How to treat pigmentation safely in all skin tones

Pigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns we treat at No.23 Skin. It can appear as lingering marks after acne breakouts, sun-induced dark spots or patches of discolouration that simply won’t budge.

It’s often blamed on one cause, such as sun damage, hormones, inflammation or ageing, but in reality, it’s often a combination. That’s why effective treatment requires precision, not guesswork.

At No.23 Skin, our expert dermatologists focus not just on brighter, clearer skin, but on restoring skin health, function and longevity. They know how to treat pigmentation properly, and we tailor every plan to your personal needs to deliver results safely and confidently, whether that’s prescription medication or advanced laser treatments.

Understanding Pigmentation: What Is It?

The pigment that gives our skin its colour is called melanin. When melanin is overproduced by our body, uneven, dark marks or patches can show up on the skin’s surface. However, it can look completely different depending on your skin tone. 

• Fair & Light Skin Tones – often appear as brown age spots, freckles, or sun spots. It can often be more obvious after sun exposure
• Olive & Medium Skin Tones – can develop from inflammation (also known as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation), hormonal changes, or excessive sun exposure. It can often appear as dark patches
• Deep & Dark Skin Tones –  pigmentation tends to be stubborn, brown, grey, or black patches or spots that are typically more widespread and harder to shift 

No matter your skin tone, the key to treating it is a personalised plan that works for you and your lifestyle. At No.23 Skin, we take a cautious, results-driven approach to pigmentation treatments.

We always prioritise safety and efficacy, tailoring your treatment plan to only what your skin needs, starting with a 1-2-1 consultation to allow us to assess your skin properly and leave you feeling informed, supported and armed with a detailed plan to improve your skin health. 

Types Of Pigmentation

There are 3 different types of pigmentation. Here are the main types we see in the clinic:

1. Melasma: Often appearing as symmetrical brown or grey patches, melasma tends to show up across the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Hormones, sun exposure, and genetics all play a role, and it’s especially common in pregnancy and with contraceptive use.

2. Age Spots / Sun Spots: These flat, brown spots develop over time from sun exposure and become more prevalent as we age. They’re typically superficial but can be quite stubborn if left untreated.

3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): PIH typically develops after skin inflammation, which can be from acne, waxing, or injuries. It’s especially common and persistent in darker skin tones.

How to Treat Pigmentation At No.23 Skin

At No.23 Skin, we offer a curated range of safe, evidence-based treatments designed to target excess melanin and treat pigmentation at its source. From advanced laser technologies to microneedling and chemical peels, our treatments are selected by our dermatologists for their proven, long-term results.

Sciton Broadband Light (BBL) and microneedling are two of our most effective options. We offer them because they work – and because they can be performed safely across a range of skin tones when delivered by our experienced practitioners. All our skin health consultations for laser treatments are complimentary so we can be sure to meet your needs effectively. 

Check out our treatment options here. 

Sciton Broadband Light (BBL)  

£450 | per area
£995 | for 3 sessions

The gold standard for treating pigmentation is BBL, which uses gentle light beams to bring dark spots to the surface and remove them. It’s perfect for those who want instant results and minimal downtime. 

This treatment includes a complimentary consultation, thoughtful aftercare and follow-up support. 

Downtime: Mild redness can occur for up to 24 hours. For two weeks after your appointment, we advise staying out of the sun, wearing a hat, and regularly applying an SPF50 sunscreen.

Book now | Contact us

SkinPen Microneedling 

£255 | per area

Microneedling improves texture and can help reduce superficial pigmentation. We recommend a course of 3 treatments, 4-6 weeks apart, to see noticeable skin improvement. It’s completely personalised to your skin, is provided with numbing cream and is safe for all skin types.

This treatment includes a complimentary and comprehensive consultation and skin assessment, and considered aftercare with our experienced practitioners. 

Downtime: Some patients may experience redness, mild swelling or sensitivity for 24 to 48 hours following treatment. 

Book now | Contact us

Chemical Peels  

From £150 

Chemical peels help accelerate cellular turnover, sloughing away pigmented cells and revealing brighter skin. If you have small amounts of pigmentation and want a lighter treatment that’s still suitable for all skin types, this is for you. 

This treatment includes a comprehensive consultation, thorough skin assessment and expert aftercare.

Downtime: In most cases, you can expect mild redness and skin peeling for up to 72 hours after.

Book now | Contact us

Where appropriate, our dermatologists may also prescribe medical-grade topical treatments, including prescription lightening creams and carefully formulated alternatives to hydroquinone. These are often combined with in-clinic treatments to maintain results and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Daily, year-round SPF is a non-negotiable part of any pigmentation treatment plan, helping to protect the skin and prevent dark patches caused by sun exposure.

Your Best Results Come From A Personalised Plan on How to Treat Pigmentation

Not all pigmentation is the same, and just as importantly, not all skin tones respond to treatments in the same way. That’s why our approach at No.23 Skin is deeply personalised: we assess your skin, discuss your goals, and create a plan that’s both effective and safe.

Ready to get started? If you want to discuss what treatment is right for you, give us a call on 0203 9411 815 to book your complimentary consultation with one of our practitioners. Set on a treatment already? Book your appointment online now.

We’ll guide you to the right solution, with no pressure and complete transparency – always.

Helen
CoFounder
No. 23 Skin
hc@23skin.co.uk

02039411815

NB: whilst we do out best to provide the best information online, there is no substitute for in-person assessment. This blog is for information only and if you have any concerns about your skin, please contact us, or your GP. Thank you.