Sun Damage / Pigmentation

Skin Architect clinic specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of pigmentation. We offer a wide range of medical-grade solutions including chemical peels, professional skincare systems, Cosmelan, microneedling and injectable skin boosters.

To discover which pigmentation treatment is right for you, complete our FREE online skin analysis or book a FREE in-clinic consultation with one of our skin specialists.

Conditions

What is pigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin caused by an increase in melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly seen on the face, neck and hands. Although harmless, pigmentation can affect confidence and may require professional treatment to improve.

Anyone can develop pigmentation, but it is especially common in those with sun exposure, hormonal changes or a genetic predisposition.

Results

Before after after pigmentation laser treatment

Before

After

The most common types include:

  • Sun Spots (Age Spots)

These flat, brown patches develop after years of UV exposure. They are most noticeable on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, chest and hands. They tend to increase with age but can appear earlier in those who spend a lot of time outdoors.

  • Freckles

Freckles are clusters of melanin-producing cells and often appear in fairer skin types. They darken with sun exposure and are typically more visible during summer months.

  • Melasma

Melasma presents as symmetrical brown or grey patches, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip. It is strongly associated with hormonal changes such as pregnancy, contraceptive use or hormone treatments. Melasma sits deeper in the skin than sun damage, making it more challenging to treat and requiring specialist care.

  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

PIH occurs after skin trauma such as acne, burns, eczema or cosmetic irritation. It is more common in medium to darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick 3–6). PIH can appear as brown, red or purple marks that persist after the initial injury has healed.

Skin Architect has dedicated treatment pathways for each type of pigmentation, ensuring a tailored and effective approach.

Pigmentation Treatment Options at Skin Architect

Pigmentation is complex, and the best treatment depends on the type, cause and depth of the pigment. At Skin Architect, we offer a wide range of advanced solutions, allowing us to create a personalised treatment plan for each client.

1. Chemical Peels

We offer a range of medical-grade chemical peels that exfoliate damaged skin, reduce pigmentation and brighten overall skin tone. These are particularly beneficial for:

  • Sun spots
    • Mild melasma
    • PIH
    • Dull, uneven skin

Peels help to resurface the skin, regulate pigment production and stimulate collagen renewal.

2. Obagi Prescription Systems

Skin Architect is an approved provider of prescription-strength Obagi systems, including protocols designed to treat stubborn pigmentation and melasma at home over several weeks. These systems:

  • Reduce dark patches
    • Improve overall skin clarity
    • Even out skin tone
    • Strengthen the skin barrier
    • Control ongoing pigment production

These regimes are only prescribed following an online or in-clinic consultation with one of our professionals.

3. Cosmelan Depigmentation Treatment

Cosmelan is one of the most effective professional treatments for melasma and deep pigmentation. It works by:

  • Reducing pigment at the surface
    • Slowing down melanin production
    • Brightening and evening the complexion
    • Improving stubborn, recurrent pigmentation

Cosmelan is suitable for all skin types and is particularly effective when melasma or PIH is present.

4. Microneedling & Microneedling RF

Microneedling helps improve pigmentation by stimulating collagen, encouraging cell turnover and breaking up pigment irregularities. It is especially helpful for:

  • PIH
    • Sun damage
    • Textural pigmentation
    • Acne-related marks

Microneedling RF provides additional tightening and deeper rejuvenation for more stubborn cases.

5. Injectable Skin Boosters

Polynucleotides and hydrating injectables can help strengthen the skin, improve its ability to repair itself and reduce superficial pigmentation. These are often used as part of a combination approach for:

• Under-eye pigmentation
• Overall skin brightening
• Improving skin quality and resilience

What are the best products for pigmentation?

Medical-grade SPF is essential for preventing pigmentation from worsening. Your practitioner may recommend:

  • Brightening serums such as vitamin C
  • Pigment-correcting skincare
  • Retinoids to increase cell turnover

Prescription products are available only after a skin assessment.

Find the Best Treatment for You

Pigmentation is one of the most complex skin concerns, but with the right diagnosis and a tailored plan, significant improvement is possible.
Complete our FREE online skin analysis or book an in-clinic consultation to begin your journey toward clearer, brighter, more even-toned skin.

Commonly Asked Questions

Melasma usually appears as symmetrical patches on both sides of the face and often begins during pregnancy or hormonal changes. Sun damage is more patchy and irregular. Our practitioners can accurately diagnose this during consultation.

Laser is generally not recommended for melasma, as it can worsen pigmentation. At Skin Architect, we specialise in non-laser solutions such as Cosmelan, Obagi systems and advanced peels, which are safer and more effective for melasma.

Yes. We specialise in treating pigmentation in all skin tones, including Fitzpatrick 4–6. Your practitioner will select products and treatments suitable for your skin type to ensure safety and success.

Clinic Details

Location: Skin Architect (Inside Listers Health)

Listers Mill, Heaton Road, Bradford, BD9 4SH

 

E-mail: info@skinarchitect.co.uk

Phone : 01274 982121

Skin Architect Request a callback

If you would like to find out more about a treatment we offer then a callback from a member of our team is a great option.
Please complete the form below so that we can reach you and provide us with some details on your enquiry so the most suitable member of our team can give you a call. You will have the opportunity to select the date of your callback and either a morning, afternoon or evening call back slot.
Please note we are unable to provide call backs on Sunday’s or Bank Holidays.