Cosmeceuticals for hyperpigmentation and melasma in Canada

Our online beauty shop sells several options for treating hyperpigmentation and melasma with cosmeceuticals in Canada. Cosmeceuticals are different from ‘regular’ cosmetics in that they often contain more ingredients, along with scientific studies, to help with issues like uneven skin tone. They are a great ‘first step’ before getting into prescriptions (though you should always ask a doctor about your case, to be sure).

Hyperpigmentation and melasma are among the most common complaints among clients we see for skin concerns. Those with dark skin tones seem to suffer the most from skin discolouration. Though, dark spots can occur on anyone. We have over 20 years’ experience treating patients with uneven pigmentation.

Learn more about the causes and treatments of several hyperpigmentation issues at the following links:

• Sun damage
• Freckles and brown spots
• Melasma
• Hyperpigmentation
• Under eye circles

Medical-grade intervention may be needed to treat hyperpigmentation and melasma. We definitely encourage you to see a doctor as a first step to solving this concern.

However, one thing is for sure: this condition cannot be cured with ‘miracles.’ Getting rid of skin darkening requires a daily, regular habit of taking care to avoid pigmentation triggers. Skin routines also help to treat the pigmentation that’s present.

That’s where good skin care comes in. If you’re looking for personalized advice on skin products to use for your hyperpigmentation and melasma, we’d love to help! Book a consultation at our Vancouver-area skin clinic (virtually or in-person). We’ll learn more about you, and make recommendations from there. We are located in Surrey, B.C.

If you prefer to get shopping right away, a good place to start is with our Starter hyperpigmentation kit. It contains essential cosmeceuticals to treat mild freckles and uneven skin tone - all without prescription medication!

In general, you can also shop for hyperpigmentation products with the following tips in mind:

• Your best friend for treating brown spots and patches will be sunscreen. If you are serious about solving hyperpigmentation, you must be obsessed with applying sunscreen. Use a high-SPF, broad spectrum sunblock or sun filter on your skin every day, even if it is cloudy outside, or if you are staying inside. Proper application also means reapplying every two hours. A powder sunscreen can help with this, but it should not serve as your base layer. Of course, wear sun-protective clothing and void direct sunlight or tanning beds.
• Fight skin darkening with topical antioxidants. Antioxidants help to slow the cycle of free radical damage, which can worsen this skin condition over time. Vitamins and other ingredients are known to be powerful antioxidants. See a list of dietary antioxidants here (many come in skin care products, too).
• The top antioxidant for pigmented skin would be vitamin A, in the form of retinoids. Learn more about this ingredient, in its many forms, here. One over-the-counter retinoid is called retinol. It is highly effective for a host of skin issues, including skin tone. It is very strong, and should be used sparingly at first. Build up usage of this product gradually.
• Skin lightening products should also be used with retinoids to fight pigmentation. These are designed to regulate melanin production in the dermis. Try Lytera® 2.0 Pigment Brightening Serum by SkinMedica® and Even Up® Clinical Pigment Perfector® by Colorescience®.
• Retinol and skin lighteners must ONLY be used at night. They also mandate the use of sunscreen every two hours during the day. Hyperpigmentation can get worse if you’re not following this rule.
• If you have dark under-eye circles, use targeted treatments for this area of skin. See our cosmeceutical eye creams and solutions category.
• Hyperpigmented skin needs to be exfoliated regularly, to get rid of dead, darkened skin cells. However, over-exfoliating can make the condition worse. Use a gentle scrub (i.e. physical exfoliant) about once a week, but only if needed (chemical exfoliants are also ok, in moderation). Use a hydrating, non-stripping facial cleanser for daily exfoliation.
• While exfoliating, never forget that skin still needs a healthy balance of water and oil to be able to function and heal. Use a hydrator (such as hyaluronic acid), along with a moisturizer in your daily routine.

Finally, don’t forget that abnormal skin darkening could be a sign of something more serious than a cosmetic concern. Please see your doctor to rule out skin conditions that require treatment for your long-term health. This is especially important if you see new growths or moles on your skin.