Melasma & Pigmentation: 
Clearer, Brighter, More Even Skin

Pigmentation is one of the more common concerns we see in clinic, and can be one of the most complex to treat correctly. Whether it appears as sun spots, post-acne marks or the deeper patches of melasma, uneven tone can make skin look dull, older or tired, even when it is otherwise healthy.

What many people don’t realise is that pigmentation is not just a surface issue. It reflects changes in melanin production within the skin, often triggered by sun exposure, hormones, inflammation or previous skin injury. Treating it aggressively can sometimes make it worse, particularly melasma.

Our approach focuses on identifying the type of pigmentation first, then improving clarity gradually while protecting the skin from rebound darkening. With patience and the right strategy, significant improvement is achievable, even for stubborn or long-standing pigmentation.

UNDERSTANDING PIGMENTATION:

Types, Causes & What Actually Helps

Different forms of pigmentation respond to different treatments, so misdiagnosis is one of the main reasons people sometimes struggle to see results.

Common Types of Pigmentation

1. Sun Damage (commonly referred to as ‘Age Spots’)
   Flat brown marks caused by accumulative UV exposure. Sun damage most often appears on the face, chest and hands and tends to increase with age.
   
   
2. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
   Dark marks left behind after acne, irritation, injury or procedures. PIH is particularly common in darker skin tones and can persist for months if not treated correctly.
   
   
3. Melasma
   A chronic, hormonally influenced condition that causes symmetrical patches of brown or grey-brown pigmentation, typically on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead or jawline. Melasma can be triggered by sun exposure, heat and hormonal changes like pregnancy or hormone supplement use. It requires a longer-term management approach.
   
   
4. Freckles (Ephelides)
   Freckles are in fact a genetically influenced pigmentation that typically darkens with sun exposure and fades again when out of the sun. 
   
   

WHY PIGMENTATION APPEARS

Pigmentation happnes when melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin) become overactive. This can be triggered by a range of internal and external factors, including; 

• Sun exposure (UV radiation):  the primary driver of most pigmentation
• Hormonal changes:  especially relevant for melasma
• Heat and visible light:  can worsen melasma even without sun exposure
• Inflammation or skin injury: acne, irritation, procedures or even over-exfoliation
• Genetic predisposition: some people naturally produce more melanin or have more reactive melanocytes, making them more prone to pigmentation
• Ageing: accumulative UV damage becomes more visible over time
  
  

WHY MELASMA NEEDS SPECIAL CARE

Melasma behaves differently from other pigmentation. It happens deeper in the skin and is highly reactive to heat, sunlight and inflammation. Aggressive treatments, strong peels or excessive laser use can sometimes trigger rebound darkening.

For this reason, the goal is management rather than a quick “cure.” With the right approach, melasma can be significantly improved and kept stable - but it requires consistency, protection and the right care. 

INGREDIENTS THAT CAN IMPROVE PIGMENTATION

Topical treatments play a key role in maintaining results between clinic visits. These all help;

• Vitamin C
  Helps brighten skin and reduce oxidative damage that contributes to pigmentation.
  
  
• Retinoids / Retinol
  Encourage cell turnover, helping disperse existing pigment and improve overall skin tone.
  
  
• Azelaic Acid
  Useful for both pigmentation and inflammation, particularly in sensitive or acne-prone skin.
  
  
• Tranexamic Acid
  Increasingly used for melasma due to its ability to interrupt pigment pathways.
  
  
• Niacinamide
  Supports barrier health while helping reduce uneven skin tone.
  
  
• Gentle Exfoliating Acids (e.g. Lactic Acid)
  Promote gradual removal of pigmented surface cells without excessive or further irritation.

The Most Important Treatment: Sun Protection!

If pigmentation is spreading, persistent, or affecting your confidence, our professional assessment can determine the type and depth of pigment and prevent ineffective or harmful treatments.

Early intervention often produces the best outcomes, particularly for melasma.

WHY CHOOSE US FOR MELASMA AND PIGMENTATION?

• Personalised Approach
  Every treatment plan begins with a detailed skin assessment, ensuring your programme is tailored to your pigmentation type and skin tone.
  
  
• Advanced Technology
  Our Neo Series laser treatments and Cosmelan depigmentation system use some of the most precise technologies available for melasma and pigmentation management.
  
  
• Experienced Practitioners
  All treatments are delivered by trained specialists for safe, considered care.
  
  
• Long Term Focus
  We aim to improve visible pigmentation and support long term skin brightness, not just temporary surface changes.

OUR PIGMENTATION TREATMENTS

Laser Treatments

• Neo Series for Pigmentation and Melasma
  A gentle yet effective laser treatment that targets excess pigment below the surface of the skin. Suitable for all skin tones with minimal downtime.

Depigmentation Peel

• Cosmelan Peel
  A powerful in clinic treatment designed to reduce moderate to severe pigmentation concerns including melasma, sun damage and post inflammatory marks. Helps restore clarity and uniformity.

Advanced Resurfacing Treatments

• Ultimate Radio Frequency Facial
  A high performance resurfacing treatment that uses radio frequency and microneedling to support skin renewal. Helps soften the appearance of pigmentation, refine texture and promote a brighter, more even complexion.

YOUR TREATMENT JOURNEY

1. Consultation and Skin Analysis
   A detailed assessment to understand your pigmentation type, history and goals.
   
   
2. Tailored Treatment Plan
   A personalised combination of laser, peeling treatments and homecare for optimal improvement.
   
   
3. Treatment and Monitoring
   Regular sessions with close monitoring to track progress and adjust where needed.
   
   
4. Maintenance and Prevention
   Guidance on sun protection, lifestyle triggers and a bespoke homecare routine to help maintain results.

FAQs

Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: Treatment length depends on your pigmentation type and severity, but many clients see improvements within a few sessions.

Q:  Is it painful?
A: Both the Neo Series and Cosmelan Peel are well tolerated. Mild warmth or tingling may be experienced.

Q:  Can Melasma come back?
A: Melasma is a chronic condition that can be triggered by heat, sun or hormones. Maintenance and good sun protection help support long term clarity.

Q:  Can I combine treatments?
A: Yes. Combining laser, peeling treatments and targeted homecare often delivers the best outcome.

Book Your Pigmentation Consultation

Take the first step toward clearer, brighter and more even skin. Our specialists are here to guide you with a considered, personalised approach.

Book Your Pigmentation Consultation Today