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Pigmentation concerns can appear in different ways, including areas of increased pigment (hyperpigmentation) and reduced pigment (hypopigmentation). Each behaves differently and requires a tailored approach. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin, leading to brown spots or darker patches often triggered by sun exposure, inflammation or hormonal changes. Hypopigmentation results from a reduction or absence of melanin, creating lighter areas of skin. This may be associated with conditions such as vitiligo, albinism or pigment loss following UV damage.

Ephelides (Freckles) & Solar Lentigines (Sun Spots)

Freckles and sun spots both appear as flat brown marks on sun‑exposed areas.

• Freckles typically develop in childhood, fade in winter and are more common in fair skin types.

• Solar lentigines persist year‑round and become more common with age and cumulative sun exposure.

Any new or changing brown spot should be assessed to rule out more serious conditions. While bleaching creams are generally ineffective, certain light‑based therapies can significantly improve their appearance.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term for any darkening of the skin caused by excess melanin. It can appear as:

• brown spots

• uneven patches

• post‑inflammatory marks after acne, eczema or injury

• sun‑induced pigmentation

Common triggers:

• UV exposure

• inflammation

• skin trauma

• certain medications

• hormonal changes

Hyperpigmentation can occur in any skin type, anywhere on the body, and varies widely in depth and severity.

Melasma

Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation, but it behaves very differently. It appears as symmetric, patchy brown pigmentation, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and nose.

What makes melasma unique:

• It is strongly influenced by hormones (pregnancy, oral contraceptives, hormonal fluctuations).

• It is highly sun‑sensitive and worsens quickly with UV and heat exposure.

• It is more common in women and in individuals with Asian, Hispanic, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean backgrounds.

• It tends to be chronic, meaning it can be managed but not “cured.”

Melasma requires a gentle, long‑term management plan, as aggressive treatments can make it worse.

Flexible, expert advice when you need it. Book hourly support across a range of topics—from planning to problem-solving. This focused consultation will help clarify your goals, map out next steps, and identify opportunities for growth.

Flexible, expert advice when you need it. Book hourly support across a range of topics—from planning to problem-solving. This focused consultation will help clarify your goals, map out next steps, and identify opportunities for growth.

Flexible, expert advice when you need it. Book hourly support across a range of topics—from planning to problem-solving. This focused consultation will help clarify your goals, map out next steps, and identify opportunities for growth.