Pigmentation refers to areas of uneven skin colour caused by excess melanin production within the skin. Melanin is the natural pigment that gives skin its colour, but when produced unevenly or in excess, it can lead to darker patches, uneven tone, or discolouration.
Pigmentation can appear as isolated patches, diffuse unevenness, or marks left after inflammation. It may affect the face, neck, chest, hands, and other sun-exposed areas, often becoming more noticeable over time.
There are different types of pigmentation, including sun-induced pigmentation, post-inflammatory pigmentation, and hormonally influenced pigmentation.
Pigmentation can present in different ways depending on the cause.
Common signs include:
Some pigmentation remains superficial, while deeper pigmentation may take longer to improve.
Pigmentation develops when melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, become overactive.
Common triggers include:
Once triggered, pigment can remain within the skin for prolonged periods unless cell turnover and pigment regulation are improved.
Pigmentation can affect all skin types and all ages, although the pattern and severity often vary.
It is particularly common in people who:
Some skin types are naturally more reactive to pigment production following inflammation.
Treatment focuses on regulating pigment production, improving skin turnover, and reducing visible discolouration while maintaining skin health.
For best results, treatment is often combined with consistent medical-grade skincare and strict sun protection.
SkinPen stimulates controlled skin renewal and collagen production, helping improve skin clarity and support more even pigment distribution.
It can help:
A treatment course is often recommended for gradual improvement.
Obagi Nu-Derm System is a clinically led prescription skincare programme designed to improve pigmentation and encourage healthier skin renewal. It works by:
This system is particularly effective for persistent or widespread pigmentation concerns.
Obagi Blue Radiance Peel gently exfoliates the skin to remove dull surface cells and improve visible pigmentation.
It is ideal for:
A course of peels may be recommended depending on pigment depth and skin condition.
Every face is unique. During your consultation, we’ll assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and design a bespoke treatment plan tailored to you.