What is pigmentation treatments?
Assessment first: identifying the likely type of pigmentation and any contributing factors such as sun exposure, hormones, medication or previous inflammation.
Where appropriate, light-based or resurfacing treatments are used to target surface pigment.
Homecare and daily sun protection are a core part of any pigmentation plan, not an optional extra.
What can it help with?
- Sun-related surface pigmentation, where suitable
- Uneven skin tone
- Post-inflammatory marks, where assessment supports treatment
Browse related concerns: pigmentation in Durham, dull skin in Durham, skin rejuvenation in Durham.
Treatment areas
- Face
- Neck and décolletage
- Hands
- Other areas confirmed at consultation
What happens during treatment?
- 01Detailed consultation to identify the type of pigmentation.
- 02Patch test where a light-based treatment is planned.
- 03Treatment delivered according to the agreed plan.
- 04Homecare and sun protection guidance, with review appointments.
Consultation
A consultation is essential. Certain pigmentation types — melasma in particular — can be aggravated by heat and light, so an accurate assessment matters more than the device used.
What does it feel like?
Depends on the treatment chosen; explained in full before you decide to proceed.
Treatment time
Varies by treatment and area.
Recommended course
Pigmentation is usually managed over a course alongside homecare rather than resolved in a single session.
Downtime
Varies by treatment. Treated surface pigment may darken temporarily before flaking away.
Results
Pigmentation is managed rather than cured. Improvement is possible for many people, but recurrence is common without consistent sun protection, and results vary considerably between individuals.
Individual results vary. No outcome can be guaranteed, and expectations are discussed honestly at consultation.
Who may not be suitable?
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active infection, broken skin or inflammation in the treatment area
- Certain medications, including some that increase light sensitivity
- A history of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
- Some medical conditions or recent procedures affecting the treatment area
- Recent sun exposure, sunbeds or fake tan
- Photosensitising medication
- Pigmentation types where light-based treatment carries a risk of worsening the concern
This list is general guidance only. Individual suitability is always determined at consultation, where we review your medical history, medication and skin in person.
Before your appointment
- Avoid sun exposure, sunbeds and fake tan for the period advised.
- Bring details of any medication or hormonal treatment.
- Follow any pre-treatment homecare recommended.
Aftercare
- Apply high-factor broad-spectrum SPF daily, all year round.
- Avoid picking flaking pigment.
- Continue the recommended homecare consistently.
- Attend review appointments so the plan can be adjusted.
Price
Price on consultation
Frequently asked questions
Can pigmentation be removed permanently?
No treatment can guarantee permanent removal. Pigmentation often improves with the right plan, but it can return — particularly with sun exposure or hormonal triggers.
Is laser suitable for melasma?
Melasma is complex and can be aggravated by heat and light. It requires careful assessment, and light-based treatment is not always appropriate.