause. New pigment can form if acne, rubbing, eczema or sun exposure continues. Melasma commonly recurs, while a changing mole or lesion is outside the scope of cosmetic care. ## How it fits into a routine Start with a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and daily broad-spectrum sunscreen. Add one targeted ingredient, such as niacinamide, vitamin C or another suitable active, after assessing tolerance. Avoid picking acne and repeated harsh scrubbing. Take photographs under similar lighting every few weeks rather than judging daily fluctuations. ## WishCare products - [Advanced Dark Spot Correcting TXA Shot](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/serum-for-reducing-pigmentation-on-face) - [Super Bright Vitamin C16 Serum](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/super-bright-vitamin-c16-serum) - [Vitamin C Pure Glow Milk Sunscreen](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/vitamin-c-pure-glow-milk-spf-50-sunscreen) ## Safety and when to get help Stop a product that causes significant inflammation because irritation can worsen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Seek a dermatologist for widespread, rapidly changing, unexplained or treatment-resistant colour change, and urgently assess a mark that is asymmetrical, bleeding or changing in size or colour. Prescription treatment and peels need professional supervision. ## Frequently asked questions ### Are acne marks and acne scars the same? No. Flat brown or red marks are colour changes; indented or raised scars involve texture and often need different treatment. ### Can pigmentation disappear in a week? Usually not. Visible improvement is gradual and depends on the cause, depth, routine and control of new triggers. ### Why is sunscreen part of pigmentation care? UV exposure can darken existing pigment and trigger more uneven tone, so protection helps preserve progress. ## Related terms - [Vitamin C](/glossary/vitamin-c) - [Kojic Acid](/glossary/kojic-acid) - [Licorice](/glossary/licorice-extract) - [Sun Damage](/glossary/sun-damage) ## References - [American Academy of Dermatology: dark spots in skin of colour](https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/fade-dark-spots) ## Navigation - [Browse glossary](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary) ## Related glossary guides ### Visible Pores: Causes and What Skincare Can Improve Query: Open Pores Pores do not literally open and close. They can look larger when they contain oil and debris or when surrounding skin loses firmness. - [Visible Pores: Causes and What Skincare Can Improve](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary/visible-pores) ### Acne and Acne Marks: Causes, Ingredients and Care Query: Acne & Acne Marks Acne includes clogged pores and inflamed spots. 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