Pigmentation is a common concern that can affect clients of all skin types and tones. It refers to the colouring of the skin caused by melanin – a natural pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. Melanin is responsible for the colour of your skin, hair and eyes, and it’s influenced by genetics, hormones and environmental factors.
While pigmentation itself is a normal process and essential for protection against UV radiation, imbalances in melanin production can leave a visible mark on the skin. Whether it appears as sunspots, melasma or marks left behind after acne, uneven skin tone can affect confidence and often becomes more noticeable over time.
Understanding the underlying cause is the first step towards choosing the most effective treatment. A personalised consultation allows your clinician to identify the underlying cause of your pigmentation and recommend a tailored treatment plan designed to achieve the safest and most effective outcome.
7 Common Types of Pigmentation
1. Sunspots (Solar Lentigines)
Often referred to as age spots or sunspots, solar lentigines develop after years of cumulative UV exposure. They commonly appear on areas that receive the most sun, including the face, chest and hands.
What causes sunspots?
Repeated sun exposure stimulates excess melanin production, resulting in well-defined brown spots that gradually become more noticeable with age.
2. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
PIH occurs after the skin has experienced inflammation or injury. It commonly develops following acne breakouts but may also occur after eczema, burns or skin trauma.
What causes PIH?
Inflammation triggers increased melanin production as the skin heals, leaving behind dark marks once the original condition has resolved.
3. Melasma
Melasma presents as larger patches of brown or grey-brown pigmentation, most commonly across the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and chin. It is often symmetrical and can be more challenging to treat than other forms of pigmentation.
What causes Melasma?
Melasma is influenced by a combination of hormones, genetics and UV/heat exposure. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives and hormonal changes can all contribute to its development.
4. Freckles (Ephelides)
Freckles are small, flat pigmented spots that often appear during childhood and become darker with sun exposure.
What causes freckles?
Freckles are largely genetic but become more visible when UV exposure stimulates melanin production.
5. Diffuse Pigmentation
Rather than appearing as individual spots, diffuse pigmentation presents as an overall uneven or dull skin tone, often giving the complexion a tired appearance.
What causes it?
Diffuse pigmentation may result from cumulative sun damage, ageing, environmental exposure or multiple contributing pigment pathways.
6. Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is characterised by an overproduction of melanin, causing areas of the skin to darken more than others. You’ll see dark patches or spots that appear on various parts of the skin, including the face, hands and body. These spots can range in size and intensity.
What causes hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by excessive UV exposure, hormonal fluctuations, skin injuries and certain medications or chronic medical conditions.
7. Hypopigmentation
While hyperpigmentation is the excess of melanin in the skin, hypopigmentation is a reduction of melanin, leading to lighter patches of skin than in the surrounding areas.
What causes hypopigmentation?
This can be caused by skin trauma, conditions like vitiligo or albinism, infections, chronic sun exposure or inflammatory diseases.
HOW TO TREAT PIGMENTATION
Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Not all pigmentation should be treated in the same way. Some conditions respond exceptionally well to laser treatment, while others, such as melasma, can worsen if treated incorrectly. This is why an accurate diagnosis is essential before commencing treatment.
Prevention Is Always Part of Treatment
Regardless of the type of pigmentation, daily sun protection remains the single most important step in both prevention and maintaining treatment results.
In Clinic Treatment options
- Laser & Light treatments (where clinically appropriate) view laser & light
- Chemical peels
- Microneedling in suitable cases view skin needling
- Pigment-regulating or inhibiting ingredients
- Following a personalised skincare routine designed for your skin
- Attending regular review appointments to monitor progress
The Takeaway
Pigmentation is rarely a one-size-fits-all condition. While many treatments can produce significant improvements, lasting results begin with an accurate diagnosis and a personalised approach.
At Artisan, every treatment plan is guided by a thorough consultation, evidence-based recommendations and a commitment to achieving the safest and most effective outcome for you
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