Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation treatment at Barstable Medical Clinic

This is darkening of the skin due to excess skin pigment (melanin) and commonly occurs in patches on the face following sun exposure, age, pregnancy or oral contraceptive pill use.

Hyperpigmentation can be very distressing and difficult to manage. At Barstable clinic the following options are available for hyperpigmentation:

  • Topical retinol cream
  • VIP kojic acid facial peel
  • Dermamelan® – an advanced pigmentation treatment which is applied as a facial mask and removed after 8-12 hours, with a follow-on cream to be used 

We suggest you have a free consultation to discuss which option is most appropriate.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is darkening of the skin due to excess skin pigment (melanin) and commonly occurs in patches on the face following sun exposure, age, pregnancy or oral contraceptive pill use.
There are three main types of hyperpigmentation:

Sun damage hyperpigmentation (e.g sunspots) As our skin is exposed to UV and blue light from the sun and other sources, it becomes less able to regulate the production of melanin. As a result, an overproduction of melanin can cause distinct pigmented patches on the skin. These are commonly found on the face, hands and décolletage, and is often more prominent in fairer skin types.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): This occurs in response to inflammation in the skin and is particularly common in darker skin types. It is often occurs following acne scarring.

Melasma: Melasma or chloasma is a condition where brown patches of pigmentation develop, usually on the cheek bones, forehead or top lip. This tends to be triggered by hormononal changes e.g due to pregnancy, certain contraceptives and thyroid conditions. Melasma can then be worsened by sun exposure in the summer and may mildly improve in wintertime when there is less UV, however it can remain a problem even after hormonal changes have improved.

Before & after pics

How is hyperpigmentation treated?

The first and foremost treatment for hyperpigmentation is to stop it from occurring. This means wearing a high factor (SPF 50+) mineral-based sunscreen all year round. Our medical team can advise you on the best scientifically researched skin protection products at your consultation, including SPF of up to 130+, for severe hyperpigmentation.
By blocking the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, the melanocytes (cells which produce pigment) are not stimulated into producing the pigmentation, which should help to stop the problem from getting worse.
For troublesome or persistent hyperpigmentation patient can choose from a variety of treatments, depending on the cause and severity of the pigment.

At Barstable Medical Clinic, we understand how distressing hyperpigmentation can be and we offer the following treatments which can be used in isolation or combination for maximum effectiveness:

  • Topical retinoids with Vitamin C and active tyrosinase-enzyme inhibitors (which prevent melanin production)- this is a cream that can be applied on a nightly basis for approx. 6-8 weeks; the least invasive option, for mild hyperpigmentation.
  • VI Peel Precision Plus with fast acting ‘Lightening Booster’- this powerful moderate depth TCA acid skin peel contains retinol and Vitamin C and helps to supress melanogenesis and promotes rapid cell turnover for improved all over skin tone. The best option for moderately severe hyperpigmentation, in particular for those patients whose pigment is as a result of acne scarring.
  • Cosmelan® – an advanced pigmentation treatment from Mesoetsetic® which involves a combination of an in-clinic facial mask containing Kojic Acid, Phytic Acid and Retinyl Palmitate, and a follow-on home care protocol, applied morning and night. This is the worlds leading depigmentation treatment, for the most severe and stubborn of pigmentation problems.


When you attend your free consultation with our experienced doctors, they can advise you on the best treatment for your unique hyperpigmentation concerns, and will explain more about each individual treatment, what it involves and what results you can expect to achieve.