Melasma & Pigmentation in Northampton

Pigmentation concerns are among the most common reasons patients seek skin treatment — and among the most frustrating to manage without professional guidance. Uneven skin tone, dark spots, patches of discolouration and a complexion that lacks clarity and radiance are all manifestations of pigmentation that has become distributed unevenly across the skin.

Melanin — the pigment that gives skin its colour — is produced by cells called melanocytes in response to UV exposure, hormonal signals and inflammation. In healthy skin, melanin is distributed evenly. When melanocyte activity becomes dysregulated, pigment accumulates in patches, producing the uneven tone, dark spots and discolouration that characterise pigmentation disorders.

Melasma is a specific form of pigmentation — characterised by symmetrical patches of brown or grey-brown discolouration, most commonly across the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and chin. It is strongly associated with hormonal influences — contraceptive pill, pregnancy and HRT are common triggers — and is significantly worsened by sun exposure. It is more common in women and in darker skin types, and is one of the more challenging pigmentation concerns to treat, as it tends to recur without consistent sun protection and careful maintenance.

Sun damage and age spots are caused by cumulative UV exposure over decades. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation develops after skin trauma — acne, eczema, injury or aggressive treatment — and tends to be more pronounced in darker skin types.

Pigmentation treatment requires a combination of clinical treatment and consistent daily sun protection. Without SPF 30 or higher applied every day, any improvement achieved through clinical treatment will be reversed by continued UV exposure — this is the non-negotiable foundation of any pigmentation treatment plan, and our clinical team will always discuss which approach is appropriate for melasma specifically given how sensitive it is to heat and sun.

IPL Skin Treatments and PhotoFabulous™ are effective for sun damage, age spots and diffuse uneven pigmentation, performed by Jenna Johnston or Dr John Tanqueray. Chemical Peels accelerate skin renewal and improve surface pigmentation progressively. Microneedling improves skin quality and supports the fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. NeoGen Plasma uses needle-free nitrogen plasma to refine skin texture and support a more even, radiant tone as part of a broader pigmentation plan. Professional Skincare — vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol and dedicated brightening ingredients — is essential between clinical treatments and for preventing recurrence.

Browse further articles and advice from the clinic in the Mulberry House Journal.