Did you know that over 5 million people in the United States struggle with some form of hyperpigmentation? From sunspots to melasma and post-inflammatory dark marks, hyperpigmentation can be a stubborn skin concern, especially when summer hits full stride. At Refinery Skin Clinic, we understand how frustrating it can be to feel like you’re doing all the right things and still see dark spots deepen in the mirror.

Let’s break down what causes hyperpigmentation, why it tends to worsen during the warmer months, and what you can do to keep your skin clear, radiant, and protected all summer long.

What Is Hyperpigmentation & Why Is Summer Its Worst Enemy?

Hyperpigmentation occurs when our skin produces too much melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and how our skin tans during the summer. This can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

  • Sun exposure
  • Hormonal changes (hello, melasma!)
  • Skin inflammation (like acne or injury)
  • Certain medications or health conditions

Once the skin has been “trained” to produce excess pigment, it doesn’t take much to re-trigger those melanin-making cells. And that’s where summer comes in. Sun exposure and heat are two of the biggest culprits when it comes to activating pigmentation and making it worse. UV rays not only stimulate melanin production but can also darken existing spots, making hyperpigmentation more visible and more challenging to treat. Add the hotter temps in summer into the mix, and you have a perfect storm of pigment-producing triggers!

Top 5 Tips to Manage Hyperpigmentation During Summer

#1 – Block the Sun Stylishly!

Protecting your skin from UV rays is essential, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing summer fun. Large-brimmed hats, oversized sunglasses, shade umbrellas, and lightweight UPF clothing are your best friends. And don’t forget to avoid peak sun hours between 10am and 2pm, when rays are strongest.

#2 –  Wear Your SPF Every. Single. Day.

Daily sunscreen isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of any effective pigmentation plan. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors. For hyperpigmentation, especially pigment driven by hormonal conditions like melasma, Refinery Skin Clinic Providers swear by:

  • Revision Skincare® TruPhysical SPF 45 – an excellent multi-benefit daily anti-aging moisturizer for those with a busy lifestyle, as it corrects, protects, conceals, brightens, and hydrates in one step.

#3 –  Keep Your Cool

Did you know that heat alone—even without sun exposure—can make hyperpigmentation worse? Saunas, hot yoga, exercising outdoors, cooking over a hot stove, and even steamy summer weather can trigger melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Prioritize cool environments, use cold compresses after workouts, and opt for gentle, calming skincare in warmer weather to keep hyperpigmentation at bay.

#4 –  Support Your Skin from Within

Summer is not the time to abandon your pigment-correcting routine. In fact, the right products can help suppress melanogenesis (the formation of melanin) and keep skin bright, balanced, and even-toned.

Luckily, SkinMedica® has a comprehensive line of skincare products custom-tailored to fight hyperpigmentation at its source, with products that can safely be used during the summer months.

The Even & Correct Collection combines scientifically backed formulas that fade discoloration, target stubborn dark spots, and boost overall skin clarity without the downtime of more aggressive treatments.

  • Even & Correct Dark Spot Cream is a fast-acting spot treatment booster that addresses even the most stubborn dark spots left by skin damage from acne or sun exposure. Be sure to wear sunscreen with this product because it DOES contain retinol and glycolic to lift away damaged pigment cells. Shop this product

5. Plan Ahead for Fall

Summer is for maintenance. Fall and winter? That’s when we go after pigment full-force! Booking a consultation now with one of our Advanced Practice Estheticians allows you to prep your skin for powerful in-clinic treatments like IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), SkinPen® microneedling with Ariessence PDGF+, and chemical peels.

One of Refinery Skin Clinic’s go-to treatments for pre-IPL prep is the VI Peel®. This powerfully effective, yet gentle peel is a fantastic way to exfoliate, refine, and start breaking up pigment while setting the stage for even better results with professional treatments in the future.

You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help

At Refinery Skin Clinic, we understand that hyperpigmentation is more than just a cosmetic concern; it can affect your confidence and quality of life. But here’s the good news: with the right strategy, support, and clinical treatments, you can retake control of your skin.

Our experienced team knows what works, and we’re ready to help you build an annual treatment plan that protects, corrects, and maintains clear, radiant skin year-round.

Let’s put you back in control of your complexion. Book your complimentary consultation today, and start your journey toward skin that glows confidently, no matter the season! Don’t wait, take the first step towards clear, radiant skin now.

Call or text 952-479-0915 to get started, or book your consultation online!