Pigmentation concerns are one of the most common reasons patients seek dermatological advice. While changes in skin colour are often harmless, pigmentation can be persistent, difficult to treat, and emotionally distressing. Successful management depends on accurate diagnosis, medical expertise, and a structured treatment plan.

At The Adare Clinic, pigmentation is treated by doctors using a dermatology-led, evidence-based approach, focused on identifying the underlying cause, treating it safely, and preventing recurrence.

What Is Pigmentation?

Pigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin — the pigment responsible for skin colour. This excess melanin becomes unevenly distributed, leading to darkened patches or spots on the skin.

Pigmentation can affect all skin types and tones and most commonly appears on:

• The face
• Hands
• Neck
• Chest

While pigmentation is not usually harmful, it often reflects underlying skin inflammation, sun damage, or hormonal influence, which must be addressed for effective treatment.

Common Types of Pigmentation

Sun-Induced Pigmentation

Also known as sun spots or age spots, this type develops after cumulative sun exposure. It typically appears on areas frequently exposed to UV radiation.

Melasma

Melasma presents as symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It is strongly associated with:

• Hormonal changes
• Pregnancy
• Oral contraceptives
• Sun exposure

Melasma is a chronic condition that requires careful, ongoing management.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

PIH occurs after skin inflammation or injury, such as:

• Acne
• Eczema
• Trauma
• Procedures

It is particularly common in darker skin tones and can persist for months without appropriate treatment.

Why Pigmentation Requires Medical Assessment

Not all pigmentation is the same — and treating the wrong type can worsen the condition. Aggressive treatments or inappropriate products may increase inflammation, deepen pigmentation, or cause rebound darkening.

At The Adare Clinic, pigmentation is assessed through:

• Detailed medical and sun exposure history
• Clinical examination
• Dermoscopic assessment when required
• Review of hormonal and inflammatory triggers

This ensures treatment is precise, safe, and effective.

How Pigmentation Is Treated at The Adare Clinic

Pigmentation treatment is always individualised and often involves a combination of therapies. The focus is on treating the cause, controlling inflammation, and supporting the skin barrier.

1. Dermatology-Led Consultation

Every treatment plan begins with a comprehensive consultation to:

• Identify the type of pigmentation
• Assess skin type and sensitivity
• Review previous treatments
• Establish realistic expectations

Education is a key part of this process, particularly for chronic conditions such as melasma.

2. Medical-Grade Topical Treatments

Doctors may prescribe targeted topical treatments designed to:

• Regulate melanin production
• Reduce inflammation
• Improve skin cell turnover

These treatments are introduced gradually to minimise irritation and protect the skin barrier.

3. Strict Sun Protection

Sun exposure is the single most important factor in pigmentation recurrence. All patients are advised on:

• Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use
• Correct application and reapplication
• Protective clothing and behavioural measures

Without sun protection, pigmentation treatments are unlikely to succeed.

4. Skin Barrier Repair and Maintenance

Inflamed or compromised skin is more prone to pigmentation. Treatment includes guidance on:

• Gentle cleansers
• Barrier-supportive moisturisers
• Avoidance of harsh exfoliants or irritants

A healthy skin barrier improves treatment tolerance and outcomes.

5. Procedural Treatments (When Appropriate)

Once pigmentation is stable and inflammation controlled, certain in-clinic treatments may be considered. These are carefully selected based on skin type and pigmentation pattern and are never rushed.

Procedural treatments are always combined with medical skincare and sun protection to reduce the risk of rebound pigmentation. The Adare Clinic offers a variety of lasers, Radio Frequency treatments together with Chemical Peels in the treatment of Pigmentation.

6. Long-Term Monitoring and Prevention

Pigmentation often requires ongoing management. Follow-up allows for:

• Monitoring progress
• Adjusting treatment plans
• Early intervention if pigmentation returns

Patients are supported in maintaining results long term.

What Results Can Patients Expect?

With appropriate medical care, patients can expect:

• Gradual lightening of pigmentation
• More even skin tone
• Reduced recurrence over time
• Improved skin confidence

Pigmentation improvement is progressive, not instant. Consistency and patience are essential.

What Pigmentation Treatment Is Not

At The Adare Clinic:

• Pigmentation is not treated with aggressive, one-size-fits-all solutions
• Over-exfoliation and irritation are avoided
• Cosmetic camouflage is not considered treatment

Care is always grounded in medical evidence and skin safety.

When to Seek Professional Advice

You should seek assessment if you notice:

• New or changing pigmented lesions
• Pigmentation that worsens despite skincare
• Pigmentation following acne or inflammation
• Uneven skin tone affecting confidence

Early intervention improves outcomes and reduces chronicity.

Why Choose The Adare Clinic?

Patients trust The Adare Clinic for pigmentation care because of:

• Doctor-led dermatology expertise
• Accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment
• Evidence-based approach
• Focus on prevention and long-term skin health

Pigmentation is treated with care, precision, and clinical responsibility.

Pigmentation is complex and often misunderstood. Effective treatment depends on understanding why pigmentation has developed and addressing it at its source.

At The Adare Clinic, pigmentation is managed through expert diagnosis, structured treatment, and ongoing support — helping patients achieve clearer, more even-toned skin safely and sustainably.