Pigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns — and one of the most misunderstood. Whether it’s a smattering of freckles, sun spots, or post-inflammatory marks, most of us will experience some form of uneven skin tone in our lives. And while it's perfectly normal (and often completely harmless), we also understand the desire to feel comfortable and confident in your skin.
If hyperpigmentation is something you're looking to treat, knowledge is the best place to start. From sun exposure to hormonal changes, pigmentation can be caused by a number of factors — and thankfully, there are just as many ways to address it.
To help demystify the topic, we spoke with renowned facialist and clean beauty expert Nicole Manning, who shared her expert insight into everything from causes to treatments. Below, she answers all the questions we've ever had about managing hyperpigmentation.
What is hyperpigmentation?
Think of this word as the umbrella term for all things pigment related. Generally, clients come to us concerned that they have areas or discolouration or ruddiness and would like to achieve a balanced even skin tone.
Why does it happen? And who does it affect?
The key drivers are sun exposure (by far the most critical factor), followed by hormonal effects and picking at skin. It can affect anyone, though some people are genetically predisposed more than others.
Can you get rid of hyperpigmentation?
Whilst sun and physical damage can be difficult to unwind, we work with clients on a treatment plan which focuses on consistent, conscious treatment and protection to remove the signs. Generally this will involve a carefully curated plan involving IPL, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and a great skincare plan.
What can you do to treat and prevent it in the future?
Always wear SPF - year round. And wear a hat when possible. SPF is the number one product which we recommend to our clients, regardless of where they live or their lifestyle. Protection at the source is critical to protecting the skin.
Beyond this, we are consistently working with brands from around the world to understand the best ways to treat and prevent pigmentation for our clients. Ingredients such as Vitamin C, White Shiitake mushroom and niacinamide are all also great at keeping the skin healthy, glowing and helping to prevent pigment. Try Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum it works to diminish dark spots, but the added ingredient of White Shiitake Mushroom helps prevent new spots from forming.
What’s the most effective kind of treatment? Depending on your personal approach to skin, there are a number of ways you can treat pigmentation. Chat to your skin therapist about what's best for you, consider treatments like IPL (intense pulsed light) chemical peels, LED, microdermabrasion, the list goes on. It's super important to ensure you are getting the treatment that is most suited to your skin type and conditions.
What should we look out for in a treatment for pigmentation?
Again this is dependent on the person's skin colouring - I would be looking out for Vitamin C or Niacinamide.
Do you have any hard rules around skincare in general? What do you wish more people knew?
Always wear an SPF, no question - hard rule. Keeping your skin's barrier intact and healthy is hands down one of the most commonly missed and most crucial rules of maintaining optimal skin health. Creating a healthy and vibrant eco system for your skin to be healthy is critical - drink water, enjoy a balanced diet, be aware of your hormonal balance and enjoy a level of fitness which enables you to do anything you want. Our clients who are most comfortable in their skin nearly always have a balance of these elements in their life.
