Skin Concerns

Pigmentation

Identifying your type of pigmentation first, then treating it with the right approach for your skin.

TREATMENTS FOR PIGMENTATION

UltraClear

Cold Fiber Laser resurfacing with less downtime and deep collagen renewal.

Chemical Skin Peels

Resurfacing peels for clearer, brighter, smoother skin.

ClearLift Pro

No-downtime Nd:YAG laser for pigmentation, lines and skin quality.

Axion Microneedling

Collagen-induction microneedling for scars, pores and skin quality.

What is it

The different types of pigmentation

Pigmentation refers to the colour of the skin and, in aesthetic medicine, describes areas that appear darker, lighter or uneven in tone. These changes occur when melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, is produced or distributed differently within the skin.

Pigmentation is an umbrella term covering several distinct concerns, and correct identification matters because a treatment suitable for one type may not suit another.

Hyperpigmentation describes areas that have become darker, appearing as isolated spots or larger patches. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) can remain after acne, eczema, trauma or burns have settled, and can be more persistent in darker skin tones.

Melasma appears as symmetrical brown or grey-brown facial patches, commonly across the cheeks, forehead and upper lip; hormonal influences, UV exposure and visible light all play a role, and it can be persistent and prone to recurring.

Age spots, or solar lentigines, are flat patches linked to cumulative sun exposure. Hypopigmentation describes lighter areas with reduced pigment; unexplained pigment loss, including suspected vitiligo, should be medically assessed rather than treated aesthetically.

Incorrect treatment can worsen pigmentation, which is why, at 111 Harley Street, we assess your pigmentation by type, distribution, depth, and individual skin tone before recommending a personalised plan that combines in-clinic treatment and home skincare.

FAQs

Get clarity before your consultation

Your pigmentation questions answered, from treatment choices to how long fading really takes.

What is the best treatment for pigmentation?

The most appropriate treatment depends on the type, depth and cause of the pigmentation, as well as your skin tone. Treatment may involve medical-grade skincare, chemical peels, laser or light-based treatments, or a combination approach following a professional assessment.

How is hyperpigmentation different from pigmentation?

Pigmentation refers broadly to the colour of the skin and changes in skin colour. Hyperpigmentation specifically describes areas that have become darker because of increased melanin. Pigmentation concerns can also include hypopigmentation, where the skin becomes lighter.

Can laser treatment remove pigmentation?

Certain laser and light-based treatments can reduce some types of pigmentation, including suitable sun-related pigmentation. However, laser treatment is not appropriate for every pigmentation concern, and certain conditions can worsen if treated incorrectly. The type of pigmentation and skin tone should therefore be assessed first.

Can hyperpigmentation be permanently removed?

Some areas of hyperpigmentation can be significantly reduced, but recurrence is possible depending on the underlying cause. Continued sun exposure, inflammation and hormonal factors can trigger further pigmentation, which is why sun protection and an appropriate maintenance programme are often important.

How long does pigmentation take to fade?

This varies considerably according to the type, depth and cause of pigmentation. Some post-inflammatory pigmentation gradually fades over several months, while sun spots and melasma can be more persistent. Treatment time also varies according to the individual’s skin tone and the treatment approach recommended.