SKIN CONDITIONS
Pigmentation and Discolouration

Pigmentation disorders are common and provide significant distress to some patients. Brown blotches on the face are often obvious and hard to conceal. Knowing the cause of the discoloration guides the treatment and usually requires medical assessment by one of our dermatologists.

How to treat discolouration depends the cause of the pigmentation.


Melasma requires correct diagnosis and strict photo protection. It can be treated with a combination of cosmeceutical grade skin care, medical fading creams and sometimes tablets. Chemical peels can be helpful. Lasers are generally not used these days for melasma as they risk making the condition worse.
Sun damage requires dermatologic assessment and if deemed benign can very effectively be treated with pigment lasers, such as the Pastelle Laser. Patients should allow for 1-2 treatments with 1-2 weeks of downtime that can be covered with make up. Some spots can recur with time over years. Suspicious pigmentation should be biopsied or removed surgically.


Post inflammatory pigmentation requires treating the underlying inflammatory condition. For example many people get brown marks on the skin from acne. This is not scarring. It may improve with skin care, chemical peels and some medicated creams or pigment laser.

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Causes of Skin Pigmentation

• Melasma

• Sun damage

• Skin Cancer (melanoma)

• Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (especially from acne or eczema)

• Solar lentigo

• Seborrheic Keratosis

Treatment of Skin Pigmentation
Treatment of Melasma Skin Pigmentation

Melasma requires correct diagnosis and strict photo protection. It can be treated with a combination of cosmeceutical grade skin care, medical fading creams and sometimes tablets. Chemical peels can be helpful. Lasers are generally not used these days for melasma as they risk making the condition worse.

Treatment of Sun damage skin pigmentation

Sun damage requires dermatologic assessment and if deemed benign can very effectively be treated with pigment lasers, such as the Pastelle Laser. Patients should allow for 1-2 treatments with 1-2 weeks of downtime that can be covered with make up. Some spots can recur with time over years. Suspicious pigmentation should be biopsied or removed surgically.
Sun damage requires dermatologic assessment and if deemed benign can very effectively be treated with pigment lasers, such as the Pastelle Laser. Patients should allow for 1-2 treatments with 1-2 weeks of downtime that can be covered with make up. Some spots can recur with time over years. Suspicious pigmentation should be biopsied or removed surgically.

Treatment of Post inflammatory sun pigmentation

Post inflammatory pigmentation requires treating the underlying inflammatory condition. For example many people get brown marks on the skin from acne. This is not scarring. It may improve with skin care, chemical peels and some medicated creams or pigment laser.



Pigment FAQs
  • What is the best Cream for pigmentation

    Depending on the cause of the pigmentation, a fading cream such as a prescribed tyrosinase inhibitor like hydroquinone can be very effective. There are many non prescription grade options such as mela cream and other topical antioxidants. Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Alpha hydroxy acids and retinol are also great pigment treaters. Dermaceutic Melacream: A cream designed to prevent further pigmentation and lighten existing discolouration. Containg: Kojic Acid, Niacinamide, Retinol, Salicylic Acid, Phytic Acid, Licorice Extract, and Mandelic Acid. Perfect for someone looking for an active that delivers for both pigment and ageing concerns.
    Aspect Complete Pigment Plus: A light-weight serum suitable for sensitive skin types as well as those pregnant and breastfeeding. Containg: A blend of ingredients that regulate and inhibit pigmentation. Formulated with Tranexamic acid; an amino acid to diminish the appearance of existing dark spots and further prevent future pigmentation. Niacinamide (Vit B3) balance over all skin barrier and appearance. Plus, a signature blend of Australian botanicals. .

  • What is the best treatment for pigmentation?

    The best treatment for pigmentation will depend upon the cause of the pigmentation. Sometimes no treatment is necessary as some types of pigment will fade naturally.

  • What is the difference between melasma and pigmentation?

    They can be one and the same. Melasma is a form of pigmentation that is hormonal. It is often brought on by pregnancy, contraceptive pills and sun light exposure.

  • How do you treat hyperpigmentation?

    Hyperpigmentation treatment depends on the cause of the hyperpigmentation. In many cases topical hydroquinone would be used especially if it is a result of a laser treatment. We would mostly chose to use hydroquinone before laser in those who are prone to hyperpigmentation. A consultation with a dermatologist is required or this.

  • Can pigment be removed?

    Pigmentation can absolutely be removed! However, Melasma is a chronic condition that never completely resolves, we can simply manage triggers are improve the appearance.

  • My skin is discoloured, what do I do?

    If your skin is discoloured consider your sun protective measures such as SPF and protective clothing (hat, sunglasses etc) Also, consider topical skincare that can brighten the skin. It is best to consult with a dermal clinician to consider the best products for your skin concerns.