First, what is Pigmentation anyway?
Pigmentation refers to the natural colouring of our skin, eyes, and hair; largely influenced by melanin, a pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin. When melanin production becomes uneven, pigmentation disorders can occur. These typically fall into two main categories: Hyperpigmentation, which shows up as dark patches from increased melanin production and Hypopigmentation, lighter patches from reduced melanin production.
Pigmentation can be caused by many factors, with the most common causes including:
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Sun exposure – UV rays trigger melanin production, resulting in sunspots and age spots
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Ageing – natural skin changes can lead to uneven tone
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Hormonal changes – pregnancy, birth control, and menopause can trigger melasma
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Inflammation or trauma – such as acne, burns, or cuts, can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
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Medical factors – Certain health conditions like Addison’s disease or diabetes, and medications such as anti-inflammatories (like ibuprofen), some antibiotics, or blood pressure treatments can make melasma worse. Hormonal changes from HRT or the contraceptive pill can also be significant contributors.
Which Treatment is Right for you based on your pigmentation?
If you’re feeling like your pigmentation is reducing your confidence, there are some options for treatment. Not all pigmentation is created equal, and treatments aren’t either, which is why we specialise in advanced pigmentation treatments that are heavily tailored to you and your skin.
Before choosing a treatment, we need to understand what type of pigmentation we’re dealing with, how this will affect your skin type, lifestyle, tolerance for downtime, and how quickly you want to see results. Of course, we all like quick fixes, but sometimes it depends on your skin and how persistent your pigmentation is.
At Precision Skin, we take the time to understand your goals before recommending the best option. Some clients come with a treatment in mind, while others want guidance, and that’s where a personalised consultation is key.
Often, real results come from combining in-clinic treatment with ongoing maintenance.
Here’s a breakdown of the top-performing pigmentation treatments offered at Precision Skin:
Option 1: Cosmelan
Best for: Pigmentation of all types (changed from deep & mixed melasma) sunspots, age spots, uneven skin tone and dullness. High efficacy for pigmentation control, but relapse is possible without maintenance.
Downtime: High
Results: Rapid, visible in 1–2 weeks, with full results in 6–12 weeks
Procedure:
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In-clinic mud-like mask is worn for 8–12 hours
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7+ days of visible downtime (peeling, redness, tightness)
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Requires commitment to downtime and recovery
Why it works:
Cosmelan is a powerful depigmenting treatment that interrupts melanin production. It’s ideal for those seeking faster results and can tolerate a week or two of peeling and sensitivity.
Option 2: MeLine Peel
Best for: Mild to moderate pigmentation, melasma, clients seeking shorter downtime.
Downtime: Moderate (3–7 days of redness and flaking)
Results: Up to 95% effective for hyperpigmentation
Procedure:
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A clear peel mask is applied in clinic (which you wash off at home after 2 hours), this is repeated in 4 weeks plus home care over 8 weeks
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Redness and flaking typically begin 48 hours later
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Two treatments spaced four weeks apart, supported by homecare
Why it works:
The MeLine Peel offers a gentler approach to pigmentation treatment. It’s still highly effective, and clients like the lighter downtime and clear mask format.
The Meline Peel offers a highly effective, yet gentler approach to treating pigmentation. It delivers impressive results more gradually and with less down time, making it a popular choice for clients wanting a more comfortable recovery without compromising the outcome.
Option 3: MeLine I.D. (Dermal Needling + Depigmenting Serum)
Best for: Stubborn pigmentation, evening out skin tone and clients who want zero peeling
Downtime: Minimal (1–3 days of tightness or dryness)
Results: Effective when used on its own or as a follow-up to a peel
Procedure:
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Microneedling with targeted pigmentation actives
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No peeling, just mild redness or dryness
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Three sessions, four weeks apart
Why it works:
This is an excellent low-downtime option that targets deeper pigmentation. As a bonus, the needling stimulates collagen and improves overall skin quality, texture and glow.
So which pigmentation treatment should you choose?
The truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all. Your skin type, pigmentation cause, lifestyle, and goals all influence which path will work best.
That’s why we always start with a detailed consultation and skin analysis. From there, we create a plan that suits you, whether that’s Cosmelan, MeLine, chemical peels, or a combination.
The right treatment really comes down to your skin goals, how much downtime you can manage, your budget, and expected results. At Precision Skin, we take all of this into account to help you find the most effective plan for your skin.
If you’re ready to get on top of your pigmentation concerns safely and effectively, book a consultation to get started, and let’s uncover your most even and clear skin yet!
