pigmentation mild-to-persistent

Dark Spots & Pigmentation · 잡티·색소침착

Also called: hyperpigmentation · melasma · post-inflammatory pigmentation · PIH · 기미 · 주근깨 · 색소침착

Updated May 2026. Based on public dermatology references (AAD, MedlinePlus, NHS) plus K-beauty editorial summary. Editorial summary — not regulatory or medical advice.

What it is

Hyperpigmentation covers a spectrum — sun-driven sun spots, melasma (hormonal patches), and post-inflammatory marks left by acne or irritation. Each subtype responds differently to topical care and benefits from disciplined sun protection.

한국어 설명

색소침착은 광선성(자외선) 흑색반·기미·여드름 자국(PIH) 등 여러 형태를 포함한다. 각 유형마다 외용 케어 반응이 다르며, 모든 케이스에 자외선 차단이 기본 베이스로 깔린다.

Common triggers

K-beauty approach

K-beauty layers tone-evening ingredients (niacinamide, tranexamic acid, vitamin C, azelaic acid) on top of strict daily SPF — and treats sunscreen as the most important brightening step, since UV undoes topical results.

한국어 설명

K-뷰티는 미백 성분(나이아신아마이드·트라넥삼산·비타민 C·아젤라익산)을 엄격한 자외선 차단 위에 쌓는다. 사실상 가장 강력한 미백 단계는 매일의 선크림이다. 자외선이 외용 케어 효과를 무효화하기 때문.

Ingredients to consider

Hero ingredients

Heaviest-evidence picks for this concern.

Niacinamide · 나이아신아마이드 Tranexamic Acid · 트라넥삼산 Vitamin C · 비타민 C Azelaic Acid · 아젤라익산

Supporting ingredients

Useful alongside the heroes, or alternatives for sensitive routines.

Glutathione · 글루타치온 Retinol · 레티놀

Related answer guides

When to see a clinician

For melasma or pigmentation not responding to 12+ weeks of consistent topical care + sun protection, a dermatologist can offer prescription-strength options (hydroquinone, tretinoin, laser).

External references

Not medical advice. Educational summary based on public dermatology references and editorial review. For diagnosis, prescription treatment, or persistent / worsening concerns, see a qualified clinician — this page is a shopper-side starting point, not a replacement for individualized care.