Despite a lifelong devotion to taking care of my skin, I still struggle with a range of skin issues. Between genetics and sun damage, I’ve fought a decades-long battle against hyperpigmentation – the appearance of dark spots or blotches on the skin – but nothing could have prepared me for how noticeable it would get during pregnancy. Hormones sent my skin into overdrive, and I got a classic case of “pregnancy mask,” also known as melasma – a darkening or discoloration of skin that can affect 50 to 75% of expectant parents, according to What To Expect.
I’ve spent the last year doing everything I can to correct the patchy, dark skin under my eyes and along my cheeks, consulting dermatologists and aestheticians, conducting in-depth personal research and testing various products. Much to my delight, surprise and relief, my skin has radically improved in the 12 months since I gave birth.
Below, I’ve rounded up the products that actually worked to reduce my hyperpigmentation and melasma. These items come at a range of price points, but you’ll likely notice that most of them are on the expensive side. It’s definitely been an investment to get my skin back, but one I’ve found to be well worth it.
