Pigmentation: Why it happens and how to treat it

Battling with areas of pigmentation? Here's what you can do to treat it.

Pigmentation is a common skin concern that affects many of us, but you don't have to put up with it forever. There are options you can take to both minimise and prevent pigmentation from forming, and treatments available to improve the appearance of any dark spots that already exist.

What causes pigmentation?

Sun exposure is a common cause of hyperpigmentation on areas that frequently see the sun, such as our hands and face.

Melasma, meanwhile, is believed to be caused by hormonal changes such as pregnancy. Certain medications can also cause hyperpigmentation.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when a blemish or other skin injury heals, leaving a discoloured mark behind.

Types of pigmentation

Hypopigmentation: Lighter spots that appear on skin due to an absence of normal amounts of melanin (the chemical which gives skin its colour).

Hyperpigmentation: Where dark spots appear on the skin. This is the more common of the two and caused by an increase in melanin. One of the most common hyperpigmentary problems is Melasma. This condition is characterized by tan or brown patches on the face, most commonly appearing on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, and upper lips.

Treatments for pigmentation

It's important to limit sun exposure to stop existing pigmentation from darkening and prevent new dark spots from forming, and wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin when you are outdoors.

For more advanced results, we offer a range of targeted skin treatments to help reduce pigmentation and the signs of sun damage. A tailored plan of laser treatments such as microdermabrasion can be particularly effective, but our expert Skin Technicians will be able to give you advice customised for your needs.