Dark spots, sun spots, marks left behind by spots, and melasma all come down to the same thing: areas of skin producing more pigment than the skin around them. They are among the most common reasons people come to see us, and also among the most frustrating, because they can be slow to fade and quick to come back.
The key is a routine that does three jobs: protects, brightens and renews.
1. Protect: SPF every single day
Daylight is the biggest trigger for pigmentation. Even a little exposure can undo weeks of progress, so a broad-spectrum SPF50 is non-negotiable, all year round and even on cloudy days. A tinted mineral sunscreen such as Obagi Sun Shield SPF50 also helps protect against visible light, which matters for melasma. It comes in a cool tint too.
2. Brighten: vitamin C in the morning
A vitamin C serum, applied under your SPF, brightens dull skin and helps defend it from daily environmental stress. Professional-C Serum 15% is a good all-rounder; if your skin is sensitive, start with the 10% strength.
3. Renew: a targeted cream in the evening
In the evening, a brightening treatment helps fade the look of existing marks. Nu-Derm Clear Fx is a non-hydroquinone option that suits most skin types. Gentle exfoliation a few times a week, for example with Nu-Derm Exfoderm, helps bring fresher skin to the surface.
Be patient
Pigmentation usually takes 8–12 weeks of consistent use to visibly improve. Stopping your SPF, or picking at spots, can set you back.
When to book a consultation
If your pigmentation is deep, widespread or has not responded to a routine like this, prescription-strength treatments can help. These are only available after a consultation, so Dr Chi can check what type of pigmentation you have and choose the safest approach for your skin.
See the full pigmentation routine, take the skin quiz, or book a consultation.
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