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Pigmentation & sun damage

Uneven tone, age spots and visible signs of cumulative sun exposure.

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Close-up of freckles and pigmentation across the cheek and nose
Understanding the concern

Not all pigment
behaves the same way.

Pigmentation can include sun spots, freckles, melasma and marks left after inflammation. These may look similar but have different triggers, depths and patterns—so the wrong treatment can be ineffective or make pigment more noticeable.

What you may notice
  • Flat brown sun or age spots
  • Patchy or symmetrical facial pigmentation
  • Marks following acne, irritation or injury
  • Uneven tone with other signs of sun damage
01

Why it can happen

Ultraviolet exposure stimulates melanin production and can create scattered sun spots over time. Melasma is influenced by light, hormones and predisposition, while post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation follows inflammation or trauma and is more common in some skin tones.

02

How we assess it

Emma assesses the distribution, colour and likely depth of pigment and checks for factors such as pregnancy, hormonal treatment, medication, recent inflammation and sun exposure. Any lesion that appears atypical or requires diagnosis is referred appropriately.

03

Options we may discuss

Depending on the diagnosis and skin type, a plan may involve daily broad-spectrum SPF, personalised skincare, chemical peels or carefully selected laser treatment. Melasma and post-inflammatory pigment generally require a cautious, long-term approach.

04

Important to know

Pigmentation can recur, particularly with sunlight and hormonal triggers. Maintenance and high-factor sun protection are central to treatment—not optional extras.

This information is general and is not a diagnosis. New, changing, bleeding or otherwise concerning skin lesions should be assessed by an appropriate medical professional.

A personal assessment

Let’s begin with a conversation.

If you are unsure what is causing your concern, book a consultation and we will help you understand the next steps.

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