Pigmentation vs. Redness: What’s the Difference — and Why It Matters for Your Skin
At a glance, pigmentation and redness might seem like the same thing. They both change the colour of your skin, and both can make you feel self-conscious — but they’re caused by completely different processes.
At Platinum Cosmetics, understanding whether you’re dealing with redness or pigmentation is the first step in choosing the right treatment. Here’s how to tell the difference — and what we do about each concern.
What Is Pigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to discolouration caused by melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its colour. When too much melanin is produced in certain areas, it can lead to:
Freckles or sun spots
Melasma (hormonal pigmentation)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (marks left after breakouts or trauma)
Pigmentation can range from light brown to deep, patchy discolouration. It often shows up on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or jawline — and is usually more noticeable after sun exposure.
What Causes Pigmentation?
UV exposure
Hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy, contraception)
Inflammation or injury to the skin
Genetics
What Is Redness?
Redness, on the other hand, is usually vascular. That means it’s caused by blood vessels near the surface of the skin becoming more visible or inflamed.
Common causes of redness include:
Broken capillaries (telangiectasia)
Rosacea or chronic flushing
Post-treatment or post-exercise flushing
Sensitivity or irritation
Unlike pigmentation, redness often appears pink, red, or purple — and it may change throughout the day, especially in response to temperature, emotions, or certain foods.
Why the Difference Matters
Redness and pigmentation respond to different treatments. What works for one won’t necessarily help the other — and may even make it worse.
For example:
Exfoliating peels or brightening agents are great for pigmentation, but may irritate red, sensitive skin
Vascular laser treatments can reduce redness but won’t impact melanin-based pigmentation
That’s why a professional diagnosis is so important — especially if you’ve been using products that haven’t worked, or have made things worse.
How We Treat Pigmentation and Redness
For pigmentation, we may recommend:
Gentle skin peels
Targeted skin care with ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide
For redness, we typically use:
Fotona Nd:YAG laser to treat visible vessels
Calming, anti-inflammatory facials
Barrier repair and rosacea-friendly home care routines
Sometimes, clients present with both redness and pigmentation — and in those cases, we build a treatment plan that respects both conditions and treats them in stages.
Not Sure What You’re Dealing With?
The easiest way to find out is through a professional consultation. We’ll assess your skin under proper lighting, take a detailed history, and identify whether your concern is vascular, pigment-related, or both.
Book a consultation at our Port Melbourne clinic and let us help you make sense of your skin — so you can finally get the results you’re looking for, with the right support.