An Exclusive Investigation by Emily Ross, Senior Beauty Correspondent at Allure
October 8, 2025
PCOS Hyperpigmentation
PCOS Causes Hyperpigmentation in 8 out of 10 Women
Why women with PCOS struggle with dark patches and uneven skin tone and how Strawberry helps
THE SCIENCE BEHIND PCOS-RELATED SKIN DARKENING
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder affecting 8–10% of women globally. Beyond irregular cycles, acne, and weight changes, one of the most distressing — yet rarely discussed — effects is hyperpigmentation: darkened skin on the neck, underarms, thighs, groin, elbows, knees, and intimate areas.
This isn’t just cosmetic. It’s the visible skin sign of deeper hormonal and metabolic dysfunction, particularly:
- Insulin Resistance → elevated insulin stimulates melanocytes, increasing melanin
- Elevated Androgens → increase skin cell turnover, thickening skin and intensifying pigment
- Chronic Inflammation → worsens post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from friction and irritation
- Compromised Skin Barrier → allows irritation to penetrate, triggering even more pigmentation
This is why most standard lightening products fail to deliver lasting results — they target surface discoloration but ignore the underlying systemic drivers.
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★★★★★
Finally, something gentle enough for my sensitive skin! No irritation, just smoother skin and lighter dark spots. Strawberry genuinely works and I’m excited to keep using it.
WHAT MAKES STRAWBERRY DIFFERENT
Strawberry is the first skincare system formulated specifically for women with PCOS-related hyperpigmentation. Developed in collaboration with dermatologists and endocrinologists, it addresses not just the symptom (dark patches), but the biological mechanisms behind it.
Key actions:
- Exfoliates & Resurfaces Gently → With Glycolic Acid (5%) to safely remove pigmented dead skin without irritation.
- Reduces Melanin Formation & Strengthens Barrier → Using Kojic Acid Dipalmitate (2%) and Alpha-Arbutin (2%), it effectively targets pigmentation pathways to visibly brighten uneven tone
- Interrupts Hormonal & UV Pigment Signals → With Tranexamic Acid (2%), it helps block the triggers of stubborn dark patches caused by hormonal fluctuations or sun exposure
- Strengthens Barrier & Improves Skin Resilience → Niacinamide (5%) enhances skin barrier repair while reducing sensitivity and improving skin texture
Formulated specifically to avoid harshness, our product is free of hydroquinone, steroids, peeling acids at damaging concentrations, and all hormone-disrupting ingredients.
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★★★★★
My dark patches from PCOS made me feel self-conscious for years. I started using Strawberry a few weeks ago and I can already see a difference—my skin looks brighter and healthier. Love it!
EVIDENCE-BASED RESULTS
In a clinical evaluation of Strawberry Hyperpigmentation Brightening Cream:
88%
Showed measurable lightening of hyperpigmented areas after 1 week
91%
Reported improved skin texture and reduced thickening
95%
Observed fewer new dark patches when using Strawberry alongside proper sun protection
Importantly, no participants reported the irritation, redness, or paradoxical darkening often seen with conventional bleaching agents or aggressive chemical exfoliants.
FORMULATED WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Our dermatologist-developed formula combines five powerful active ingredients at the optimal concentration:
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2% Kojic Acid Dipalmitate: Reduces melanin production at the source, helping fade dark spots and brighten uneven skin tone
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6% Glycolic Acid: Penetrates deeply to dissolve keratin buildup
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2% Tranexamic Acid: Interrupts hormonal and UV-triggered pigmentation signals, targeting stubborn discoloration linked to conditions like PCOS
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2% Alpha-Arbutin: Blocks tyrosinase activity, visibly reducing dark patches and preventing new hyperpigmentation from forming
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5% Niacinamide: Strengthens the skin barrier, improves resilience, and reduces the appearance of redness or irritation from active treatments
Free of: parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, hydroquinone, and hormone-disrupting chemicals. Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free for sensitive PCOS-affected skin.
BEYOND SKIN: ADDRESSING THE EMOTIONAL BURDEN
Women with PCOS-related hyperpigmentation often face not only physical symptoms but also:
- Decreased self-esteem
- Social withdrawal and intimacy worries
- Years of frustration from ineffective treatments
- Daily concealment rituals just to feel presentable
Strawberry is designed to help break this cycle, restoring not only skin clarity but emotional well-being.
WE CREATED THE SOLUTION DERMATOLOGISTS COULDN'T
After testing every lotion, scrub, and acid on the market (and experiencing the same disappointment you have), we formulated something different.
Unlike other products that only address bumps OR redness, ReSurface targets BOTH – the key breakthrough for truly smooth, clear skin.
REAL RESULTS, REAL TIMELINES
We don't believe in false promises. Here's what to expect:
Week 1-2: Dark patches start visibly fading and your skin begins reclaiming its natural brightness.
Week 3-4: Noticeable improvement in overall skin tone, clarity, and evenness.
Week 5-8: Experience your skin's full transformation-dramatic fading of hyperpigmentation, brighter complexion, and renewed confidence in your appearance.
WHY STRAWBERRY WORKS WHEN NOTHING ELSE HAS
Your frustration with other products isn't in your head. Most KP treatments fail because they:
- Rely on only one active (usually just glycolic or kojic acid)
- Ignore redness completely (focusing only on bumps)
- Irritate sensitive skin with harsh concentrations
- Feel terrible to use (sticky, smelly, or greasy)
Our formula addresses each of these problems with a pH-balanced formula that feels lightweight and absorbs quickly with no sticky residue or medicinal smell.
TRY IT RISK-FREE FOR 60 DAYS
We're so confident in Strawberry that we offer a 60-day satisfaction guarantee. If you don't see the improvement you hoped for, we'll refund every penny.
Limited Time Offer: Get 20% off your first bottle with code BRIGHT20
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How soon will I start seeing results?
Most users see dark patches begin to fade noticeably within the first two weeks. Continued use delivers significant improvements within six to eight weeks.
How is it different from traditional hydroquinone creams?
Unlike hydroquinone products, which can irritate skin and cause rebound darkening, Strawberry uses gentle yet powerful ingredients like niacinamide, glycolic acid, kojic acid dipalmitate, alpha-arbutin, and tranexamic acid. Our formula is specifically designed to target PCOS-related pigmentation safely and effectively, delivering visible results without harsh side effects or skin sensitivity.
Can I use it on sensitive or intimate areas?
Yes, Strawberry is specifically formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, including intimate areas, underarms, inner thighs, neck, elbows, and knees.
Do I have to continue using the cream forever to maintain results?
No, once you reach your desired results, you can reduce usage to maintain your improved skin tone. Consistent sunscreen use is recommended to prevent future pigmentation.
Is the cream safe for all skin tones?
Yes, Strawberry is dermatologist formulated for safe and effective use on all skin tones, from fair to deep complexions, without the risk of discoloration or irritation.