Hyperpigmentation — dark patches, uneven tone and the marks left behind after spots — is one of the most common concerns we treat. On deeper skin tones it is very treatable, but it needs care, because the wrong treatment can make it worse.
Why deeper skin needs a careful approach
Skin with more melanin responds to irritation and inflammation by producing more pigment. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. An aggressive peel, too much heat or over-exfoliation can leave behind new dark marks that take months to fade.
What helps
- Daily SPF. Without it, any treatment is working against the sun.
- Well-chosen chemical peels. A course of gentler peels is usually safer and more effective than one strong one.
- Microneedling, carried out carefully, to improve texture and tone.
- The right home skincare, introduced gradually so the skin stays calm.
What to avoid
- Picking or squeezing spots, which can leave marks long after the spot has gone.
- Harsh scrubs and stacking several strong acids at once.
- Treatments from anyone who has not assessed your skin type properly.
Be patient
Pigmentation fades gradually. Most people need a course of treatments over several months, with consistent skincare at home. Photographs taken in the same light at each visit make it easier to see the progress.
Not sure where to start? Book a Skin Health Assessment and we will look properly at your skin, explain what is happening and write you a plan — whether or not you ever book a treatment.