There's not much about spending time in the summer sun that's more of a pain in the behind than dealing with hyperpigmentation [1]. Hyperpigmentation is what occurs when there's an overproduction of melanin in the skin that's often linked to acne and blemishes, although according to dermatologist Shari Sperling, DO [2], it can manifest in a few different ways.

"After trauma to the skin when it's healing or as skin rashes like eczema or contact dermatitis heals, there's hyperpigmentation of the skin before it goes back to its regular colour," she told POPSUGAR. "Melasma is another type of pigmentation related to hormones. Commonly found on upper lip or cheeks or forehead on women during and after pregnancy, with oral contraception use or even with menopause."

That being said, sun exposure is also a common cause of hyperpigmentation, which is why we're more prone to experiencing it in the summertime. Sunlight can trigger the production of melanin in the skin, since melanin acts as a shield from UV rays. If you already deal with dark marks or discoloration, being in the sun will only darken them. "If you are exposed to sun, the darker skin will just get darker in the sun, and take longer to get back to normal skin colour," Dr. Sperling said.

Because of this, the most important step to take in preventing hyperpigmentation is regularly applying sunscreen [3]. "You should use an SPF that's 30 or higher," Dr. Sperling said. "I like the physical sunscreens with zinc or titanium. Rx or over-the-counter products containing hydroquinone can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation."

Read ahead to check out some of our favourite products for treating and preventing hyperpigmentation.

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defence

While the SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defence [4] ($98) is a bit on the pricier side, its hydroquinone-free formula of brightening kojic and tranexamic acids, plus hydrating niacinamide [5], makes it worth every penny.

Kiehl's Since 1851 Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

The Kiehl's Since 1851 Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution [6] ($54) uses "activated C" — a derivative of vitamin C — to help even out the skin tone and brighten dark spots.

Coola Classic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 White Tea

The Coola Classic Face Sunscreen SPF 50 White Tea [7] ($32) is strong enough to hold up during any long day spent in the sun, but still lightweight enough so that your skin won't feel too sticky or greasy after application.

Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum

Hyperpigmentation and dark spots are no match for the Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum [8] ($72). The product's formula features standout ingredients like hydroquinone and glycolic acid to help reduce discoloration and exfoliate the skin.

Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defence Sunscreen SPF 30

The "invisible" in the Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defence Sunscreen SPF 30 [9] ($54) isn't an exaggeration. The green tea-infused moisturiser applies smoothly and gets its job done without leaving a white cast.

Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Vitamin C Power Serum

In case you were wondering why the Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Vitamin C Power Serum [10] ($98) is worth the buy, it's because it contains 20 percent THD ascorbate — a form of vitamin C that can be up to 50 times more powerful than its counterpart — to help visibly brighten dark spots and even out the skin.