Close-up of facial hyperpigmentation and melasma on the cheek

Pigmentation Treatments

Name: Pigmentation Treatments
Creator: Dr Selena Langdon
Published: 2024-01-15

Diagnosis and management of hyperpigmentation disorders

Pigmentation concerns can look similar but respond very differently depending on whether the driver is melasma, sun damage or post-inflammatory change. We assess pattern, depth and trigger profile before choosing a safe protocol for your skin tone. Doctor-led plans focus on gradual correction, recurrence control and barrier support rather than short-term overcorrection.

Doctor-Led

CQC Registered

Award-Recognised

Est. 2016

Aetiology & Contributing Factors

Most skin and aesthetic concerns are multifactorial. Clinical assessment helps identify which contributing factors are most relevant in your case before treatment is selected.

Cumulative sun exposure and UV damage stimulating excess melanin production
Hormonal influences, particularly melasma related to pregnancy, contraception or hormone therapy
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following acne, injury or certain treatments
Genetic predisposition and skin type (darker skin tones are more prone to certain types)
Ageing and cumulative photodamage leading to age spots and solar lentigines
Certain medications that increase photosensitivity

Clinical Presentation

Presentation varies by skin type, severity and duration. These are common clinical signs we assess during consultation.

Dark patches or spots on the face, hands, chest or décolletage
Uneven skin tone or mottled complexion
Brown, tan or greyish marks that may be flat or slightly raised
Melasma presenting as symmetrical patches, often on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip
Post-inflammatory marks following acne or skin trauma

Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities

Treatment selection is individualised following clinical assessment, taking into account disease severity, Fitzpatrick skin type, medical history and patient goals. You can also review our consultation standards before booking.

Cutera Excel V+ treatment for pigmentation

Cutera Excel V+ laser targets pigmented lesions using precise 532nm and 1064nm wavelengths to break down excess melanin. Effective for sun spots, age spots and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Treatment is planned by lesion type and skin tone after clinical assessment.

Lumenis M22 treatment for pigmentation

Lumenis M22 IPL delivers targeted light energy to fragment melanin in pigmented lesions, which the body then naturally clears. Q-Switch protocols are available for specific pigment concerns including deeper or resistant pigmentation.

Chemical Peels treatment for pigmentation

Medical-grade chemical peels exfoliate the outer layers of skin to reduce melanin deposits and promote cell turnover. Peel type and strength are selected based on your pigmentation type, skin tone and sensitivity. Suitability and sequencing are confirmed during your consultation.

Alma Hybrid CO2 treatment for pigmentation

Alma Hybrid CO2 laser can target deeper pigmentation and sun damage by precisely removing damaged skin layers and stimulating collagen renewal. Suitability depends on your skin type and the nature of your pigmentation.

Dermalux Triwave MD treatment for pigmentation

Dermalux LED phototherapy uses specific light wavelengths to reduce inflammation, support skin healing and complement other pigmentation treatments. It is gentle and suitable for sensitive or reactive skin.

In-Depth Guides

Explore clinically reviewed guides for detailed background, treatment pathways and recovery expectations related to pigmentation.

Guide: Acne & Scarring Hub

Comprehensive guide to acne-related pigmentation and scarring.

Guide: Pigmentation & Melasma Guide

In-depth guide to PIH, melasma and uneven skin tone treatments.

Guide: Pigmentation Laser & IPL Guide

Diagnosis-first guide to laser and IPL options for pigment concerns.

Guide: Post-Acne Redness (PIE)

Understanding the difference between PIE and PIH after acne.

Why we start with a consultation

Every treatment begins with a medical assessment. We need to understand your medical history, current health, skin condition and concerns before prescribing any procedure. This protects your safety and ensures the treatment is clinically appropriate for you.

During your consultation, your clinician will explain what the treatment can realistically achieve, any risks specific to you, and whether an alternative might be more appropriate. Consultations are carried out by our doctors or advanced aesthetic practitioners, depending on the treatment or concern being assessed.

Book a Consultation Call 01628 202028

All bookings are subject to our Booking Conditions.

Not sure what you need?

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Clinical FAQs: Pigmentation

These answers cover common practical questions. For individual diagnosis and treatment advice, book a medical consultation.

This is assessed during your consultation. Common types include sun-related age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The type determines which treatments are safe and effective.

Melasma is a chronic condition that can be managed but not permanently cured. Treatment can significantly reduce its appearance, but ongoing sun protection and maintenance are usually necessary.

Yes, with careful assessment. Some treatments carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin. Our doctors select the safest approach for your skin type.

This depends on the type and severity of your pigmentation. Some patients see significant improvement after 2–3 sessions; others require a longer course. Your doctor will advise at consultation.

Without consistent sun protection and appropriate skincare, pigmentation can return. We provide guidance on maintaining results and reducing recurrence as part of your treatment plan.

Chemical peels may involve a few days of peeling and redness. Laser treatments may require up to a week of recovery. LED therapy has no downtime. Your doctor will set clear expectations.

Yes. UV exposure is the primary trigger for most types of pigmentation. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential both during and after treatment to protect results and prevent recurrence.

Some treatments are best performed when sun exposure is minimal. Your doctor will advise on timing and emphasise the importance of rigorous sun protection throughout your treatment course.

Plan Your Next Step

Use these links to review consultation standards, check treatment pricing, and request a doctor-led assessment.

Read consultation standards View treatment prices in Maidenhead Book a doctor-led consultation Browse all conditions we treat

Clinically reviewed by

Dr Selena Langdon — Medical Director, MBBS

GMC 6159259

Last reviewed: 31 March 2026

Clinical Summary

Expected Recovery PeriodMinimal to moderate — LED therapy has no downtime; chemical peels involve a few days of peeling; laser resurfacing may require up to a week of recovery

Therapeutic ResponseInitial improvements visible within 1–2 weeks after peels; laser results develop over 4–8 weeks; a course of treatments typically produces optimal results over 2–3 months

Clinical Governance

Our doctors diagnose the type and cause of pigmentation before recommending treatment — not all pigmentation responds to the same approach
We use a range of clinical technologies and can combine treatments for more effective results
Patients with darker skin tones receive careful assessment to minimise the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from treatment

Book a Consultation

Request a medical assessment for your pigmentation with our clinical team.

Book Now Call 01628 202028