Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns we treat at Soul Aesthetics. Whether it’s sunspots, melasma, post-inflammatory marks from acne, or hormonal discoloration, this uneven skin tone can be both frustrating and stubborn. But the good news? You don’t have to live with it. Today’s hyperpigmentation treatments are more advanced—and more effective—than ever.

If you’re tired of covering up dark patches with makeup or spending money on over-the-counter products that don’t work, it’s time to explore clinical-grade solutions tailored to your skin type and tone. From chemical peels to fractional laser therapy, here are some of the most effective hyperpigmentation treatment options we offer at Soul Aesthetics.

Chemical Peels: Controlled Exfoliation for Brighter Skin

One of the most popular options for treating hyperpigmentation is a chemical peel. By applying a chemical solution to the skin, we can trigger the exfoliation of damaged outer layers—removing dead skin cells and helping pigment lift from the surface.

At Soul, we often recommend VI Peels, which are medium-depth peels designed to address everything from melasma to sun damage and acne scars. These peels contain ingredients like TCA, salicylic acid, and vitamin C to brighten the skin, reduce pigmentation, and stimulate new collagen.

Who it’s best for: Mild to moderate hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, sun damage
Recovery time: Peeling begins around day 3 and typically resolves by day 7
Results: Brighter, smoother, more even skin in one week, with optimal results after a series

CO2 Laser: For Deep, Stubborn Pigmentation

When hyperpigmentation is severe or tied to deeper skin layers, CO2 laser treatment may be the most effective option. CO2 resurfacing works by creating controlled micro-injuries to the skin using fractional laser energy. This not only targets the pigmented areas but also stimulates your body’s natural collagen and cell turnover processes.

At Soul Aesthetics, we offer light, medium, and deep CO2 laser options—each tailored to your individual skin needs and downtime tolerance. Because of its intensity, this hyperpigmentation treatment is ideal for those looking for long-term, transformative results.

Who it’s best for: Moderate to severe pigmentation, acne scars, sun damage, and aging skin
Recovery time: Varies depending on depth—mild redness and peeling for several days to over a week
Results: Significant improvement in tone, texture, and pigmentation after one treatment

Important note: After CO2 laser treatment, sun exposure must be avoided. Direct UV rays can trigger melanin production, which may worsen pigmentation or delay healing. You’ll need to wear SPF daily and avoid tanning beds altogether during your healing process.

Ultra LaseMD: Gentle Yet Effective Laser Treatment

Looking for a less intense option than CO2? The Ultra LaseMD laser is an excellent treatment for hyperpigmentation, especially when you’re dealing with sunspots, early signs of melasma, or hormonal pigmentation. It’s a non-ablative fractional laser, meaning it creates microscopic channels in the skin without damaging the top layer.

The result is a gentler, minimal downtime treatment that helps fade pigmentation, improve skin tone, and encourage a radiant, even complexion over time. Best of all, it’s safe for all skin types.

Who it’s best for: Mild to moderate pigmentation, melasma, sun damage, dull skin
Recovery time: Redness that resolves within 24-48 hours; sandpaper-like skin texture noticeable to the touch for up to 3-5 days.
Results: Progressive brightening and skin clarity with a series of treatments

Reminder: Even after gentler treatments like LaseMD, avoiding sun exposure and committing to daily SPF is essential for optimal results and skin health.

Microneedling with SkinPen: Target Pigment and Texture

Microneedling is a proven treatment for stimulating collagen—but when paired with targeted brightening serums, it can also help fade pigmentation. At Soul, we use SkinPen, a professional-grade microneedling device that creates thousands of micro-channels in the skin to promote healing, cellular turnover, and serum absorption.

This controlled injury response not only smooths skin texture but also reduces discoloration by boosting skin renewal. While it may take a few sessions, microneedling offers a natural way to lighten pigment over time.

Who it’s best for: Mild pigmentation, acne scars, uneven skin texture
Recovery time: 24–48 hours of redness, mild sensitivity, and tightness
Results: Gradual improvement in skin tone and texture, especially with a treatment plan

Sun care tip: Always avoid sun exposure immediately following microneedling. The skin is more vulnerable during recovery and needs SPF protection every day.

Topical Skincare for Ongoing Maintenance

Treatments are powerful, but home care is where the real maintenance happens. At Soul, we recommend medical-grade skincare products from brands we trust—SkinMedica, Revision, and Biojuve. Brightening ingredients like niacinamide, tranexamic acid, vitamin C, and retinol can help maintain results and prevent new pigment from forming.

Sun protection is non-negotiable. Daily SPF is crucial for anyone struggling with hyperpigmentation. Even indirect sunlight or blue light from screens can trigger melanin production, especially post-treatment.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

Before you treat hyperpigmentation, it’s helpful to understand where it comes from. Common causes include:

• Sun exposure: UV rays trigger melanin, which leads to dark patches
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, birth control, or menopause can trigger melasma
• Acne or injury: Post-inflammatory pigmentation from breakouts or skin trauma
• Aging: Slower cell turnover leads to uneven pigment buildup over time

A consultation with our team can help identify the root cause of your hyperpigmentation and recommend the right course of action.

Which Hyperpigmentation Treatment Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation. Your skin tone, pigment depth, sensitivity, and treatment goals will all play a role in deciding the right path forward. That’s why we always start with a personalized consultation at Soul Aesthetics.

Whether you need a series of VI Peels, a custom CO2 treatment, or a gentle laser session with Ultra LaseMD, we’ll tailor your plan to fit your lifestyle, budget, and long-term skincare goals. We also offer memberships, package pricing, and financing options to make treatment more accessible.

Hyperpigmentation can be tough—but with the right strategy, it’s totally treatable. Book your consultation with Soul Aesthetics today and take the first step toward brighter, more even skin that radiates confidence.

Author: Kelle C.