Pigmentation
Knowing which type of pigmentation you have is the first step in managing it.
Pigmentation is uneven colour in the skin, such as sun spots or melasma. It is common in South Australia, where UV levels are high for much of the year. IPL Skin Rejuvenation and skin needling may support a more even skin tone, and Heather Holbrook assesses your skin first to work out which approach may suit the type and depth of pigment.
Reviewed by Heather Holbrook, Dermal Clinician, 35 years' experience. Last reviewed .
Understanding pigmentation
Pigmentation can affect people of all skin types and ages. It may show as defined spots or as a more general unevenness in tone that sits outside the skin's natural colour.
Not all pigmentation is the same. What triggered it and how long it has been present both affect how it responds to treatment.
SPF 50+ daily is non-negotiable for any pigmentation management plan.
Signs to be aware of
Different forms of pigmentation
Sun Damage and Photoageing
The most common form in an Australian context. Cumulative UV exposure causes melanocytes to become overactive, resulting in sunspots, freckling and diffuse unevenness across the face, hands and decolletage. These changes often become more apparent from the 30s onward. More on sun damage.
Melasma
A hormonally influenced pigmentation presenting as symmetrical patches, typically on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead and chin. Can be triggered or worsened by pregnancy, hormonal contraception and sun exposure. Often sits deeper in the skin. More on melasma.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Discolouration that develops after inflammation such as acne, a wound or skin trauma. As the skin heals, it can overproduce melanin in the affected area, leaving a darker mark. More common in medium to deeper skin tones.
Pigment closer to the surface (epidermal) and pigment that sits deeper (dermal) often need different approaches. Deeper pigment usually needs a longer, more considered plan.
How we can support you
The right approach depends on the type of pigmentation. Sun damage and diffuse unevenness may suit IPL Skin Rejuvenation or skin needling. Melasma and more complex pigmentation need a personalised plan, which Heather will work out with you at your assessment.
Device treatment
IPL Skin RejuvenationTargets melanin in the skin and may suit sun damage and diffuse photoageing.
Skin treatment
Skin NeedlingMay support skin renewal and the appearance of more even skin tone over a treatment course.
At-home skincare
Custom Dermaviduals FormulationsHeather mixes Dermaviduals skincare bespoke to your skin's specific needs. These custom formulations support your clinic treatment plan and are recommended at consultation.
Pigmentation FAQs
What causes uneven skin tone?
Uneven skin tone usually comes from excess melanin in some areas of the skin. Sun exposure is the most common trigger. Hormonal changes and skin inflammation, such as acne, can also leave darker patches.
Is IPL suitable for all pigmentation?
No. IPL may suit sun damage and diffuse pigmentation in suitable skin types, but it is not appropriate for every skin tone or for some types of melasma. Heather will let you know whether it suits your skin.
Can pigmentation come back?
It can. New sun exposure and hormonal changes can trigger pigment again, and melasma in particular tends to recur. Daily sun protection and an at-home plan help protect the skin between treatments.
How many sessions might I need?
It depends on the type and depth of pigment. Many people need a course of treatments spaced several weeks apart. Heather will give you an estimate and the costs at your consultation. Individual results vary.
Talk to us about pigmentation
Book online, or call us on 0403 292 292 if you would like to talk it through first.
Book a ConsultationPerformed by Heather Holbrook, Dermal Clinician, at our Largs Bay clinic.