
Who doesn’t want flawlessly beautiful skin? We sure do. Bad skin riddled with spots, freckles, and skin discoloration not only distorts your appearance, but it can also lower self-confidence, thereby leading to emotional and mental problems.
This is why it is important to deal with pigmented skins. While the serum is quite effective on hyperpigmentation, nothing beats the 12 best face washes for hyperpigmentation. The good news is that we have selected the 12 best products just for you. Let’s review them all.
Related articles:
10 Best Remington Hair Straighteners Reviews & Guide [2021]
Best After Tanning Lotion in 2021 [Updated Reviews]
Best Blue Black Hair Dye for Dark Hair in 2021
Image | Product | Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() |
La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Cleanser | ||
![]() |
Insta Natural Facial Cleanser | ||
![]() |
Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser | ||
![]() |
Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser Anti-Aging Face Wash | ||
![]() |
Neutrogena Pore Refining Exfoliating Facial Cleanser |
Table of Contents
What is Hyperpigmentation?
It is a condition in which skin patches become dark than our normal skin. The main reason behind hyperpigmentation is the excess of melanin and brown pigment that works in producing normal skin color and other skin-related deposits.
How long does it take to get rid of hyperpigmentation?
Generally, it takes between six months to one year for dark spots on your skin to fade. However, your skin type determines how long it will take the most time. For some skin types, it only takes about 7 weeks.
What are some other Treatments of hyperpigmentation?
There are some creams and serum that effectively work great in balancing skin color. Other than this, laser skin resurfacing and microdermabrasion treatment is an expensive treatment solution for major skin-related issues. We advise you to go for the best face wash and cleansers first as they are generally cheaper.
12 Best Face Washes for Hyperpigmentation
1. La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Cleanser

La Roche is the famous cosmetic company mainly known for the quality and performance of the product and that’s the reason we have placed it in one number one position. The cleanser contains lipo-hydroxy acid that effectively removes the dullness of your skin. It contains elements that are most effective for your skin and purify your skin from dirt and debris.
It is a multi-use face wash mainly used for removing dead and dull skin particles. For the most effective result, we recommend you use it twice daily. The best part about this face wash is that it will not tighten up against your skin surface, rather it will give a smooth effect throughout the day.
This cleanser is safe for sensitive skin and that’s why the product is highly recommended by dermatologists. So, if you are looking for a daily use option then La Roche Cleanser is a highly recommended option for you.
- effective to remove dullness
- Multi use face wash
- safe for sensetive skin also
- no cons found
2. Insta Natural Facial Cleanser

Insta natural is another product we recommend for hyperpigmentation. It is made up of 100% natural ingredients that completely clean up imperfections without harming your skin.
The cleanser contains glycolic acid that breaks the dullness and provides deep cleansing to your skin. Other than this, the cleanser is most effective in hydrating your skin with the help of natural elements like lemon, apple, sugarcane, and vitamin E.
Besides, it works on every skin type so you don’t have to worry about the product not being the right one for your skin type. So, in this facial cleanser, you will get a complete package for all your major skin issues like discoloration, pores, aging lines, and spots.
If your skin is facing a redness issue then it will be a game-changing option for you.
- Has extreme anti oxident benefits
- Balances complexion
- Organic aloe vera and green tea gives refreshed look
- patch test needed
3. Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Murad is the most popular brand that generally works on the cell of your skin. The company believes that behind every skin-related issue there is a major role of cells and we have to work on that if we need a permanent solution.
The cleanse works on cellular level hydration and activates youth. The face wash is made up of three powerful acids which are glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acid. These are known for their effects on the dullness and impurities of the skin.
The best thing about the cleanser is that it comes with an anti-aging formula that completely works on making your skin younger and active. It works on polishing your skin surface without making your skin dry.
Although the price is comparatively high than other similar cleansers or face wash, it is all worth it due to the features included in the package.
- Great for many skin related issues
- Has antiaging formula
- Removes dullness and impurities
- Exfoliation feature should be improved
4. Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser Anti-Aging Face Wash

It is another top product on our bucket list. The company features a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, a feature that shows the quality and performance of the product.
It is made up of the most natural ingredients including tea tree, organic olive oil, organic aloe vera, and organic rosehip oil that will not only help in hyperpigmentation but also helps in removing dirt and makes your skin look fresh and cool.
The cleanser includes 2.5% glycolic acid plus willow bark that acts as a safeguard and increasing the brightness of your skin. The catchiest thing about this product is that it is 100% environment friendly, so no toxic and harmful ingredients are mixed.
It works great on some other skin issues like clogged pores, discoloration, dead skin, dark spots, and moisturizing and nourishing your skin.
- Made of all natural ingredients
- 100% environmental friendly
- Removes any form of discoloration
- No cons found
5. Neutrogena Pore Refining Exfoliating Facial Cleanser

If you are looking for a solution to those stubborn spots then Neutrogena is the best option to consider. This cleanser is mostly preferred by dermatologists as it will shrink the size of any spot in just one week.
The cleanser works with alpha and beta formulas that majorly work on all skin-related problems like removing dead cells, improving skin tone, and providing a smoothening effect to your skin.
It is an effective cleanser that clogs your pores and eliminates the dirt that makes your skin rough and dull. Other than this, the cream is best for preventing your skin from pimples and removing the dark spots caused by pimples.
If you are suffering from acne scars then this will be a transformational move for you.
- Comes with alpha and beta formula
- Removes pimples
- Transforms acne scars
- Not that great for sensetive skin
6. Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser

This facial cleanser is one of the best-rated on amazon. It is enriched with glycolic acid which is essential to treat your hyperpigmentation, hence the reason it made it to our list.
The deep cleansing and exfoliating action of glycolic acid are needed for removing dust and dullness and also softens and brightens the skin. Besides, it comes with arginine and calming extracts that help with collagen production and soothes skin as well.
We love that it is made of natural ingredients such as sugarcane, Vitamin E, willow bark, apple, chamomile, and lemon. This makes it suitable for any skin type. This facial cleanser is a perfect solution for any kind of stubborn skin issue.
- Great for all skin types
- Has antiaging features
- Filles with all-natural ingredients
- The smell is not good
7. Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser

If you require a cleanser made from herbal extracts, then this foaming cleanser will be a great choice for you. The facewash is not only good for hyperpigmentation, but it also clears dark spots and acne scars and provides the healthiest way to clear skin.
The face wash contains 8 to 10% of glycolic acid, St. John’s wort, marshmallow, chamomile, sage, and yarrow. All the ingredients are great for making skin calm, youthful, and healthy. Besides, if used continuously, fine lines, blemishes, and wrinkles will vanish from your skin.
This foaming face wash contains exfoliating powers that deep cleanses the skin and removes unwanted dirt on the face surface. Moreover, the skin also becomes radiant and smooth. It also resolves the problem of discoloration of the skin, all of which make it the perfect product for you.
- Great for many kinds of skin problems
- Leaves a smooth, radiant and clear skin
- Great exfoliating powers
- Not that suitable for dry skin
8. Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid Face Wash

Botanic Tree Glycolic Acid face wash comes with all organic ingredients that successfully work for hyperpigmentation and also solves many other skin problems. It reduces age spots, acne scars while making your dull skin more radiant and younger. It deeply cleanses your skin and provides extra nourishment.
The face wash contains 10% glycolic, a bit of alpha-hydroxy formula seaweed, shea butter, bamboo, tea tree, peppermint, willow bark, and lavender. All of these ingredients ensure that skin issues such as painful pimples, infection, or inflammation are taken care of. Moreover, it removes all the dust and impurities without making your skin dull and dry.
Along with these, this facewash will correct your skin texture with aluminum oxide crystal beads. It is suitable for all skin types and genders, hence, it will be satisfactory to use for all skin types.
- Great for both genders
- Corrects skin texture
- Smells good
- The smell can be too fragrant for someone
9. 10% Glycolic Acid Face Wash

10% Glycolic Acid face wash contains a perfect amount of glycolic acid along with a P.H reading of 3.5 and alpha hydroxy acid strength all of which make it an ideal face wash for hyperpigmentation.
The facewash is also great to treat uneven skin tones and texture, age spots, blemishes, fine lines, blackheads, and large pores. It will leave your skin glowing and youthful.
It comes with green tea and chamomile extracts that handle skin irritation, inflammation and exfoliates skin without making it dry. Along with these, it also increases collagen and fights for aging spots and wrinkles. The blackheads will also wipe out with regular use of this face wash.
Moreover, you can use it on other parts of your body like arms, and shoulders. Also, it can be used as a makeup remover. The effective ingredients of the face wash will make your skin smoother, and radiant. It is great for normal, dry, and acne-prone skins as well as oily skins.
- Protects from having breakouts
- Can be used on other parts of the body
- Great for all skin types
- The fragrance is so powerful.
10. SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

Environmental pollution makes your skin dull and dirty which can lead to many skin problems such as acne or pimple. So, exfoliation is important to clean up that dirt and remove dead skins.
This exfoliating cleanser will make your work easier as it comes with a combination of two naturally derived ingredients; beta-hydroxy acid, and alpha-hydroxy acid. These ingredients are great for skin exfoliation as they leave your skin looking youthful and refreshed.
Also, it has jojoba spheres that remove dead skin, dark spots and reduce the visibility of wrinkles and aging spots. It also improves your skin texture and treats uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation.
SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is considered the most effective face wash to treat hyperpigmentation and severe discoloration. Moreover, it will make your skin appear more active and radiant.
- Comes with naturally derived ingredients
- Removes dirt and pollutants
- Cleans makeup
- No cons found
11. Dr Song Glycolic Acid Face Wash

If you want a natural exfoliation with deep cleansing, then Dr. Song Glycolic Acid Face Wash will be great for you. It comes with 10% glycolic acid that treats hyperpigmentation swiftly. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Along with glycolic acid, the facewash has AHA or alpha-hydroxy that pulls dirt, impurities, and blemishes while also functioning as a makeup remover. It works gently on your skin, thereby giving you refreshed, healthy and glowing look.
Moreover, this face wash comes with a non-dry formula and also contains vitamin E and hyaluronic acid that moisturizes and nourishes your skin properly. A distinct difference is noticed after the first use; it will also balance your skin pH level. The facewash can be a great solution for many skin problems for any type of skin.
- Result shows so quickly
- Comes with non drying formula
- Reduces breakouts
- First use can make a bit tingle
12. RAYA Mint Soufflé Facial Cleanser

If you are searching for a face wash that is enriched with many luxurious ingredients, this face wash is just for you. The key ingredients of this facewash are- aloe vera, sage extract, mint, shea butter, horsetail extract, thyme extract, and fucus. It is filled with advanced formulas that will give you a spa-like facial experience.
Besides this, the mint smell leaves a refreshing and cool feeling, aloe vera gives a soothing effect and offers a relaxing vibe. The face wash is suitable for all skin types and it has antibacterial activity that provides a clear complexion.
Besides, it has a probiotic essence that handles progressive autoimmune disease of the skin, acne, breakouts, irritation, hyperpigmentation, and other skin diseases as well. Along with these, RAYA Mint Soufflé Facial Cleanser is great for removing facial hair also. So, it’s an all-in-one package for you.
- Can be used as shaving cream
- Has a refreshing scent
- Treats autoimmune disease
- No cons found
Things to Consider While Buying Face wash for Hyperpigmentation
The following factors when considered will ensure you purchase the ideal face wash suitable for you. These factors include:
Ingredients
Before selecting the best face wash for hyperpigmentation, it is important to check out the ingredients listed, as doing so will determine if the products have the right ingredients needed to treat your skin problem. The effective ingredients for hyperpigmentation are- glycolic acid, lactic acid, azelaic acid, salicylic acid or willow bark, Vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, licorice extract, and hydroquinone.
Ingredients with bleaching and exfoliation formula are best to treat uneven skin tone because bleaching lightens the skin tone while exfoliation removes dirt and dead cells from the skin.
Along with these, some other ingredients can also be used as lightning formulas such as fruit extracts like arginine, orange peel powder, yucca extracts, etc. These will heal and repair the skin and make it smoother.
Cleansing Properties
Cleansing properties are important features necessary to treat hyperpigmentation. Many natural ingredients contain essential cleansing properties that help to cure hyperpigmentation along with other skin-related problems. For example- tea tree oil is a cleansing ingredient that cleans the skin and reduces breakouts, acne, inflammation, irritation, and even uneven skin tone.
Hyaluronic acid works for anti-aging signs like fine lines, wrinkles, and removes dead skin cells. Also, Vitamin C and Vitamin E both have antioxidant properties that nourish and moisturize the skin.
These facial cleansing ingredients will make a shield for your skin and protect it from UV rays, dirt, and pollutants while making your skin smooth and fresh.
Skin Type
Generally, most face washes for hyperpigmentation contain ingredients that are safe for all skin types. However, you should always take precautions before using any product on your face.
People who have normal and combination skin might not face any problem or reaction, but those who have sensitive and oily skin should check the ingredients and fragrance so that they don’t face any irritation or inflammation.
To ensure the product is safe for use, carry out a patch test before use.
Causes of Hyperpigmentation on Face
Generally, hyperpigmentation occurs as a result of an increased rate of melanin production by the human body. Several factors can cause this to happen, and in this section, we would be looking at these factors in detail. They include the following:
- Exposure to the sun.
- Hormonal triggers due to pregnancy.
- Inflammation.
- Aging.
- Diseases and Medications.
Exposure to Sun
The most commonly accepted factor known to trigger hyperpigmentation is direct exposure to the sun’s rays for a prolonged period. This is because sunlight generally triggers the human body to produce melanin.
Melanin is the body’s first line of defense against the harsh UV rays emitted by the sun. In other words, when a person is exposed to sunlight, melanin is produced to protect the skin from the sun’s rays, causing skin tan. However, excessive exposure alters the process and leads to hyperpigmentation, leaving patches on the skin.
Hormonal triggers due to pregnancy
This factor is prevalent in pregnant women and causes a type of hyperpigmentation referred to as melasma. It occurs when estrogen and progesterone secreted in pregnant women stimulates the production of melanin in excess due to exposure to the sun.
Inflammation
When the skin suffers from injuries such as burns (from fire or chemical), cuts, acne, etc., which we refer to generally as inflammation, it is usually followed by hyperpigmentation after the injury heals.
This condition leaves that portion of the skin discolored or darker than the other parts of the skin, especially for persons with a darker skin type.
Aging
Another major factor that causes hyperpigmentation is aging. As humans get old, our skin also ages. This factor causes a reduction in the number of melanocytes (cells responsible for producing melanin) in the body.
However, the melanocytes left behind increase in size and produce more melanin in the portion of skin where there are located. This leads to dark patches on different parts of the skin.
Diseases and Medications
Certain diseases can cause hyperpigmentation to occur in the skin. They hemochromatosis and Addison’s disease. Addison’s disease causes hyperpigmentation to occur in certain areas of the skin. These areas include lips, knuckles, skin folds, knees, and elbows, etc.
Drugs/medications used in chemotherapy as well as antimalarial, and antibiotic drugs can also trigger skin hyperpigmentation.
Tips To Prevent Hyperpigmentation
Although hyperpigmentation is not a condition that can be prevented because of some of the factors that trigger it. However, there are still tips, when followed judiciously, that will guarantee you protection from it. They include:
Use of Sunscreen
Hyperpigmentation is majorly triggered by sun rays; therefore, you must protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays. Sunscreen containing SPF 30 can do the job effectively. It would provide UVA and UVB protection which prevents the formation of dark spots on the skin.
Right clothing/apparel
You should take into consideration the kind of clothes you wear on sunny days and even on cloudy days. Always put on hats or clothes that generally protect the skin from the rays of the sun, while also keeping you warm and comfortable. Sunglasses have their perks too.
Limit exposure to intense sunlight
The sun is usually at its highest intensity from about 10 am-4 pm. If you can, then avoid being out by that time of day. This way, you would be limiting you’re the amount of sunlight you are exposed to. However, if you must head out, do not forget to put on the protective clothing discussed above.
Avoid Certain Medications
As discussed earlier, certain medications such as antibacterial, antibiotics, and anti-seizure drugs could result in hyperpigmentation. Know what your body reacts to and avoid them if possible. This can go a long way to ensure you don’t develop.
After adhering to these tips and you still get exposed to the sun, then you must apply a sun protection cream or product immediately. So, you must know what product works best for your skin and apply it as often as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why do you need face wash for hyperpigmentation?
The face wash is needed to get rid of hyperpigmentation and to maintain the desired look. Face wash will remove hyperpigmentation with bleaching and lightening formulas and make a shield to protect your skin.
Q2. How long it might take time to treat hyperpigmentation?
Treatment depends on your skin type and the facewash chosen. Some products show a quick result while some are slower. Generally, it takes 6 months to a year to treat hyperpigmentation properly.
Q3. What is the best natural ingredient to clear hyperpigmentation?
Aloe vera contains aloin that works effectively for lightening the skin and removing hyperpigmentation. It will give a quick result on the pigmented area.
Q4. What are the best cleansers to treat dark spots?
The best cleansers for dark spots are- Vitamin C, kojic acid, glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acid, licorice, and salicylic acid. These cleaning ingredients reduce dark spots so effectively and also safe to use for all skin types.
Conclusion
Although there are expensive options available on the market such as laser treatment, the use of face wash will help clear hyperpigmentation without damaging your skin or drilling a hole in your pocket.
While shopping for the best face wash for hyperpigmentation, ensure the product chosen contains natural ingredients such as Vitamin C, kojic acid, and glutathione, these elements nourish dull skin and make your skin glow.
Regular use will ensure better results, so don’t give up on the first trial. So, go ahead and make your choice from our list of 12 best face washes for hyperpigmentation, your skin will thank you for it.