Pigmentation refers to changes in skin colour caused by an increase or uneven distribution of melanin, the natural pigment that gives our skin its colour.

It can appear as dark spots, patches or an overall uneven skin tone. Pigmentation can affect all skin types and may become more noticeable with age and repeated sun exposure.

What Causes Pigmentation?

There are several causes of pigmentation, with cumulative sun exposure being one of the most common. UV exposure stimulates melanin production and can lead to visible sun spots, age spots and uneven skin tone.

Hormonal changes, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, inflammation from acne, skin injuries and genetics can also contribute to pigmentation.

Types of Pigmentation

Different types of pigmentation can look similar but develop for different reasons.

Sun spots and age spots are flat areas of brown pigmentation caused by cumulative sun exposure and commonly appear on the face, chest, hands and arms.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) develops following inflammation or injury, often leaving brown or darker marks after acne or other skin concerns have healed.

Melasma causes symmetrical brown or grey patches, usually across the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and jawline. It is strongly influenced by hormones and can be more complex to manage.

Freckles are also areas of concentrated pigment influenced by genetics and sun exposure.

Pigmentation and Sun Damage

Pigmentation is one of the most visible signs of sun damage, but UV exposure can affect the skin in other ways too. It can contribute to redness, broken capillaries, uneven texture, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.

Understanding the cause of pigmentation is important because different types can respond differently to treatment. In some cases, inappropriate treatment can make pigmentation worse.

How Can Pigmentation Be Treated?

At Nassif MedSpa in MediaCity, Salford Quays, pigmentation can be treated using advanced technologies including Sciton BBL HERO, MOXI and HALO laser resurfacing, alongside medical-grade skincare.

BBL HERO can target visible pigmentation and sun damage, while MOXI is designed to improve uneven skin tone and encourage skin renewal. HALO can address pigmentation alongside texture, pores, fine lines and collagen loss.

Treatment is always tailored to the individual, based on the type of pigmentation, skin type and overall skin concerns.

Why Can Pigmentation Return?

Some forms of pigmentation can return following treatment, particularly when influenced by sun exposure, hormones or inflammation.

Daily broad-spectrum SPF and an appropriate skincare routine are therefore an important part of managing pigmentation and maintaining results.

At Nassif MedSpa, every treatment plan begins with a professional skin assessment to identify the type of pigmentation and determine the most appropriate approach for clearer, brighter and more even-looking skin.