Shéeba London

Struggling with hyperpigmentation and sensitive skin? For many women, the quest to fade dark spots, acne marks or melasma often ends in more irritation, dryness, and a damaged barrier. But here’s the good news: there is a gentle way. One that supports your skin instead of overwhelming it. Understanding Hyperpigmentation & the Skin Barrier Hyperpigmentation is your skin's way of reacting to inflammation, sun exposure, or hormonal changes. It might show up as post-acne marks, sun spots, or melasma. While it’s completely normal, many women feel self-conscious or frustrated when their skin tone feels uneven. Too many routines focus on harsh actives and acids, leading to redness, dryness, or peeling—especially for those with sensitive skin. That’s where your skin barrier comes in. This invisible layer is your skin’s protective shield. When it’s strong, your skin stays hydrated, calm, and resilient. When it’s compromised? Everything feels off. Fading hyperpigmentation is not just about exfoliating. It’s about supporting your skin to do what it already knows how to do: repair, renew, and glow. Is Your Skin Barrier Damaged? If you’ve been layering products or chasing glow with too many exfoliants, your barrier might be sending out an SOS. Signs include: Constant dryness or flaking Redness or inflammation Stinging or burning when applying products Breakouts in areas you don’t normally break out A feeling of tightness or discomfort, even after moisturising The first step to clearer skin is calming everything down. What Actually Works to Fade Hyperpigmentation (Gently) Let’s skip the gimmicks and get to what actually works without damaging your skin: 1. Liquorice Root A natural brightener that reduces melanin production and calms inflammation—ideal for melasma or post-acne marks. 2. Centella Asiatica Also known as "cica," this plant extract helps repair the skin barrier, soothe sensitivity, and promote healing. 3. Retinol (in low, balanced doses) Stimulates cell turnover and supports even tone—when paired with hydrating ingredients, it can work wonders even for sensitive skin. 4. Pineapple Enzymes A gentle way to exfoliate without damaging the skin. These enzymes lift away dullness and dead skin cells with zero scrubbing. 5. Rosehip Oil & Vitamin B5 Rich in vitamins A and C, rosehip supports regeneration while B5 locks in moisture and soothes irritation. 6. Niacinamide Boosts brightness, reduces redness, and supports barrier function. A favourite for multitasking without irritation. These ingredients aren’t aggressive. They’re supportive. They give your skin the tools it needs to heal in its own time. A Gentle Routine That Supports Healing and Fading Here’s a skincare routine designed to fade hyperpigmentation while protecting your barrier. It’s simple, minimal, and deeply nourishing. Morning Routine Cleanse with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that includes niacinamide to brighten and prebiotics to support your microbiome. Hydrate with a serum containing hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to plump and soothe. Moisturise, if needed, with a fragrance-free barrier cream or light oil. Protect with SPF 30 or higher. Every single day. No exceptions. Evening Routine Cleanse again with the same gentle cleanser. Exfoliate with a fruit enzyme mask 2–3 times a week. Avoid scrubs or anything grainy. Apply serum (hydrating or calming). Moisturise with retinol 2–3 nights a week, increasing slowly if tolerated. Look for retinol combined with oats, oils or AHAs in low percentages. Barrier-Safe Lifestyle Tips for Faster Results Skincare is only one part of the healing equation. These gentle lifestyle shifts can support your skin’s recovery too: Use lukewarm (not hot) water to cleanse your face Pat dry with a soft cloth—never rub Sleep on a clean, soft pillowcase Drink enough water (hydration supports elasticity) Eat more anti-inflammatory foods: berries, avocado, olive oil, salmon Reduce sugar and processed foods, which can aggravate skin issues What Results to Expect (and When) It’s tempting to want instant results. But the best results are the ones that last. With this kind of routine, you can expect: Week 1–2: Less stinging or tightness, skin feels calmer Week 3–6: Subtle brightening, improved texture, reduction in new breakouts Week 6–12: More even skin tone, fading of older marks, a stronger barrier that feels more resilient Progress will be different for everyone. But slow, steady and supported is always better than harsh and fast. Mistakes to Avoid When Treating Hyperpigmentation (Especially If You’re Sensitive) Over-exfoliating: More isn’t better. It just damages your barrier. Using multiple actives at once: Stick to one or two at a time. Skipping SPF: The sun undoes everything. Don’t give it the chance. Switching products too often: Your skin needs consistency to adapt and respond. Using fragrance or essential oils: These are major irritants, even if they seem gentle. Ignoring hydration: Even oily or acne-prone skin needs moisture to function well. FAQs Can you fade hyperpigmentation without exfoliating?Yes, but gentle exfoliation speeds things up. Enzyme exfoliants are ideal for sensitive skin. What’s the best serum for fading hyperpigmentation on sensitive skin?Look for ones with hyaluronic acid, liquorice root, vitamin B5, and low-dose retinol. How long does it take to see results?6–12 weeks with consistent use of barrier-safe, brightening ingredients. Can retinol irritate sensitive skin?Yes—but not if it’s buffered with calming oils or paired with moisturising ingredients. How do I know if my skin barrier is damaged?If your skin feels tight, stings easily, or reacts to products it used to tolerate, your barrier may need repair. Is niacinamide good for fading hyperpigmentation?Absolutely. It helps reduce uneven tone, strengthen the barrier, and calm redness—all without irritation. Final Thoughts: Kindness Over Quick Fixes Hyperpigmentation is emotional. We know. But no amount of scrubbing or harsh acids will give you the skin you want if your barrier is damaged. Start with calm. Start with care. Your skin will thank you. If you’re not sure where to begin, look for routines and ingredients that feel calming from the first step. Because glow comes when your skin feels safe enough to heal. You deserve skincare that works with your skin—not against it.

Struggling with post-acne marks, melasma, or uneven skin tone? You’re not alone. This guide explores how gentle fruit enzymes and natural actives can help fade acne scars, melasma, and dark spots - without damaging your skin barrier. Why Acne Scars and Melasma Happen (and What You Can Do About It) Acne scars and melasma are both forms of hyperpigmentation. Acne scars often appear after inflammation from breakouts—especially if you’ve picked at spots or dealt with cystic acne. Melasma, on the other hand, tends to be hormone-related and can appear during pregnancy, from taking birth control, or after sun exposure. Both can be difficult to treat, especially if your skin reacts easily to acids or scrubs. But that doesn’t mean you need to resort to harsh treatments. With the right natural approach—one that gently supports cell turnover while calming inflammation—visible change is possible. Why Fruit Enzymes Are a Gentle Yet Powerful Option Fruit enzymes are a natural form of exfoliation derived from ingredients like pineapple, mango, and papaya. Unlike acid-based exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs), fruit enzymes work more slowly and gently—making them ideal for inflamed or sensitive skin that’s healing from breakouts or prone to melasma. They break down the keratin protein in dead skin cells, allowing them to slough off without irritation. Over time, this reveals fresher skin underneath—softening the appearance of dark marks, evening tone, and boosting brightness. Benefits of fruit enzymes for scarring and pigmentation: Fade discolouration and sun damage Brighten dull or uneven tone Smooth rough texture without abrasion Help clear out pores to prevent future breakouts Improve the absorption of other treatment products The Role of Natural Actives in Skin Recovery If you're trying to recover from pigmentation, your skin doesn’t just need exfoliation—it needs hydration, repair, and barrier support. That’s where natural actives come in. The following ingredients work together to treat pigmentation while also protecting sensitive or compromised skin: Liquorice Root: A natural brightener that helps reduce melanin production and soothe inflammation. Centella Asiatica: Stimulates collagen production and supports the healing of broken or inflamed skin. Hibiscus Extract: Gently exfoliates and is rich in antioxidants that help repair environmental damage. Rosehip Oil: Known to reduce hyperpigmentation and boost skin regeneration. Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): Deeply hydrating and helps lock in moisture, improving softness and elasticity. Retinol (in a balanced blend): Encourages skin cell renewal and helps fade post-acne pigmentation. The combination of these ingredients gives your skin a complete toolkit: exfoliation, hydration, calming, and restoration. A Gentle Routine That Targets Pigmentation Without Compromise If you’re currently managing dark marks, acne scars, or melasma, here’s a skin routine that works with your skin—not against it. Step 1: Cleanse (AM + PM) Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser—ideally one that includes niacinamide (to even tone) and prebiotics (to support your microbiome). Step 2: Exfoliate with Fruit Enzymes (2–3x per week) Apply a fruit enzyme mask enriched with pineapple, mango, liquorice, centella, and hibiscus. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes—no scrubbing needed. This step helps dissolve dead skin and fade pigmentation without irritation. Step 3: Hydrate and Soothe (Daily) Follow up with a serum containing hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to hydrate and reinforce the skin barrier—particularly important if your skin is prone to dryness, flakiness, or sensitivity. Step 4: Moisturise and Treat (Nightly) Use a nourishing moisturiser that includes low-dose retinol and fruit acids, combined with barrier-repairing oils like oats, jojoba, and rosehip. This will help gradually fade dark marks while keeping the skin calm and nourished. Step 5: Protect (Daily) Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. Sun exposure is one of the biggest triggers for pigmentation and melasma, and skipping sunscreen can undo all your hard work. What Results Can You Expect (and When)? With regular use of a fruit-enzyme based exfoliant and pigment-fading ingredients like retinol and liquorice root, you can typically expect: Week 1–2: Skin feels softer, more hydrated; subtle brightening begins Week 3–6: Texture becomes more refined, post-acne marks begin to fade Week 6–12: More even skin tone, pigmentation significantly reduced with continued SPF and routine use Everyone’s skin is different, and hormonal pigmentation like melasma may take longer to treat than post-acne marks. But gentle progress is still progress—and it’s the kind that lasts. The Skin Reset Set If you’re ready to get started but don’t want to overthink your routine, the Skin Reset Set is a curated bundle designed to: Exfoliate with fruit enzymes Hydrate deeply Support barrier repair What’s inside: Fruit Enzyme & Hibiscus Peel Mask: Gently exfoliates, brightens and improves skin tone over time. Glow Cleanser with Niacinamide & Prebiotics: Balances and preps the skin. Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & B5: Locks in moisture and strengthens the barrier. This simple routine is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive or post-breakout skin, and contains no essential oils or fragrance. FAQs Can I use fruit enzymes with retinol?Yes—especially when used on alternate nights or layered with calming ingredients. Avoid using both on the same day until your skin adjusts. What’s the difference between fruit enzymes and acids?Enzymes work more gently by dissolving dead skin cells rather than penetrating deeply. They’re ideal for skin that reacts easily to exfoliating acids. Is this routine suitable for melasma and hormonal pigmentation?Yes. It avoids known melasma triggers (like strong peels, scrubs, and fragrance) while using proven brighteners like liquorice root and retinol. What if I’ve tried everything before?Sometimes, the answer isn’t stronger products—it’s consistency with the right gentle actives. You don’t need to strip your skin to see results. Final Thoughts: Kind Skincare That Works Fading acne scars, post-inflammatory marks, or melasma doesn’t require harsh peels or complicated routines. You just need a thoughtful blend of exfoliation, hydration, and repair—delivered gently and consistently. Start small. Stay consistent. Let your skin rebuild at its own pace. Explore the Skin Reset Set →

Wondering if hyaluronic acid and retinol work well together? Learn how to layer these skincare favourites safely to achieve hydrated, radiant skin - even if you're sensitive. Confused About Hyaluronic Acid and Retinol? You're Not Alone Skincare can sometimes feel like a minefield - especially when you're dealing with ingredients like retinol (powerful but intimidating) and hyaluronic acid (hydrating but misunderstood). You’ve likely seen both in glowing reviews, social media routines, and dermatologists’ top picks. But here’s the real question: can they actually be used together? The short answer is yes. In fact, when used the right way, they make one of the best duos in skincare. If you’re aiming for smoother, clearer, glowier skin without compromising your skin barrier, here’s everything you need to know - plus a simple, natural routine you can start today. What Is Retinol? Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A, known for its ability to: Increase skin cell turnover Fade pigmentation and acne scars Smooth fine lines and wrinkles Help unclog pores and reduce breakouts It’s considered a gold-standard anti-ageing ingredient - but it can be intense. Especially if you have dry, sensitive or acne-prone skin. That’s why the formulation matters. A gentle, balanced retinol product (like the one in Sheeba London’s Collagen & Retinol Moisturiser) helps deliver visible results without the typical flaking or redness. What Is Hyaluronic Acid? Despite the name, hyaluronic acid isn’t an exfoliating acid. It’s actually a humectant - which means it draws water into the skin and holds onto it. Naturally found in our skin, hyaluronic acid helps: Boost hydration and elasticity Soften rough texture Calm inflammation and redness Plump the skin for a healthy glow It’s especially helpful if your skin feels dehydrated, tight or dull - and it’s safe for all skin types, including eczema-prone or reactive skin. Hydration is more than just a comfort step - it’s essential for healing, maintaining your barrier, and allowing active ingredients like retinol to work effectively. When your skin is well-hydrated, it’s less likely to react and more likely to glow. Hyaluronic Acid vs Retinol: What's the Difference? These two are often compared, but they actually serve completely different purposes. Here's how they stack up: Feature Retinol Hyaluronic Acid Function Speeds up skin renewal, exfoliates Attracts and retains moisture Skin Type Can be drying or irritating Safe for all skin types Benefits Brightens, fades pigmentation, smooths lines Hydrates, plumps, soothes Common Concern May cause dryness or peeling May not hydrate enough alone Works Well With Antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid Retinol, Vitamin C, Ceramides In short: Retinol helps renew. Hyaluronic Acid helps restore. Together, they bring balance to your skin. Can You Use Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid Together? Absolutely. In fact, dermatologists recommend it. When used together, hyaluronic acid helps reduce the dryness or irritation that sometimes comes with retinol. It acts as a cushion - giving your skin the hydration it needs while the retinol does its job. It’s a skincare pairing that works beautifully if layered correctly. How to Layer Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid (The Right Way) Here’s the ideal PM routine: Cleanse gently with a fragrance-free, pH-balanced cleanser (try Sheeba London’s Glow Cleanser with Niacinamide & Prebiotics) Apply hyaluronic acid serum to slightly damp skin (like our Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin B5) Wait 30 seconds, then apply your retinol moisturiser (Collagen & Retinol Moisturiser with AHA & Hyaluronic Acid is a multitasker) Follow with a moisturiser, if needed, to lock everything in Use SPF in the morning This layering helps maximise glow while minimising sensitivity. Morning vs Evening: When to Use What For best results, split your actives between morning and evening: Morning: Cleanser → Hyaluronic Acid → Antioxidant Serum or Moisturiser → SPF Evening: Cleanser → Hyaluronic Acid → Retinol Moisturiser → Barrier Cream or Oil (optional) This ensures your skin is supported around the clock and reduces the chance of product overload. Bonus Tip: Simplify With a Two-in-One Want to make things easier? Our Collagen & Retinol Moisturiser with AHA & Hyaluronic Acid already contains a skin-safe dose of retinol plus deeply hydrating ingredients like Oats, Rosehip Oil and Jojoba. You get gentle exfoliation, brightening and hydration—all in one nourishing step. It’s especially ideal for busy routines, sensitive skin, or skincare beginners. Ingredient Spotlight: Why These Extras Matter Oats: Soothes irritation and strengthens the skin barrier Rosehip Oil: Rich in Vitamin C and A, helps fade scars and dark spots Jojoba Oil: Mimics skin’s natural sebum, softens and calms Vitamin B5: Works with hyaluronic acid to hydrate and repair These natural ingredients don’t just complement retinol—they actively reduce the risk of side effects, making your routine more effective and more comfortable. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Retinol + Hyaluronic Acid Skipping moisturiser – HA pulls moisture from the nearest source. If there’s no moisturiser or dampness, it can dry your skin out further. Using too much retinol too fast – Start slow (2–3x per week) and build up. Mixing retinol with strong acids – Avoid layering retinol with AHA peels or scrubs on the same night. Using retinol in the morning – It can make skin more sun-sensitive. Always apply at night and use SPF during the day. Using fragranced products – Fragrance can increase irritation. Sheeba London’s entire range is fragrance-free and essential oil free. Can Sensitive Skin Use Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid Together? Yes—as long as you choose the right formulation and go gently. Start with a pea-sized amount of retinol, and always buffer with a moisturiser. Look for products designed for sensitive skin, like ours: pH-balanced (4.5–5.5) 97–98% natural No parabens, sulphates or essential oils Made with organic ingredients FAQs Can I use hyaluronic acid before or after retinol?Use it before retinol on damp skin to maximise hydration. Should I wait between applying hyaluronic acid and retinol?A short pause (30 seconds to 1 minute) is helpful, but no need to overthink it. What should I apply after retinol?A calming, non-fragranced moisturiser or facial oil. Look for barrier-loving ingredients like oats, jojoba or ceramides. Is retinol safe to use every night?Start with 2–3 nights per week. Once your skin adjusts, you can increase frequency. If using a gentle blend (like ours), nightly use may be possible sooner. Can I use Vitamin C with retinol?Yes, but not at the same time. Use Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night. Does hyaluronic acid help reduce irritation from retinol?Yes, that’s one of its best uses. It hydrates and protects your barrier so retinol can work more effectively without irritation. Final Thoughts: The Glow Isn’t in Choosing One—It’s in the Balance Retinol and hyaluronic acid don’t cancel each other out. They complement each other beautifully. Retinol does the work of renewing your skin, while hyaluronic acid keeps it soft, balanced and protected. At Sheeba London, we believe in routines that respect your skin’s rhythm. Just thoughtful, natural skincare that helps you glow with confidence.