How do we deal with hyperpigmentation? The myths, the real deal, and how to fix it

Hey Gen X friends—pull up a chair and let’s talk dark spots, melasma, and the under‑eye darkness that seems louder in our 40s and 50s than it was in our 20s. Hyperpigmentation can be confusing because social media promises “overnight fades” with kitchen hacks. At the same time, dermatology sources recommend maintaining steady routines for weeks to months. So here’s a warm, no‑nonsense conversation: what hyperpigmentation actually is, where it comes from in the skin, what’s worth your time, and where our AbadFace Skincare Algae Eye Serum can fit into a realistic plan.

First, what are we even dealing with? Hyperpigmentation is just melanin—your natural pigment—showing up where you don’t want it, or sticking around longer than it should. Most of the time, that excess pigment is made by melanocytes that live in the basal layer of the epidermis (that’s the lower layer of your top skin). They hand off melanin to surrounding cells, and we see that as sun spots, post‑acne marks, or patches like melasma. That’s why many topical products can help: they reach the epidermis and influence how pigment is made and moved. Sometimes, especially after inflammation or injury, pigment can “drop” deeper into the dermis and become trapped by cells called melanophages. When that happens, fading is slower, and you may need in-office treatments to see a more noticeable difference. (American Academy of Dermatology; DermNet)

Why does this show up more in our 40s and 50s? Time, hormones, and cumulative sun exposure. Our cell turnover is slower, our skin barrier can be a bit more reactive, and the years of UV add up—those are the perfect conditions for spots to overstay their welcome. Suppose you’ve ever noticed melasma darken after a beach day or even after a long drive. In that case, you’re seeing how sensitive pigment pathways are to light, including some visible light. Daily sunscreen isn’t a “nice to have”; it’s the foundation that makes everything else actually work. Studies show that without consistent photoprotection, results stall or backslide. Tinted sunscreens with iron oxides are beneficial for individuals who deal with melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as they filter more visible light. (AAD; Mahmoud et al., JID 2010)

So…can serums and creams fix it? Often, yes—if the pigment is in the epidermis and you’re consistent. The gold‑standard ingredients dermatologists lean on are hydroquinone, azelaic acid, retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, arbutin, and topical tranexamic acid. They work in different ways: some slow down tyrosinase (the enzyme that helps make melanin), some speed up cell turnover, and some block the hand‑off of melanin to neighbouring cells. None of these is a true “overnight” fix. Still, with 8–12 weeks of daily use and sun protection, most people see a real improvement in dark spots and tone—even on mature, sensitive skin. For pigments sitting deeper in the dermis, topicals still help, but you may want to pair them with procedures like superficial chemical peels or carefully selected lasers, performed in experienced hands. (AAD; Cochrane Review 2020; Grimes et al., JAAD)

Let’s clear the air on social media “solutions.” Suppose you’ve seen lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, baking soda scrubs, or undiluted essential oils touted as miracle cures for dark spots. In that case, you’re not alone—and you’re not getting the full story. There’s little to no clinical evidence that DIY tricks safely treat hyperpigmentation, and a significant amount of evidence that irritation can exacerbate pigment issues, especially in deeper skin tones. Even “tingling” peels you mix at home can backfire. Hydrating sheet masks can make skin look temporarily plumper (which we love!). Still, unless they contain proven actives at effective concentrations, they don’t change pigment pathways. Dermatology organizations consistently advise a gentle and evidence-based approach. (AAD; DermNet)

Where does AbadFace Skincare’s Algae Eye Serum fit in? The eye area is a special case. Darkness can originate from multiple sources: actual pigment, visible blue veins beneath thin skin, or simply shadowing due to volume loss and fine lines. That’s why eye care needs to do a few things at once: hydrate, protect, and smooth—without irritating.

Our Algae Eye Serum was built with that in mind. It features:

• Macrocystis pyrifera (kelp) extract. Brown algae are rich in polyphenols called phlorotannins. In lab studies, some brown‑algae extracts show antioxidant and anti‑tyrosinase activity—the same enzyme many brighteners target—so they help defend skin from the oxidative stress that worsens hyperpigmentation and may support a more even look over time. Clinical data specific to under‑eyes are still growing, but antioxidants are a smart ally when you’re chasing brightness. (Heo et al.; Fitoterapia review)
• Sodium hyaluronate. This form of hyaluronic acid attracts water and provides cushioning for delicate skin. A well‑hydrated barrier is calmer and less prone to the irritation that can trigger post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Hydration also instantly makes the eye area look smoother and more refreshed. At the same time, your broader routine does the heavy lifting in terms of pigment. (Papakonstantinou et al.)
• Acetyl hexapeptide‑8 and pentapeptide‑18. These “expression” peptides don’t fade pigment directly, but they can visibly soften the look of fine lines. When lines and crepiness relax a bit, shadows look less intense—so the whole eye area appears more even.
• Butylene glycol for a comfortable glide and better ingredient delivery, plus phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin to keep the formula safe and stable.

Will our Algae Eye Serum eliminate dark spots on its own? No—and we won’t pretend it will. But as part of a realistic, science‑based routine, it supports a brighter, smoother‑looking eye area morning and night. Think of it as the reliable friend that protects and hydrates while your targeted brighteners and sunscreen do their jobs. Apply our Algae Eye Serum twice daily, and keep stronger actives a little away from the lash line if you’re sensitive.

A simple, sustainable routine for 40+ skin. Morning, keep it gentle: cleanse, apply an antioxidant (such as vitamin C or niacinamide, if you prefer), gently tap on Algae Eye Serum, and then finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50. If melasma or PIH are on your radar, a tinted mineral or hybrid sunscreen with iron oxides is worth it. Evening, cleanse again, then choose one targeted treatment: azelaic acid, a retinoid, a kojic/arbutin blend, or—if appropriate and under guidance—a time‑limited hydroquinone routine. Seal with moisturizer and tap on your Algae Eye Cream to support overnight repair. Go slow, especially with retinoids. Irritation equals inflammation, and inflammation invites more pigment to form.

Treatments beyond the bathroom shelf. If your spots barely budge after a season of consistent skincare and sunscreen, it’s reasonable to talk to a dermatologist. Superficial chemical peels (glycolic, lactic, salicylic, Jessner) can steadily lift epidermal pigment. Some lasers and light devices target sun spots and certain pigment patterns, but device choice and operator experience are everything—especially for deeper skin tones where rebound PIH is a risk. Microneedling is another option that’s sometimes paired with topical tranexamic acid or vitamin C. For stubborn melasma, oral tranexamic acid is a physician-directed option with growing evidence. No matter what you try, sun protection remains the key to long-term success. (AAD; Cochrane Review; Taylor & Torok)

Quick answers to the big questions you’ve asked

• What layer of the skin does hyperpigmentation come from? Mostly the basal layer of the epidermis, where melanocytes live; sometimes pigment drops into the dermis, which is tougher to treat. (DermNet)
• Can this be fixed with topical serums and creams? Frequently, yes—for epidermal pigment—with patience and daily sunscreen. Dermal pigment typically requires professional treatments for optimal results. (AAD)
• Are the masks promoted on social media real solutions? Hydration masks can perk things up temporarily, but DIY acids and harsh kitchen ingredients aren’t supported by evidence and can actually worsen pigment. (AAD; DermNet)
• What treatments help? Daily sunscreen, proven topicals (hydroquinone, azelaic acid, retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, arbutin, tranexamic acid), and, when needed, chemical peels, lasers, or microneedling done by experts. (AAD; Cochrane)
• Which ingredients in our Algae Eye Serum help with this issue? Kelp extract provides antioxidants and lab-based anti-tyrosinase activity, while sodium hyaluronate supports a calm, hydrated barrier, and line-softening peptides make the area appear smoother, together helping the eye area appear brighter as part of a comprehensive routine. (Heo et al.; Papakonstantinou et al.)
• What can you do to prevent hyperpigmentation? Sun‑smart habits every single day; treat breakouts gently (no picking); avoid over‑exfoliating; build a steady routine; and keep the eye area protected and hydrated with products like AbadFace Skincare Algae Eye Cream. (AAD)

If you’re reading this and thinking, “Okay, I’m ready to start,” here’s your small, meaningful first step: commit to daily sunscreen and make our Algae Eye Serum your twice‑daily ritual. Then add one brightening active at a time. Slow and steady really does win here.

Important reminder and community note: I’m not a scientist, dermatologist, or medical expert—I’m a curious skincare lover just like you. This blog is an exploration of the truth about skincare and an attempt to debunk some of the myths surrounding it. We would love to hear about your experiences and the solutions that have worked for your skin. This is a conversation for all of us to find the best habits for aging skin. Please keep it respectful—rude or derogatory comments will not be responded to and will be deleted.

*references can be found here.