What Causes Pigmentation — and What Can You Do About It?
Uneven skin tone is one of the most common concerns we see at Platinum Cosmetics. Whether it’s freckles, age spots, post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH), or general discolouration, pigmentation can affect confidence and be difficult to manage without expert care.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes pigmentation, how it behaves in the skin, and what treatments can help — especially for those in Australia’s high-UV climate.
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to the colour of your skin, which is determined by melanin. This natural pigment is produced by cells called melanocytes. When melanocytes become overactive or uneven in their distribution, it results in patches of skin that appear darker — this is what we commonly refer to as pigmentation.
Pigmentation can take several forms:
Sun damage (solar lentigines or “age spots”)
Melasma (often hormonal and symmetrical)
PIH (dark marks left after inflammation or injury)
Freckles (usually genetic, but worsened by sun exposure)
What causes pigmentation to appear or worsen?
In most cases, pigmentation is triggered by UV exposure — even incidental or daily exposure without burning. However, it can also be caused or exacerbated by:
Hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy or contraceptive use)
Skin trauma or injury
Heat and inflammation
Genetics
Incorrect skincare use or over-exfoliation
This is why many people find their pigmentation gets worse in summer, or after activities that raise skin temperature like exercise or saunas.
Can pigmentation be prevented?
While you can’t control all causes of pigmentation (such as your genetics or hormones), you can take strong preventive action — and it starts with sun protection. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF is the single most effective way to prevent and control pigmentation. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can penetrate the skin and stimulate melanin production.
Pairing sunscreen with antioxidants such as SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic can also help reduce UV-induced damage and oxidative stress — both key drivers of pigmentation.
How do we treat pigmentation at Platinum Cosmetics?
We approach pigmentation holistically, combining professional skin treatments with targeted home care. Some of our most effective in-clinic options include:
Fotona Laser Treatments
Our Fotona laser platform includes fractional and non-ablative treatments that target pigment in the deeper layers of the skin. These treatments help reduce discolouration while stimulating collagen production for overall skin rejuvenation. They’re ideal for sun spots, PIH, and melasma in carefully selected cases.
Facials with Brightening Actives
For more superficial pigmentation or as a maintenance option between lasers, our facials include customised protocols with ingredients like vitamin C, lactic acid, and botanical brighteners to gently exfoliate and lighten pigmentation.
Advanced Home Skincare
We recommend clients use a home care regimen tailored to their pigmentation type. Some of our most effective products include:
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense – targets dark spots and uneven tone without harsh ingredients.
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF – a vitamin C serum ideal for oily or pigmented skin types.
SkinCeuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF 50 – combines sun protection with brightening ingredients for all-day coverage.
You can explore more through our Skin Care range or speak to us in clinic about a personalised plan.
What to expect with treatment
Pigmentation can be stubborn — especially melasma — and often requires a combination of consistent in-clinic treatments and strict home care. Results take time, and ongoing maintenance is essential. At Platinum Cosmetics, we always set realistic expectations and customise our approach to suit your skin type, Fitzpatrick level, and lifestyle.
Our priority is always to treat the skin conservatively and avoid triggering rebound pigmentation, which can happen when treatments are too aggressive or the skin is not supported properly.
Book a consultation in Port Melbourne
If you’re dealing with pigmentation and unsure what to do next, we recommend starting with a consultation at our Port Melbourne clinic. We’ll assess your skin in detail and guide you toward the most effective treatment plan — without hype or unrealistic promises.
Learn more about Skin Rejuvenation
Explore Fotona Laser Treatments
We’re here to help you feel confident in your skin — every step of the way.