Let’s talk about [pigmentation]
As much as we all love the sunshine, summer can leave behind more than just happy memories and holiday snaps. For many, it's also the season when pigmentation concerns, like dark spots, uneven skin tone, and melasma, become more noticeable.
Why Pigmentation appears during and after summer
Pigmentation is your skin's natural way of protecting itself from UV rays. When exposed to the sun, your skin produces more melanin to shield deeper layers from damage. Whilst this is a protective mechanism, it can lead to visible changes, such as:
Sunspots/age spots: small, dark patches that develop after prolonged UV exposure.
Melasma: Often seen as larger, symmetrical patches usually triggered by a mix of sun, hormones, and genetics.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: dark marks that appear after breakouts, irritation, or injury, which can darken further in summer sun.
What you can do about it
The good news is pigmentation doesn't have to be permanent. With the right combination of skincare and treatments, it can be effectively reduced and managed long term.
Here is an example of the reduction in pigmentation for one of our customers using Alumier's pigmentation products and combining them with monthly Geneo facials.
PIGMENTATION TREATMENTS OPTIONS AT SKINLAB
⚡ Sun spot removal with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
The quickest and most effective way to reduce/remove pigmentations spots in 1-2 sessions.
How it works: Light energy is absorbed by the pigment, which then breaks down into tiny particles. Over the following days, the spots darken before naturally flaking away, revealing a clearer, more even skin underneath.
🍂 Chemical peels for Melasma
Steering clear of heat based treatments for Melasma is key! Chemical peels are a great way to exfoliate and renew the skin, increasing cell turnover. THE RIGHT PEEL MATTERS!
Not all peels are suitable for melasma, aggressive or deep peels may actually worsen pigmentation by causing inflammation. We offer a specific pigmentation peel by AlumierMD launching soon! See below for further information.
✨ Glowing skin
Platinum Hydrafacial - The ultimate "Glow Getter" facial, using targeted serums to brighten and lighten the skin.
None of the above are worth embarking on if you are not committed to wearing SPF ALL YEAR ROUND! After all, it is lack of sun protection that is predominantly responsible for all the above.
Pigmentation is one of those skin concerns that tends to flare up in summer, heat, sun exposure, and even hormonal shifts can make dark spots more visible. While there are things you can do to help protect your skin through the warmer months (think daily SPF, antioxidants, and hydration), the best time to treat pigmentation is during autumn and winter, when your skin is no longer tanned or exposed to intense UV.
Now’s a great time to start planning ahead, if you’re considering pigmentation treatments, we recommend booking your consultation and patch test in advance, ready for when the cooler weather kicks in and those holidays are behind you.
AlumierMD offers a targeted and effective range for treating pigmentation, including melasma, sun damage, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Here are their top recommended products for tackling uneven skin tone:
4. AHA Renewal Serum
Exfoliating serum with lactic acid and hyaluronic acid.
Gently resurfaces the skin to help lift surface pigmentation and improve absorption of other brightening products.
5. Bright & Clear Solution
A liquid exfoliator with lactic acid, salicylic acid, and niacinamide.
Helps prevent buildup and clears away dull, pigmented skin cells.
6. Ultimate Boost Serum
While not a direct brightening product, it supports skin hydration and repair, which is essential when using active ingredients like retinol and acids.
7. Clear Shield or Sheer Hydration SPF 40
Daily SPF is non-negotiable when treating pigmentation.
Both formulas contain physical (mineral) sunscreen and antioxidants to prevent UV-triggered pigment formation.
1. EvenTone Brightening Serum
A powerful, non-hydroquinone serum that targets multiple pigment pathways.
Contains ingredients like arbutin, licorice root, and white shitake mushroom.
Great for all skin types and safe for long-term use.
2. Intellibright Complex
Designed to reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration.
Features kojic acid and arbutin for a naturally brighter complexion.
Ideal for stubborn pigmentation or melasma.
3. Retinol Resurfacing Serums (0.25, 0.5 or 1.0)
Encourages cell turnover and reduces the appearance of pigmentation over time.
Helps fade marks while improving skin texture and tone.
Choose your strength based on skin tolerance and consultation.
To book a skin consultation to discuss pigmentation and these products, or to book for a laser pigmentation consultation and patch test, click on the button below 👇