12 Best Face Washes for Hyperpigmentation in 2022
Having acne is bad but you know what’s worse? It’s the scars and dark spots they leave behind. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as dark spots, can take months or even years to fade away on its own.
Now, even if you don’t get acne, you can still suffer from hyperpigmentation. Too much sun exposure, skin injuries, aging, and hormonal imbalance can also cause your skin to appear darker in some areas.
Honestly, these dark spots can take months or even years to resolve on their own. However, there are a number of products available on the market that can help you with your problem. And you can start by looking for the best face wash for hyperpigmentation.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best face washes that will help you get rid of hyperpigmentation. Read on to learn more!
Best Face Wash for Hyperpigmentation Reviewed
1. Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser
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Glycolic acid is a star ingredient when it comes to fighting hyperpigmentation — it increases cell turnover rate and reveals brighter-looking skin. And this face wash from Mario Badescu contains a boatload of glycolic acid.
The hardworking formula sheds off dead skin cells and zaps dark spots. It’s infused with the goodness of chamomile extracts that soothe your skin, so there won’t be any unwanted irritation. What’s more, it contains marshmallow and sage to give your skin the hydration and conditioning it needs.
Not only does it fight dark spots but it also prevents new acne from popping up. You don’t have to worry about the formation of new dark spots or patches.
AdvertisementsFor maximum benefits, massage this face wash onto your face for at least 50 seconds. That’s because glycolic acid need to go deep into your pores to work its magic. With continued use, you’ll have smooth, radiant, and even skin.
We liked that it works great for body as well. While it won’t be economical, you can use it to get rid of back acne or dark spots on your body.
Pros:
- Offers gentle exfoliation
- Prevents breakouts and evens skin tone
- Works on both face and body
Cons:
- Can leave your skin feeling a bit tight
- Contains fragrance and sulfates
2. La-Roche Posay Pigmentclar Cleanser
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Okay, so this face wash is specifically formulated for hyperpigmentation — it’s literally in the name. It contains lipo-hydroxy acid that exfoliates your skin, unclogs pores, and removes all the impurities.
The formula is so gentle that you can even use it on sensitive skin. It also contains glycerin that helps to keep your skin moisturized. Some other key ingredients include stearic acid, lauric acid, and myristic acid.
Stearic acid strengthens the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss. Lauric acid can be pretty effective against acne, thanks to its antibacterial properties. Myrisitic acid washes away dirt and oil. It also conditions your skin.
The best part? Not only does it target dark spots but it also reduces dullness, evens out the skin tone, and fights the signs of aging. Your skin will instantly brighten up post-application.
And even though it’s expensive, let us tell you that it doesn’t take a lot of product to get the job done. So, it’s gonna last you quite a while.
Pros:
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Hydrating formula
- Brightens your skin
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- Not cruelty-free
3. Derma E Daily Brightening Cleanser
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Did you know that antioxidants such as vitamin C brighten your skin and lighten the appearance of dark spots?
This face wash is formulated with skin brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, licorice root extracts, and niacinamide. All these ingredients work together to treat hyperpigmentation and even out your skin tone.
The formula also reduces redness and inflammation. What’s more, it even cuts down fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to the inclusion of Madonna Lily in the formula.
This cleanser is intensely hydrating as well, so you don’t have to worry about your skin feeling dry. And it’s clinically proven to enhance the skin radiance and glow.
Plus, it’s really good at getting rid of acne. So, if you suffer from acne, this face wash is going to be your new best friend.
Pros:
- pH-balanced formula
- Skin soothing ingredients
- Gentle on skin
Cons:
4. Claridad 12% Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Face Wash
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This exfoliating face wash from Claridad is another great choice for those with pigmented skin. It contains 12% glycolic acid to zap dead skin cells, clean pores, and fight acne.
The formula contains a boat-load of yucca extracts that fight sun spots, age spots, acne spots, and other forms of skin discoloration. It also soothes your skin and evens it out.
Since glycolic acid is the key ingredient here, you can expect improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Even better? If you have saggy skin, the formula is also known to tighten your skin.
As we all know, acne is often the result of clogged pores. But since this face wash is non-comedogenic, you can say goodbye to those acne breakouts for good. And it’s paraben-free and animal cruelty-free.
Word of warning: If you have sensitive skin, you should start off slowly. Make sure to do a patch test first. If irritation occurs, then this product might not be a good fit for you.
Pros:
- Strong formula to fight hyperpigmentation
- Provides anti-ageing benefits
- Deep exfoliation
Cons:
- May leave your skin feeling dry
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
5. InstaNatural Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser
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If you’ve got the gist of this list, then you know that you’re gonna see a lot of glycolic acid-based products. And it should come as no surprise. Glycolic acid is truly exceptional when it comes to treating hyperpigmentation.
You see, not only does GA exfoliate but it’s also said to suppress the production of melanin. And it’s usually the overproduction of melanin that causes dark spots in the first place. So, it makes perfect sense to have GA in products meant to treat hyperpigmentation.
Coming to the facial cleanser in question, it deeply cleanses your skin, clears the pores, reduces blackheads, and soothes irritation. Of course, it fades dark spots, brown patches, and acne scars as well.
The reason this formula is so effective is because of all the powerful ingredients it contains. In addition to glycolic acid, there’s cucumber extract, organic chamomile, green tea extract, etc. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties, so they calm your skin.
With regular application, your skin will become brighter and more even-toned. There’s no mineral oil or parabens in the formula, so it’s a safe bet for your skin.
Pros:
- Skin-calming ingredients
- Gentle exfoliation
Cons:
6. Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
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If you want that squeaky clean feel, then you have to try Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser. It only contains 2.5 percent glycolic acid, so it deeply cleanses your skin without being harsh on your skin.
The formula combines the power of kojic acid, olive oil, rosehip oil, and tea tree oil. These oils go deep into your skin and get rid of all the impurities while nourishing your skin from within.
This gentle cleanser reduces dark spots, age spots, acne scars, and other forms of hyperpigmentation. What’s even better, it also combats premature aging. So, if you’re worried about fine lines and wrinkles, this face wash is worth the shot.
Thanks to all those oils, the formula is moisturizing. So, even if you have dry skin, your skin will love it. And it’s the holy grail for those with acne-prone skin. It contains willow bark extract that has keratolytic properties, meaning it gently breaks down dead skin cells and brings fresher cells to the surface.
As a result, you get visibly brighter skin after the very first use.
Pros:
- Hydrating ingredients
- Brighter skin
Cons:
7. GOAT Milk Soap
Your skin needs to be clean and moisturized every day. The soap in question contains natural, simple, and organic ingredients such as goat milk, coconut butter, olive oil, shea butter, and other essential oils. All these ingredients are highly nourishing and moisturizing.
Goat milk soap is good for every type of skin and age — it naturally cleanses and hydrates your skin. Plus, natural goat milk is also known to reduce melanin production and minimize dark spots.
AHAs (Alpha-hydroxy acids) also help with the appearance of dark spots, thanks to their exfoliating properties. This removes dead skin cells and makes your skin much brighter and younger.
Pros:
- Natural ingredients
- Gentle formula
Cons:
- Can take a lot of time to work
8. TruSkin Vitamin C Facial Cleanser
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With over 2700 5-star ratings on Amazon, this cleanser from TruSkin means serious business. It uses vitamin C as its key ingredient. The formula contains chock full of antioxidants that work to repair damaged skin, fix blemishes, and reduce inflammation.
It breaks down buildup from the skin’s surface and strips away all the impurities without disrupting the pH balance. What’s more, it also refines the skin texture and tone. You can expect an evenly toned skin upon regular use.
Vitamin C is also thought to stimulate collagen production. That means this cleanser also has anti-aging properties. It also contains vitamin E that not only helps with dark spots and patches but also repairs UV damage.
Then there’s rosehip oil that increases the skin’s elasticity, meaning it will also help you preserve your youth for longer. What we really love about this product is that it lathers really well, so it will last you at least a few months.
Pros:
- Gentle on skin
- Reasonable price
- Improves skin texture
Cons:
- Not as effective as glycolic acid-based products
9. Neutrogena Bright Boost Resurfacing Cleanser
When it comes to skincare products, you can hardly go wrong with Neutrogena. This drugstore pick from Neutrogena is a perfect fit for those who want to fix hyperpigmentation on a budget.
It’s a skin brightening cleanser formulated with potent AHAs such as glycolic acid and mandelic acid. You can expect it to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots. It’s also an effective treatment for shrinking large pores.
The powerful dual-action exfoliation reduces dullness, brightens up your skin, and boosts the skin’s radiance. What’s more, it’s powered by resurfacing Neoglucosamine that increases cell turnover rate by 10 times. No wonder the brightening effect is instant.
That being said, you don’t want to use it more than twice a week especially if you have sensitive skin. As with all the products that contain AHAs, a patch test goes a long way. And you would also the sun because AHAs can increase sensitivity to the sun.
Pros
- Affordable
- Treat dark spots and shrinks pores
Cons:
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
10. Toulon Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser
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If you’re a sucker for natural skincare products, Toulon Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser is the right choice for you. It’s made with all-natural and organic ingredients that are safe for the skin.
The formula utilizes the power of alpha-hydroxy acids to put an end to acne breakouts and dead skin cells. It boasts a high concentration of panthenol to hydrate and smooth your skin.
You’ll also find some powerful antioxidants such as vitamin A and D in the formula. They fade dark spots, reduce scars, and also delay the onset of aging.
Since it’s all-natural, it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. However, a patch test is important if you have sensitive skin. We also appreciate that it doesn’t contain parabens, sulfates, or mineral oil. And it’s made in the USA.
Pros:
- All-natural formula
- Works for all skin types
Cons:
- Doesn’t give you that squeaky clean feel
11. SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
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Both AHAs and BHAs are effective when it comes to exfoliation and hyperpigmentation. But when they combine, that’s when you can expect amazing results. This exfoliating cleanser combines the power of alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate and smooth your skin.
The formula is proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots, sun spots, melasma, and other forms of hyperpigmentation. It contains hydrogenated jojoba oil that can treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, etc. Plus, it’s highly moisturizing, so your dry skin won’t be flaky.
It also minimizes the appearance of pores and improves the overall texture of your skin. Plus, there are ingredients like licorice root extract, sugarcane extract, and citric acid that not only lighten the dark spots but also nourish your skin.
It has a powerful formula, and even though it’s suitable for all skin types, you may wanna do a patch test if you have sensitive skin. Coming to its price, it doesn’t exactly come cheap. In fact, it’s really expensive. But believe us when we tell you that it’s worth the splurge.
Pros:
- Gentle exfoliator
- Makes your skin soft and smooth
Cons:
12. Revision Skincare Brightening Facial Wash
Loaded with exfoliating ingredients like glycolic acid and salicylic acid, this face wash sloughs off dead skin cells and reveals brighter-looking skin. The inclusion of vitamin C boosts radiance and give that brightening effect. Together, they help get rid of hyperpigmentation.
The list of skin-loving ingredients do not end here. It even has lily extracts, which conditions and moisturizes your skin. As a result, your skin remains hydrated and plump for longer.
The formula is suitable for normal, oily, and combination skin types. We particularly liked that it cleanses your skin without stripping it of moisture. The only downside to this product is that it’s not suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Moisturizing formula
- Doesn’t strip skin
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not for sensitive or dry skin
How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation?
Okay, so hyperpigmentation is usually harmless. It doesn’t pose any health risk. But everyone wants to look their best, right? That’s why it’s important that you do your best to avoid getting hyperpigmentation in the first place. Listed below are a few ways on how you can do it:
- Always Wear Sunscreen: Overexposure to the sun is one of the leading causes of hyperpigmentation. You already know that hyperpigmentation occurs whenever there’s an increase in the production of melanin. And you know what can trigger this increase? Sun exposure. So, it’s important that you wear sunscreen all year round. This can help prevent melasma and sunspots.
- Wear Hats: Wearing hats or clothes that can block the sunlight can also help in the prevention of hyperpigmentation.
- Medication: Certain medications can put melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) into overdrive. You can speak to your doctor about it and they may be able to suggest something else.
- Anti-Inflammatory Products: It’s established that inflammation can lead to hyperpigmentation. So, one of the best ways to avoid it would be to use anti-inflammatory skincare products. The face washes listed above have anti-inflammatory properties and you can start with them.
What to Look for in a Face Wash for Hyperpigmentation
Listed below are things you should look out for when shopping for the best face wash for hyperpigmentation:
Ingredients
Look for a face wash that has skin-lightening ingredients, such as vitamin C, kojic acid, niacinamide, azelaic acid, etc. These ingredients will help fade dark spots quickly. In addition, your face wash should also contain exfoliating ingredients, like glycolic acid and salicylic acid. That’s because exfoliation inhibits melanin production, sloughs of dark dead skin cells, and reveals brighter-looking skin.
Gentle formula
Some face washes contain harsh products that can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation, This can lead to acne breakouts, which is the last thing you want when tackling hyperpigmentation. Therefore, it’s important to choose gentle cleansers. Stay away from products that contain harsh ingredients, like alcohol and parabens.
Multiple actives
Look for face washes that have multiple active ingredients. A product that combines multiple skin-lightening ingredients and also has AHAs/BHAs may deliver the best results. That’s because each ingredient is working differently to help get rid of hyperpigmentation.
Conclusion
Having to deal with hyperpigmentation is not easy. Those dark spots or patches can really crush your self-confidence. But thankfully, something as simple as a face wash can help you in your quest to get rid of hyperpigmentation.
The face washes we’ve reviewed above are the best available options on the market. Not only will they help you with hyperpigmentation, but they’ll also make your skin healthier overall.
That being said, it’s important to eat healthily, get enough sleep, and drink plenty of water. In addition, invest in skin-lightening creams or serums. They may speed up the process even more.
Hopefully, you’ve found the right face wash for yourself by now. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments below.
