Clear, bright skin

Pigmentation Skin Care

Brighten your complexion while minimising the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots with ESK’s pigmentation skincare range. Our curated pigmentation skincare products and kits delivers pigmentation skincare combining the strongest evidence-based ingredients and visibly brighten your skin over time.

Download Pigmentation eBook here.

See bottom of the page for more information on pigmentation. 

*While 4-n- Butylresorcinol has been found in studies to have very low systemic absorption, so is usually presumed to be pregnancy-safe, it has not been specifically trialled in pregnant women.

** Please check with your clinician before using any skincare products in pregnancy.

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Showing 14 products
Enlighten Gold NEW PRODUCT

Enlighten Gold

$115
$57.50
Golden Pigmentation Duo New Product
$240
Hero Kit Save 10% with Kits

Hero Kit

$309 $343
$154 $171
Pigmentation Kit Save 10% with Kits

Pigmentation Kit

$510 $573
$254 $287
Ultimate A Gold

Ultimate A Gold

$125 $150
$62.50
C Forte

C Forte

$103
$51.50
C Serum Lite

C Serum Lite

$97
$48.50
Enlighten Bestseller

Enlighten

$103
$51.50
Zinc Shade

Zinc Shade

$75
$37.50
Gentle Glow PHA Serum

Gentle Glow PHA Serum

$103
$51.50
ESK Smooth Serum exfoliating serum bottle for smoother, brighter-looking skin with glycolic acid, lactic acid and gluconolactone for gentle overnight skin resurfacing.

Smooth Serum

$103
$51.50
Ultimate A

Ultimate A

$115
$57.50
Ultimate A+

Ultimate A+

$125
$62.50
Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit Save 10% with Kits

Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit

$601 $668
$343 $382

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our skincare collections, including what's included, who they're for, and how to choose the right one.

Retinal and other Vitamin A derivatives are not recommended during pregnancy. However all other ESK products , particularly Enlighten and Enlighten Gold can be used. ESK has a dedicated Pregnancy Kit with formulations that exclude Vitamin A. Alternately, ESK's skin quiz can suggest a tailored (pregnancy safe) regimen. If you're experiencing melasma during pregnancy, daily broad-spectrum SPF is one of the most important thing you can do. Zinc-based sunscreen is considered best for for preventing pigmentation in pregnancy because it's well tolerated and not absorbed into the skin. A fuller active routine can be introduced postpartum when Vitamin A is back on the table.

Most people notice visible improvement within 8–12 weeks of consistent use, though some pigmentation (particularly deeper dermal pigmentation like melasma) takes longer. Pigmentation also often looks darker before it looks lighter, which is normal skin biology, not a sign that treatment is failing. Daily SPF is the variable most people underestimate: if UV exposure continues, new melanin is constantly being triggered, which actively works against what your actives are doing.

Yes, ESK formulates with tolerability in mind. Products like Enlighten Gold combine 4nB with PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) and niacinamide which are well-suited to reactive or sensitive skin. If you're new to actives, start with a lower-strength Vitamin A and build up gradually. You can also take the ESK Skin Quiz to get a personalised routine matched to your skin type.

Pigmentation forms when melanocytes - the cells that give skin its colour - overproduce melanin. The main triggers:

UV exposure (the biggest driver)
Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or the contraceptive pill
Inflammation from acne, rashes or aggressive skin treatments
Genetics, which influence how prone your skin is

The system isn't broken, it's just overactive, and that's very treatable with the right approach.

4NB is a tyrosinase inhibitor, meaning it targets the enzyme responsible for the first steps in melanin production. Human clinical trials have shown it to be more effective at tyrosinase inhibition than Hydroquinone, Arbutin and Kojic Acid, with consistently low irritation, high tolerance and a strong safety profile across repeated studies. Hydroquinone has long been considered the gold standard for pigmentation but carries concerns around irritation and safety. 4NB delivers excellent performance without that baggage. ESK uses it as the hero ingredient in both Enlighten and Enlighten Gold because the evidence supports it, full stop.

These are three distinct conditions that look similar but behave differently. Melasma is hormonally driven, typically appearing symmetrically across the cheeks, upper lip and forehead, and is notoriously stubborn because UV exposure constantly restimulates it. Sunspots (solar lentigines) are caused by cumulative UV damage and tend to be discrete, flat and darker than surrounding skin. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the discolouration left behind after acne, eczema or any inflammatory injury, and tends to resolve faster in people with lighter skin tones. Getting the diagnosis right helps get the best treatment.

The evidence sits behind a specific shortlist. 4-N-Butylresorcinol (4NB) inhibits both tyrosinase and DOPA oxidase, making it a dual-action melanin disruptor. Clinical data shows it outperforms kojic acid and is better tolerated than hydroquinone at equivalent concentrations. The basis of all hyperpigmentation regimens should be a tyrosinase inhibitor. In order to get still better results and get them more quickly, the following other ingredients have good evidence. L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) is a proven tyrosinase inhibitor and antioxidant that also reduces oxidative stress-driven melanogenesis. Retinal (Vitamin A) accelerates cell turnover to shift existing pigment out of the skin faster. Alpha and Poly Hydroxy Acids (AHAs and PHAs) support that process at the surface. And daily broad-spectrum SPF is not optional: without it, every other active is working against an open tap. Finally, Niacinamide works differently by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes rather than blocking tyrosinase, which makes it a genuinely useful addition to a regimen rather than just a supporting player.

Customer reviews

Before
After

Alida H

Hydroxy Cleanser, C Forte, Enlighten Gold, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Hydraboost HA Serum, Ultimate A Gold

"So i’ve been using ESK for about 6 weeks now and i’m super happy with the results. Photo (no filter on either) on the left is before incase it’s not obvious. I have the pigmentation kit and it has made my skin feel amazing. I think there’s a difference in appearance as well. I love the ritual of putting on the different steps morning and night and I will continue using the kit now as it’s part of my daily ritual."

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After

Anna D

Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit*, Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit*, Calming Cleanse, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A

"Here are my before and after photos taken 5 weeks apart. I am really enjoying my ESK skincare. My biggest concern was my uneven skin tone due to sun damage. I think after using these products for such a short time the difference is remarkable. My skin feels hydrated and plump and the tone is much more even. I highly recommend these products as they are very easy to use with the am and pm marked on the bottles. They really do work."

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After

Anne-Marie S

Pigmented Mature Dry Kit, Calming Cleanse, C Forte, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Gentle Glow PHA Serum, Ultimate A

"Have really noticed a difference in my rosacea in the short time I have been using the ESK products in the rosacea kit. The bottles are numbered which makes them a breeze to use and the products themselves feel amazing on my skin. Will continue to use these products (and add a few more!) as am sure I will continue to see results the longer I continue to use them."

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After

Antoinette G

Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit*, Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit*, Calming Cleanse, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A

"Can you turn back the years? Perhaps not but it appears that you can minimise the damage that many of them caused. I have the Mature Pigmented Kit and I love it. These two photos were taken at the same time in the morning bot with no products on and a month apart. I think that my skin looks brighter, smoother, healthier and thankfully younger."

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After

Bronwyn S

Pigmented Rosacea Kit, Calming Cleanse, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Gentle Glow PHA Serum, Ultimate A

"I started using ESK hoping it would help reduce the redness on my cheeks. My other area of concern was the crepey skin on my neck. I have been using the rosacea kit for a month now and really love the products. The texture of my skin feels amazing and I think the redness has reduced.... hopefully more in the coming months! I think my neck has seen the biggest improvement. I think Enlighten is my favourite product, but I love using them all. I love the simplicity of the routine and how beautiful my skin feels after using it. Thank you"

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Camille Z

C Serum Lite, Enlighten Gold, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A Gold, Hydroxy Overnight Mask

"My skin concerns were acne and pigmentation. Since using ESK, I have seen an incredible difference in my skin and can't be happier. I have recommended ESK to all my friends and family and tell them that they will be very impressed with the products and customer service."

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After

Carol S

Enlighten Gold

"Participated in a 2025, 12 week UK clinic trial. (No testimonial but pictures speak for themselves)"

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After

Carolyn R

Regular Pigmented Kit, Hydroxy Cleanser, C Forte, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A

"Very pleased. Dear husband remarked a positive effect on crows feet at Christmas. I can really see the change on my aging/ sunspot. Also between my eyebrows... I've been impressed with the results of using ESK for 3+ months. There is noticeably less splotches to my skin (across cheeks/under eyes) and also the pigmentation at my right eye is much lighter."

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After

Caryl A

Enlighten

"Overall, I am very happy to have discovered this brand and being given an opportunity to try some of their products, which I can honestly say have changed the way I view skincare. You definitely do not need a 10 step routine to get great results. Using 3-4 products work just as well and I am pleased to recommend this to any beauty seeking new skincare!"

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After

Cathie W

Pigmentation Kit, Calming Cleanse, C Forte, Enlighten Gold, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A Gold

"I was searching for an Australian product that could assist me in my ageing skin and came across E.S.K. I was really impressed with the quality of their products and the customer service was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. After starting the pigmentation product line several weeks ago, my skin is feeling more hydrated and I am looking forward to seeing further results with my pigmentation and texture over the coming months."

Before
After

Cathryn V

Menopause / Perimenopause Kit, Calming Cleanse, C Forte, Repair +, Zinc Shade, Gentle Glow PHA Serum, Ultimate A Gold, Enlighten

"I've had significant freckles since I was a kid (and yes, my parents were strict on
sunscreen use!) and as I have aged they have darkened and 'age spots' have appeared.
I was keen to try the ESK products and see if they would soften the pigmentation. I
noticed a reduction in pigmentation after using the ESK Enlighten Gold (with daily
sunscreen) for approx 6 months and this has been improved by adding the Ultimate Gold
in the evening.

I didn't expect fast results based on my history and from explanations in the articles on
pigmentation written by Dr Ginni.

I'm very happy with the results so far, I love the products and also learning of the science
behind them.

Congratulations on a fabulous science backed Australian-made product!"

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After

Cathy S

Calming Cleanse, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A, Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit*, Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit*, Pigmented Rosacea Kit

"I was very sceptical about this skin care range can it do what it claims to, it most certainly can I have noticed a big change to my skin it is alot clearer feel of redness and my pigmentation has improved ALOT! So if in doubt try it you will be very happy with the results and so little is needed so will last a long time alot more than other products on the market😊😊 plus not much makeup will be needed to cover skin as it glows"

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After

Claire C

Enlighten Gold

"Participated in a 2025, 12 week UK clinic trial. (No testimonial but pictures speak for themselves)"

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After

Danielle D

Pigmentation Kit*, Hydroxy Cleanser, C Forte, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Enlighten, Ultimate A

"It is still a work in progress but I am so relieved to finally see results. I never had any pigmentation issues until about two years ago. I have tried so many different products and treatments which has just made my pigmentation worse. I cannot be happier as ESK has given back my confidence and I am able to face the world again without makeup!"

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After

Dee-Anna R

Ultimate A Gold

"This product has been amazing! I thought I’d try the new Ultimate A gold. My skin is finally back to normal after suffering dryness and break outs. It’s taken a few months but I couldn’t be happier."

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After

Eb C

Enlighten, Ultimate A+, Hydroxy Cleanser

"Honestly it's truly amazing! I will shout it from the roof tops!"

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After

Elissa M

Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit*, Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit*, Calming Cleanse, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A

"I have been using the range for around 5 weeks now and I really love the products. I have the range for Mature pigmented skin and the difference the products have made is noticeable for me. I had quite a lot of redness and lots of pigmentation. I always felt embarrassed not wearing a full coverage foundation. I also had skin that felt and looked tired with some dry patches. I noticed a difference in how my skin felt in the first week. By week 2 I was starting to see a softening of the pigmentation. 5 weeks in and I can really see the improvement. Simple regime, great products, practical packaging and excellent service."

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After

Elizabeth J

Pigmentation Kit*, Calming Cleanse, C Forte, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A

"Have been using the Pigmentation Kit for 4 weeks now and have noticed an improvement in my overall skin tone, my hyperpigmentation has lightened a little (in the smaller spots) and I feel that I can go out without makeup on (maybe some blush and mascara). Very happy that the kit didn't react with my skin as I have sensitive skin. My skin feels more supple and smooth too. I cannot wait to see what another month or two brings with the kit!"

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After

Emily G

Mature Lighten & Tighten Kit*, Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit*, Calming Cleanse, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Ultimate A

"I have been using the ESK range recommended for eczema for one month and can already see pigmentation lightening and a softening of fine lines of my face. I had been using a very basic skin care regime so I had some concerns about using ESK initially given there were 5 different products (including a cleanser), but the products are very easy to use, the numbering on some of the products assists with this. They also smell great and feel wonderful on my skin, even the all important Zinc Shade."

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After

Emma N

Pigmentation Kit*, Calming Cleanse, C Forte, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A

"I can’t believe how much my pigmentation has settled down after 1 month. Also breakouts have disappeared. I’m so impressed. The products are divine! Thank you!!"

How to improve pigmentation

Pigmentation spots can make your skin look more aged. But before you look for pigmentation skincare online, you need to understand why it happens in the first place. 

Pigment is made by specialized skin cells called melanocytes. The number of melanocytes in your skin actually decreases by 8% to 20% per decade after age 30! And yet areas of mottled, irregular pigmentation are common in sun damaged skin in all races. Like patches of melasma that are common in women, especially when exposed to higher levels of oestrogen, the exact cause is still unknown! When it comes to tackling pigmentation, you need to be patient! 

There are 4 pathways that we target to improve pigmentation. The first is antioxidants such as Ascorbic acid AKA Vitamin C, which neutralises the signal created by UV exposure, to create melanin. Secondly, Niacinamide AKA Vitamin B3 helps stop the transfer of melanin to the superficial skin cells from the melanocytes in the deeper levels. Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHAs not only help with skin cell turnover and breaking up melanin clumps but also directly suppress melanin formation in the skin. Retinal AKA Vitamin A blocks the enzyme tyrosinase, the enzyme in the skin which is critical for the creation of melanin in the first place. It also encourages skin cell turnover and, breaking up melanin clumps. And finally, tyrosinase can be targeted directly. Hydroquinone can be prescribed by your doctor but 4-n-butylresorcinol is more gentle, can safely be used long term, is available in your skincare and it is at least as (if not more) effective to shut down melanin production altogether. 

Shop our specially formulated pigmentation skincare products and kits online here. Australian customers can enjoy free express shipping and a money back guarantee!


What is the best product for skin pigmentation?

There are several paths (most people agree that number is 4) that can be targeted for reducing hyperpigmentation. And while best results come from using a combination of ingredients which target 3 or 4 paths, the single most effective path is inhibition of tyrosinase (a key enzyme required for making pigment in the skin). And the ingredient which does that best is Hydroquinone. But due to concerns around risks of long term use (more than 3 months) and skin irritation, it is increasingly being banned from use. The search for a replacement is still ongoing. The current contender for that role is 4-n-butylresorcinol, which is not only very effective, but also well tolerated. The other paths that can be targeted are through anti-oxidants (Vitamin C - Ascorbic Acid), reduction in the transfer of pigment in the skin (Vitamin B3 - Niacinamide) and increased skin cell turnover to flush pigment from the skin (Vitamin A - Retinal). And because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, use of a broadspectrum sunscreen should be top of the list of products.