Do you have dark spots that appeared or worsened after summer?
Are you looking for ways to achieve a brighter and more even skin tone?
This guide explains what hyperpigmentation is, its main causes and types, and how to treat and prevent dark spots using an effective skincare routine.
The Main Types of Dark Spots
1. Age Spots (Liver Spots or Sun Spots)
These spots are age-related and caused by excessive sun exposure over the years.
They usually appear after the age of 40, especially on the face, neckline, and hands, and are more common in people with lighter skin tones.
2. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
PIH appears after acne, eczema, burns, or wounds as a result of skin inflammation.
It happens when the skin’s repair process hasn’t fully completed.
This type of pigmentation is often more visible on darker skin tones.
3. Melasma (Pregnancy Mask)
The exact cause of melasma is not fully known, but it often worsens with sun exposure.
It is linked to hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or oral contraceptive use, and can also have a genetic component.
How to Treat Hyperpigmentation
If your dark spots look irregular, always consult a dermatologist first.
Otherwise, most types of hyperpigmentation can be treated with the right cosmetic skincare routine.
The most effective approach is a targeted day and night layering routine.
Layering allows different active ingredients to work together for faster and more visible results.
Remember: consistency is key—dark spots won’t disappear overnight, but regular care delivers results.
3 Essential Steps to Prevent and Treat Dark Spots
1. Neutralize Free Radicals with Antioxidants
Free radicals (caused by sun, pollution, and stress) accelerate skin aging and pigmentation.
Solution: Use antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Resveratrol.
Helwé products rich in Vitamin C:
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Sérum Radieux (L-ascorbic Vitamin C)
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Sérum Éclat (10% liposoluble Vitamin C)
Helwé products rich in Vitamin E:
2. Inhibit Melanin Production
To fade existing spots and prevent new ones, you need to regulate melanin production.
Solution: Use ingredients like Retinoids, Bakuchiol, and Arbutin.
Helwé products with Bakuchiol (a natural alternative to retinol):
3. Exfoliate to Renew the Skin
Gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells and speeds up cell renewal, improving skin brightness.
Solution: Use exfoliants with AHA (Glycolic, Lactic Acid) and BHA (Salicylic Acid).
Helwé products with AHA:
Night Skincare Routine for Hyperpigmentation
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Double cleanse your skin to remove impurities.
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Apply an exfoliating lotion or mask:
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For normal, combination, and oily skin → use Lotion Exfoliante Peau Parfaite daily and Masque Clarté 2–3 times per week.
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For sensitive skin → use Lotion Exfoliante Peau Douce, enriched with lactic acid, to gently renew the skin.
(Note: Exfoliating products are photosensitive—apply them only at night.)
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Apply your night care products that boost skin renewal:
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Sérum Perfection (with Bakuchiol)
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Sérum Nuit Essentielle (brightens and evens the complexion)
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Morning Skincare Routine for Bright, Even Skin
In the morning, your focus should be on antioxidant protection to fight free radicals.
Use antioxidant-rich products such as:
These formulas contain Q10, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid, Sea Buckthorn, Tomato Lycopene, and Carrot Extracts—powerful antioxidants that revitalize the skin, fade dark spots, and slow down aging.
The Result: A Brighter, Healthier Complexion
By following this complete layering routine, you can expect:
✨ A more radiant glow
✨ Even skin tone
✨ Visible reduction of dark spots
Consistency pays off—after 3 to 4 weeks, your complexion will look healthier, brighter, and more balanced.
