Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Treatment for Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots - Oily Skin

This routine is designed to fade dark spots (post-acne marks, sun spots, uneven tone) while keeping oily skin clear, balanced, and less shiny. The strategy is simple: use a gentle pore-clearing cleanse, a brightening toner that supports tone without heaviness, a targeted dark-spot serum (TXA + niacinamide), a lightweight gel-cream to keep the barrier calm, and a matte-leaning sunscreen to stop pigmentation from coming back.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 7-14 days: skin looks fresher, less dull; oil feels more balanced (especially mid-day shine).
• 3-6 weeks: newer dark spots and post-acne marks start fading; overall tone looks more even.
• 8-12 weeks: stubborn spots soften noticeably (this depends heavily on daily sunscreen use and reapplication).

The 5 Products Routine

1. Cleanser: [Anua] Heartleaf Succinic Moisture Cleansing Foam 150ml

   Why it belongs in an oily + dark spot routine: Oily skin often holds onto pigment longer when pores stay congested and inflammation keeps flaring. This cleanser is built for that reality - it helps regulate sebum and decongest pores while staying pH-balanced, so you get “clean” without getting stripped.

   Key benefits for your goals:

   • Helps unclog pores and manage excess oil (great when pigmentation is post-breakout related).
   • Supports smoother texture, so brightening products absorb and perform better.
   • Barrier-friendly cleansing (important because irritated skin can worsen hyperpigmentation).

2. Toner: [Anua] Peach 77 Niacin Essence Toner 250ml

   Why it belongs: A brightening toner that still behaves well on oily skin. It supports glow and tone without needing heavy layers, and it helps refine the look of roughness that makes spots look more obvious.

   Key benefits for your goals:

   • Brightening support (niacinamide + alpha-arbutin + vitamin C derivatives) for uneven tone.
   • Helps remove dull, dead surface buildup for a clearer, more refined look.
   • Adds lightweight hydration so skin does not overcompensate by producing more oil.

   Note for oily skin: Use 1 layer daily. If you are sensitive to fragranced products, patch test first.

3. Treatment Serum: [Anua] Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Correcting Serum 30ml

   Why it belongs: This is the main “dark spot corrector” in the routine. It targets discoloration directly while staying lightweight, which is exactly what oily skin needs (effective actives, no greasy payoff).

   Key benefits for your goals:

   • Targets stubborn dark spots and hyperpigmentation (TXA + niacinamide synergy).
   • Helps improve the look of post-acne marks and uneven tone.
   • Watery, non-sticky feel - layers easily under gel moisturizers and sunscreen.

   Pro tip: If you are new to strong brightening actives, start once daily for 5-7 days, then move to AM + PM if comfortable.

4. Moisturizer: [Dr.G] Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream 70ml

   Why it belongs: Oily skin still needs a moisturizer, especially when you are treating pigmentation. A lightweight gel-cream keeps the barrier steady, reduces irritation risk, and makes brightening results more consistent.

   Key benefits for your goals:

   • Quick-absorbing gel texture that hydrates without feeling sticky or heavy.
   • Soothing support helps reduce the “inflammation cycle” that can deepen marks.
   • Barrier support helps you tolerate brightening serum use more consistently.

5. Sunscreen (AM only): [CellFusionC] Advanced Clear Sunscreen 100 SPF50+/PA++++ 50ml

   Why it belongs: Hyperpigmentation cannot improve if UV exposure keeps triggering melanin. This sunscreen is a strong fit for oily skin because it aims for a matte-leaning finish and sebum control, which makes daily wear more comfortable (and therefore more consistent).

   Key benefits for your goals:

   • High UV protection to prevent dark spots from worsening and returning.
   • Refreshing matte finish and sebum-friendly wear for oily skin.
   • Designed with low pore-clogging risk in mind for troubled/oily skin types.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Wash with the Anua cleanser for 30-45 seconds, focusing on the T-zone. Rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Toner: Apply 1 layer of the Anua Peach toner using palms (or a cotton pad). Pat in until absorbed.
3. Serum: Apply 2-3 drops of the Anua Niacinamide + TXA serum over the face, then add 1 extra drop on darker spots.
4. Moisturizer: Use a thin layer of Dr.G Soothing Cream. Keep it light, especially on the T-zone.
5. Sunscreen: Apply CellFusionC sunscreen generously to face and neck. Reapply every 2-3 hours if outdoors or in strong daylight near windows.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse thoroughly with the Anua cleanser. If you wore heavy sunscreen/makeup, cleanse a little longer (still gently).
2. Toner: Apply 1 layer of the Anua Peach toner. If skin feels tight, you can do 2 light layers (not soaked).
3. Serum: Apply the Anua Niacinamide + TXA serum across the face.
4. Moisturizer: Seal with Dr.G Soothing Cream (thin layer).
5. Targeted spot layering: Add a second very thin layer of the Anua serum only on the darkest spots, then tap a tiny bit of Dr.G cream over those areas to lock it in.