What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to the colouring of the skin. When pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) become overactive or damaged, they can create uneven patches or spots on the skin’s surface, often darker than the surrounding area.
Pigmentation concerns are extremely common in Australia due to high UV exposure. Pigmentation is usually harmless. Any new, changing or unusual spot should be checked by a GP.
Types of pigmentation concerns
Understanding the different types of pigmentation helps with accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning:
Sunspots (Solar Lentigines):
Flat, brown spots that appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands, and décolletage. Commonly referred to as age spots or liver spots. These are caused by cumulative UV exposure and often increase with age.
Melasma:
Brown or grey-brown patches that usually appear on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or chin. Often linked to hormonal changes, pregnancy, or contraceptive use and worsens with sun exposure.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH):
Dark spots that appear after an inflammatory skin issue such as acne, eczema, or injury has healed. More common in people with medium to darker skin tones due to increased melanocyte activity.
Freckles (Ephelides):
Small, flat brown spots that are usually genetic. They become darker or more visible with sun exposure and are most common in people with fair skin.
What causes pigmentation?
Cause #1 – Sun exposure
UV radiation stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin, leading to uneven tone, sunspots, or freckles. This is the most common trigger for pigmentation in Australia.
Cause #2 – Hormonal changes
Fluctuations during pregnancy, perimenopause, or with hormonal contraceptives can lead to melasma or worsen existing pigmentation.
Cause #3 – Skin trauma or inflammation
Conditions such as acne, eczema, burns, or picking at the skin can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), especially in darker skin tones.
Cause #4 – Genetics
Freckles and general pigment sensitivity may be inherited. Your skin type plays a role in how you react to sun, trauma, and inflammation.
Cause #5 – Certain medications or products
Some medications, such as certain antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs, and harsh skincare products may increase sun sensitivity or cause pigmentary changes.
Related concerns: Pigmentation on the Hands, Redness and Rosacea and Poikiloderma.
Why do I have pigmentation and others don’t?
Factor #1 – Skin Tone
Darker skin types naturally produce more melanin and are more prone to Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) and uneven tone.
Factor #2 – Hormonal sensitivity
Some people’s skin reacts more strongly to hormone fluctuations, increasing melasma risk.
Factor #3 – Sun exposure habits
Some skin types are more reactive and produce excess pigment from inflammation or injury.
Factor #4 – Environment
Living in Australia with year-round UV radiation increases the risk of visible pigmentation.
Living with pigmentation
Pigmentation is usually harmless. Some people notice:
- Seasonal changes: Patches often darken in summer or after time in the sun.
- Marks after skin injury: Spots from acne, eczema or burns can take months to fade.
- Hormonal changes: Melasma can appear or change during pregnancy or with hormonal contraception.
Some people are not bothered by pigmentation. Others choose to seek advice. Any new, changing or unusual spot should be checked by your GP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What treatment options are there for pigmentation in Australia?
A: It depends on the type of pigmentation. Melasma is often managed with topical creams and sun protection, while peels, IPL or laser may be discussed for sunspots and other pigmentation. A professional skin assessment is important to work out the cause and suitable options.
Q: Will pigmentation come back after treatment?
A: Some types, especially melasma, can return with even minimal UV exposure. Long-term success depends on daily sun protection and maintenance skincare.
Q: Are pigmentation treatments safe?
A: All medical procedures carry risks. A consultation with a qualified Australian healthcare practitioner or dermal therapist will help you understand which options, if any, suit your skin type and condition.
Q: Can pigmentation be permanently removed?
A: Certain types, like sunspots, may be reduced or removed in some people. Results vary. Others, like melasma, often require ongoing management rather than a permanent solution.
Q: Are pigmentation treatments covered by Medicare in Australia?
A: Cosmetic pigmentation treatments are not covered. If the pigmentation is related to a medical condition, some rebates may be available. Your practitioner can advise.
Treatment options and finding a practitioner
Pigmentation is common and usually harmless, and you do not need to treat it. Daily sun protection is the most important step to stop it darkening. Have any new or changing spot checked by your GP, as some skin cancers can look like pigmentation.
Some people choose to explore treatment. A practitioner may discuss options depending on your skin, health history and goals.
Non-surgical consultations
- Skin assessment consultation
- Laser pigmentation consultation
- IPL consultation
- Chemical peels consultation
In Australia, these must be completed by a qualified doctor, nurse, or dentist.
All treatments carry risks, which can include redness, peeling, irritation, darker or lighter patches and, rarely, burns or scarring. A registered practitioner will explain the risks, recovery time and costs at your consultation. Results vary between people.
Please note that specific treatment details cannot be provided here to comply with Australian advertising regulations.
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