Hyperpigmentation is one of the most stubborn skin concerns, often misunderstood, frequently mistreated, and rarely addressed at the root. At its core, it’s the result of excess melanin production, triggered by factors like UV exposure, inflammation, hormonal shifts, and even heat. But not all pigmentation is the same. Melasma, for instance, is a deeper, more hormonally driven condition that resists conventional treatments and often rebounds when harsh ingredients are used.


This guide was developed to support you in navigating the complexities of pigmentation, offering safer, more sustainable solutions rooted in functional beauty. From internal support to topical actives, we’ll walk through the multi-layered strategies needed to gradually fade dark spots, calm inflammation, and restore your skin’s natural clarity, without triggering further irritation or sensitivity.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the core pillars in managing hyperpigmentation the right way, from targeted supplements and skin-friendly actives to essential lifestyle shifts that protect your results long-term.

Key Strategies for Managing Hyperpigmentation Safely & Effectively

- Protection:

Daily use of a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen is non-negotiable. Zinc oxide protects against both UVA and UVB rays, preventing pigmentation from worsening and shielding your progress.

- Tyrosinase Inhibitors:

To reduce excess melanin at the source, incorporate azelaic acid and tranexamic acid, both known for their ability to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme involved in melanin production. These are ideal for sensitive skin and effective against stubborn melasma.

- Melanin Transfer Blockers:

Niacinamide plays a critical role here. It not only strengthens the skin barrier but also slows down the transfer of melanin to keratinocytes (skin cells), helping prevent uneven pigmentation from forming at the surface.

- Gentle Exfoliation:

Low-dose AHAs and retinoid alternatives like granactive retinoid encourage cell turnover, gradually lifting away discolored skin cells without compromising the lipid barrier. Avoid aggressive exfoliation which can worsen pigmentation through inflammation.

- Antioxidant Support:

Topical and internal antioxidants are essential to neutralize oxidative stress, a key driver of pigmentation. Opt for:

- Vitamin C (in stable, non-irritating forms like Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate or Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate)

- Green Tea Extract (rich in EGCG, which modulates melanogenesis)

- Licorice Root Extract (a natural brightener and anti-inflammatory)

- Resveratrol (found in Neurogan Health or Nutrachamps), which protects against UV-induced pigment changes and supports healthy cell signaling

- Spermidine (from Calm Beauty or Neurogan Health), which promotes autophagy, a cellular clean-up process essential for skin clarity and renewal

What makes it ideal for hyperpigmentation?

⭐ Key Nutrients Backed by Research:

✅ Niacinamide (16 mg) – A proven melanin transfer inhibitor. It strengthens the skin barrier and reduces post-inflammatory pigmentation.

✅Zinc Bisglycinate (7.6 mg) – Helps regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and support skin healing, crucial for acne-related pigmentation and melasma.

✅ Selenium (44 mcg) – Supports natural glutathione production, your body’s master antioxidant, which protects against oxidative stress-induced dark spots.

✅ Vitamin C (90 mg) – Internally supports collagen production and regulates melanin synthesis.

✅ Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A) – Converts into retinol in the body and aids in healthy skin cell turnover, essential for fading existing discoloration.

✅ Vitamin E (12 mg) – A synergistic antioxidant that protects skin lipids and soothes inflammation.

✅ L-Cysteine (100 mg) – A precursor to glutathione, supporting detoxification and cellular clarity.

✅ Why It Works:
Hyperpigmentation isn’t just skin-deep. It’s often driven by internal inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances. Better Roots addresses those root causes, quietly and powerfully, while reinforcing your skin’s ability to repair and regenerate.

🕒 How to Take It:
Take 1 capsule daily, ideally with a meal that includes healthy fats to maximize absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K2.

A sample of a Hyperpigmentation Routine applied according to the TBD method of application

✅ AM Routine – Brighten + Protect

1️⃣ CLEANSE
Use a gentle cream cleanser to refresh the skin without stripping moisture (Blubiome Hydrating Milk Cleanser is Nadia’s top choice).

2️⃣ MIST
Apply a mineral-rich toner or mist to help balance pH and activate humectants in your next step (Taila is excellent).

3️⃣ ACTIVATE (Water-Based Serum)
→ Omic 10% Tranexamic acid face serum
Contains azelaic acid, niacinamide, and stable vitamin C to reduce pigmentation, calm inflammation, and hydrate.

→ Follow with TAHNYC Niacinamide 15% + Peptides (optional layering if tolerated—this can be rotated with Versine or applied after if skin is resilient and not reactive).

4️⃣ TREAT (Oil-Based Serum with Vitamin C)
→ Barrier Repair Serum – Plant Retinol + C
Infuses skin with vitamins A, C, E and fatty acids to brighten, strengthen the barrier, and reduce pigmentation over time.

5️⃣ PROTECT
→ Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen Serum SPF 50
A lightweight mineral sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection with hydrating botanical support to prevent new spots from forming.

🌙 PM Routine – Repair + Regenerate

1️⃣ CLEANSE
Double Cleanse:
Step 1: Use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and excess oils (Blubiome Nourishing Oil Cleanser)

Step 2: Follow with a cream cleanser to remove residue and deeply cleanse without stripping the skin

2️⃣ MIST
→ Hydrating mist or mineral toner to prep the skin and activate your water-based serums.

3️⃣ ACTIVATE (Water-Based Serum)
→ Use Versine or TAHNYC, depending on your AM choice. Alternate to avoid overloading with niacinamide or actives.

4️⃣ TREAT (Oil-Based Serum)
→ Apply Barrier Repair Serum again to restore moisture and support skin recovery overnight.

5️⃣ PROTECT (Occlusive Cream or Sleeping Mask)
→ If your skin feels dry or in recovery mode, layer a barrier-repairing cream or balm such as Blubiome Stem Cell Repair or TBD Skin Savior) to seal in the serums.

✴️ RENEW (1–2x Weekly)

Option A – Nighttime Exfoliation (leave-on):
→ Luna Rain Overnight Exfoliating Serum (for skin that’s normal to oily, not sensitive): Use in place of your water-based serum on exfoliation nights.
Option B – Weekly Mask Treatment:
→ Agent Nateur Holi (Bright) Resurface Glass Face Mask (dry and sensitive skin types)
Use as a mask 1-2 times a week. Leave on, up to 30 minutes, rinse and follow with your evening routine.

Start here: HYPERPIGMENTATION BUNDLE

Achieve an even and radiant complexion with the Hyperpigmentation Bundle. Carefully curated with effective products, this bundle includes everything you need to visibly fade dark spots, brighten dull skin, and support a more uniform tone effectively.

Shop the Acne Bundle