Skin Concerns -
Pigment and Melasma
Pigmentation concerns are common and can take many different forms, from age spots and sun damage to more complex conditions such as melasma. While these marks are not harmful, they can affect confidence and make skin appear uneven or aged. Understanding the difference between pigmentation types is important, as each requires a tailored treatment approach.
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< Sun damage and age-related pigmentation (also called solar lentigines or age spots) are caused by prolonged UV exposure. These are typically well-defined, darker patches that develop gradually over time, most often on the face, chest, and hands. They respond well to treatments such as laser, IPL, and chemical peels.
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Melasma, on the other hand, is a chronic pigmentation condition triggered by hormonal changes, genetics, or sun exposure. It usually appears as larger, symmetrical patches of brown or grey discolouration, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Unlike sun damage, melasma can be more stubborn and prone to recurrence, so management requires a careful, long-term approach >
Pigment Management Treatment
IPL Targeted Pigment Spot Treatment
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is an effective targeted treatment for reducing unwanted pigment spots such as sun damage, age spots, and freckles. The light energy is absorbed by the excess melanin in the skin, heating and breaking it down into smaller fragments. These fragments then rise to the surface and naturally shed away, leaving the skin clearer and more even in tone.
This treatment is not a full-face rejuvenation — it focuses only on the specific pigmented spots that are of concern. Over time, treated areas fade significantly or disappear, helping to restore a more uniform complexion.
Or why not upgrade your pigment spot treatment to a full-face IPL Skin Rejuvenation for all-over clarity, brightness, and anti-ageing benefits. Pricing - From £115
Treatment Time:
15 minutes
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Downtime:
Minimal — the treated pigment usually darkens before naturally flaking off over 7–10 days
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Recommended Frequency:
Often 1–3 treatments are enough, spaced 3–4 weeks apart
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Pricing - From £35
A patch test is needed before treatment. Avoid sun exposure 30 days prior and after; use SPF daily
Chemical Peels for Pigmentation - Chemical peels safely treat sun damage, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone by gently exfoliating the outer layer of pigmented cells. This stimulates renewal, regulates melanin, and gradually brightens the complexion.Also a great option for maintenance post-laser pigment removal — try chemical peels monthly or bi-monthly to maintain results. See our 'Advanced Facials' page for more information on chemical peels.
Melasma Management Treatment
Laser Skin Rejuvenation – Fractional Laser for Melasma
Fractional laser is a gentle yet effective option for managing melasma. By creating microscopic channels in the skin, it stimulates renewal and encourages more even pigment distribution without the risk of triggering flare-ups. Over time, this softens pigmentation patches, refines texture, and promotes a clearer complexion.
Treatment Time:
45 minutes
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Downtime:
Minimal — mild redness may occur for a few hours, and treated blood vessels may temporarily darken before fading
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Recommended Frequency:
A course of 3–6 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart is usually recommended, with maintenance sessions as needed
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Pricing - from £95
A patch test is needed before treatment. Avoid sun exposure 30 days prior and after; use SPF daily
Pulsed Dye Laser Rosacea Management
Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) is a highly targeted treatment for managing rosacea-related redness and visible blood vessels. The laser works by delivering concentrated light that is absorbed by the enlarged blood vessels under the skin. This light energy turns into heat, safely collapsing the vessels without damaging the surrounding tissue.
PDL is particularly effective at reducing persistent redness, flushing, and superficial broken veins caused by rosacea. Over a course of treatments, it helps to calm inflammation, fade visible vessels, and restore a more even skin tone.
Treatment Time:
60 minutes
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Downtime:
Minimal — some mild redness, swelling, or temporary bruising may occur and usually resolves within a few days
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Recommended Frequency:
Typically 3–6 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions as needed for ongoing rosacea management
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Pricing - from £125
A patch test is needed before treatment. Avoid sun exposure 30 days prior and after; use SPF daily
Chemical Peels for Melasma - Chemical peels are an excellent option for gradually and safely managing melasma. By gently exfoliating the outer layer of pigmented cells, they stimulate renewal, regulate melanin activity, and slowly brighten the complexion without the risk of triggering flare-ups. For best results, clients usually build up over time to a Level 6 glycolic peel, which is particularly effective for treating melasma. Peels can also be used as a maintenance treatment after laser pigment removal, with monthly or bi-monthly sessions helping to maintain results and keep pigmentation under control. See our 'Advanced Facials' page for more information on chemical peels.
