Freckles, age spots, sun spots, liver spots or simply 'pigmentation'; whatever name you may have for it, irregular skin discolouration is a common and sometimes distressing problem caused by various factors. It can appear from a very young age, or later on, generally triggered by hormonal changes, acne, overexposure to UV radiation, some inflammatory skin disorders and other environmental factors.

Pigmentation refers to changes in the melanin (pigment) of your skin, it's important to note there are different types and they do not all respond to the same treatments. Because of this, receiving the correct diagnosis for the type of pigmentation you’re experiencing is essential if you are going to benefit from treatment.

COMMON TYPES OF PIGMENTATION

FRECKLES: The most common type of skin pigmentation, freckles develop after repeated exposure to sunlight, particularly if you have a fair complexion. They appear darker during the sunny months and fade in the winter. Heredity factors also influences freckling.

SOLAR LENTIGINES (Liver or Sun Spots): These are pigmented spots with a clearly defined edge, may occur occur anywhere on the body and vary in colour. These spots are caused by UV sun exposure and the degree depends on how much UV light these melanin pigments are exposed to. These must be monitored annually, as there is a chance they may develop into skin cancer and melanoma.

POST-INFLAMMATORY HYPER PIGMENTATION: This is a response to injury of the skin and can be the result of acne, burns, friction or aggressive clinical treatments, such as chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser and IPL. This condition often resolves with time and generally responds to topical products, although it can recur. 

MELASMA: Melasma or chloasma is skin pigmentation that is deeper in the skin’s dermis. It appears on the face as larger brown patches with a non-distinct border. Though causes are unknown, it is often stimulated by hormonal increases and is made worse with UV exposure, some medications, pregnancy and stress.