Pigmentation
Pigmentation shows up in different ways: dark patches, under-eye darkness, or marks left behind after spots. Melasma, post-inflammatory marks and under-eye darkness need different treatments, and knowing which one matches your skin helps you get better results.
Answer a few questions to find your prescription skincare.
Understanding pigmentation
-
Common causes of pigmentation
Melasma — Symmetrical brown patches, usually on cheeks, forehead or upper lip. Linked to sun exposure, hormones and genetics. More common in darker skin tones and women.
Post-inflammatory marks — Flat dark marks left after acne, eczema or skin injury. Especially common and persistent in darker skin.
Under-eye darkness — A mix of pigment, visible blood vessels and shadowing. If eczema is driving it, this needs treating first.
-
Symptoms to look out for
- Symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches
- Flat marks where a spot or injury has healed
- Darkness or shadowing under the eyes
- Pigmentation that darkens with sun exposure
- Patches that fade slowly or resist treatment
-
How is pigmentation treated?
Melasma — Tranexamic acid, hydroquinone and azelaic acid reduce pigment production at the source. Tretinoin speeds up cell turnover. Niacinamide calms inflammation and blocks pigment transfer.
Post-inflammatory marks — Hydroquinone and azelaic acid target excess melanin left after inflammation. Tretinoin speeds up turnover; niacinamide calms residual inflammation.
Under-eye darkness — Caffeine constricts blood vessels to reduce the vascular look. Arbutin is a gentler form of hydroquinone suited to delicate skin. Niacinamide and tranexamic acid target the pigment component.
Daily SPF is essential alongside every treatment. A prescriber reviews your answers to find the right treatment for your skin.
-
How to get the best results from my treatment
- Treat the root cause; if pigmentation is from acne, eczema or a rash, treating it helps prevent new marks
- Wear SPF daily, even indoors, the biggest trigger for pigmentation to return
- Avoid picking or scrubbing, which can trigger more pigmentation
- Keep skincare gentle; harsh actives or exfoliants can worsen pigmentation
- Be patient; pigmentation fades over months and consistency matters more than speed
-
When should I see a dermatologist instead?
We offer topical prescription treatments only. See a dermatologist or GP urgently, rather than use this service, if:
- A mole or freckle has changed in size, shape or colour, or started bleeding or itching
- A new dark spot looks different from your other marks, or has grown quickly
- You have any patch you are unsure about that does not fit a pattern you recognise
- Pigmentation appears suddenly with no clear trigger
- You would prefer a confirmed diagnosis rather than treatment based on your symptoms alone
Changing moles and evolving sun spots can be signs of skin cancer and need prompt in-person assessment.
From questions to treatment
Answer a few questions
Tell us about your skin and your goals in a short online assessment.
A prescriber reviews your answers
A prescriber reviews your responses and recommends the right treatment for your skin.
Start your routine
Your prescription skincare is delivered, with guidance on using it for the best results.
Answer a few questions
Tell us about your skin and your goals in a short online assessment.
A prescriber reviews your answers
A prescriber reviews your responses and recommends the right treatment for your skin.
Start your routine
Your prescription skincare is delivered, with guidance on using it for the best results.
