Age Spots, Freckles, Pigmentation and Poikiloderma
The most effective approach to treating pigmentation and dark spots starts with an accurate diagnosis. Understanding the type of pigmentation and what’s causing it is key to choosing the right treatment. At Scars & Lasers, this helps us tailor dermatologist-guided solutions that not only improve skin clarity but also help prevent future discolouration.
Pigmentation and uneven skin tone are common concerns we see across all ages and skin types. These changes happen when melanin—the pigment that gives skin its colour—is produced in excess or unevenly distributed. Triggers can range from sun exposure and hormones to skin inflammation and genetics.
The Science Behind It
Pigmentation issues like age spots and freckles are caused by changes in melanin production—the pigment that gives skin its colour. Here’s how it works:
- Melanin Overproduction: Your skin produces melanin to protect itself, especially after sun exposure. When it produces too much in one area, dark spots can form.
- UV Damage: Repeated sun exposure over time triggers excess melanin and leads to sunspots (also called solar lentigines or age spots).
- Hormonal Changes: Conditions like melasma are linked to hormone shifts (e.g. pregnancy or contraceptive use), which can overstimulate pigment cells.
- Inflammation Response: After acne, burns, or skin irritation, the skin may produce more melanin in the healing areas—this is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Genetic Factors: Freckles are often inherited and tend to appear in fair-skinned individuals with sun exposure.
Understanding these causes helps our dermatologists at Scars & Lasers tailor the right treatments to fade pigmentation safely and effectively.
Treatment at a Glance
| Treatment Type | Number of Sessions | Procedure Time | Typical Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fraxel® Dual Laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| Picosecond laser | 2 - 5+ sessions | 10 - 30 minutes | 3 - 5+ days |
| BBL HERO™ | 2 - 4 sessions | 20 - 40 minutes | 2 - 3 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
At Scars & Lasers, we understand that pigmentation can appear for many different reasons. Most pigmentation issues are due to an overproduction or uneven distribution of melanin—the pigment that gives skin its colour.
Here are the common causes we see:
- Sun Exposure: UV rays stimulate melanin production, often resulting in sunspots, freckles, and uneven skin tone.
- Ageing: As we age, our skin’s ability to regulate melanin declines, often leading to the development of age spots and irregular pigmentation.
- Hormonal Changes: Conditions like melasma can arise during pregnancy or from using hormonal medications like contraceptive pills.
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark marks may appear after acne, burns, or skin irritation, especially in those with darker skin tones.
- Genetics: Some individuals are simply more prone to freckles, age spots, and pigmentation due to their genetic makeup.
Important ACC & Treatment Disclaimer
ACC funding eligibility is determined by the Accident Compensation Corporation on a case-by-case basis. Approval is dependent on injury acceptance, clinical indication, and ACC policy at the time of application. Not all treatments offered at Scars & Lasers are ACC-funded. Private fees may apply for unfunded components of care.
Learn more about ACC IncidentsRefined pigmentation correction through specialist-led laser and energy-based treatments — restoring clarity, even tone, and skin confidence.
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