WHAT IS PIGMENTATION?
Pigmentation refers to areas of the skin that appear darker due to excess melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin colour, and when it becomes overproduced or unevenly distributed, darker patches or spots can develop.
Pigmentation can vary in depth and severity depending on the underlying cause.
PIGMENTATION FAQs
Common types include:
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) – dark marks left after acne or skin trauma
• Sun damage / age spots – caused by cumulative UV exposure
• Melasma – hormonally influenced pigmentation, often appearing symmetrically on the cheeks or forehead
• Freckles – genetically influenced pigment that darkens with sun exposure
Correctly identifying the type of pigmentation is essential for choosing the right treatment approach.
Pigmentation can be triggered by:
• UV exposure
• Hormonal changes (including pregnancy or contraception)
• Inflammation or skin trauma
• Heat exposure
• Genetics
Melanin production is part of the skin’s protective response, but when overstimulated, it can become uneven and persistent.
Treatment depends on the type of pigmentation present and its underlying root cause. Because pigmentation can be influenced by hormones, UV exposure, inflammation and lifestyle factors, a combination approach is often required.
Your treatment plan may include professional chemical peels, targeted pigment-regulating treatments and structured homecare. In some cases, adjustments to sun protection habits, heat exposure and overall lifestyle can significantly influence results.
Successful pigmentation management is rarely about one single treatment — it requires consistency, barrier support and long-term strategy.
Pigmentation improvement is gradual. Many clients begin to see visible changes within 8 -12 weeks when following a structured treatment plan and consistent homecare.
More persistent pigmentation may require several months of treatment and maintenance.
Melasma is a chronic, hormonally influenced condition. Unlike some forms of pigmentation, it cannot always be permanently removed.
It is highly sensitive to UV light, heat and hormonal fluctuations, meaning maintenance and strict sun protection are essential to prevent recurrence.
Melasma management focuses on long-term control rather than quick correction.
Some forms of pigmentation, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, respond very well to treatment.
However, deeper or hormonally driven pigmentation (such as melasma) may require ongoing management. The goal is to significantly reduce visibility and create a more even skin tone while maintaining results safely.