Pigmentation, Uneven Skin Tone & Melasma: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
at The Axis Clinic in London
What is Pigmentation, Uneven Skin Tone & Melasma?
Pigmentation, often called hyperpigmentation, describes areas of skin that look darker than the surrounding skin because more melanin has been produced. This can show up as freckles, sun spots, age spots, or larger patches of discolouration on the face, neck, chest, or body.
Uneven skin tone is when these darker areas, redness, or dull patches sit next to lighter areas, so the complexion no longer looks uniform.
Melasma is a specific type of pigmentation that appears as brown or grey brown patches, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. It is often linked to hormones, pregnancy, and sun exposure, and can be more common in clients with medium to deeper skin tones.
What treatments are available for Pigmentation, Uneven Skin Tone & Melasma at The Axis Clinic?
We offer a range of advanced treatments designed to target pigmentation safely and effectively. Our approach focuses on reducing excess melanin, improving overall skin clarity, and restoring an even tone.
We combine medical-grade technology with clinical expertise to treat various pigmentation concerns, from sun damage and age spots to melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Treatments such as Lumecca IPL, LaseMD Ultra, and BBL Hero help resurface the skin, encourage healthy cell renewal, and promote a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Lumecca IPL
BBL Hero
LaseMD
The Perfect Peel
Chemical Peels
ClearSilk
What Causes Pigmentation, Uneven Skin Tone & Melasma?
Pigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye colour. While this process is natural, several factors can overstimulate melanin production, leading to darker patches or uneven tone.
The most common cause of pigmentation is sun exposure, which triggers the skin’s natural defence mechanism against UV rays. Over time, this can result in sun spots, age spots, and overall discolouration. Hormonal changes are another major contributor, particularly in cases of melasma, which often appears during pregnancy or with the use of hormonal medication.
Other causes include ageing, where melanin production becomes irregular, and post-inflammatory pigmentation, which can develop after acne, eczema, or skin injury. Certain medications and medical conditions may also influence melanin activity and cause pigmentation irregularities.
Pigmentation, Uneven Skin Tone & Melasma
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long do the results of Lumecca IPL treatment last?
Results from Lumecca IPL can be long-lasting, especially with the right aftercare. Once pigmentation and sun spots are cleared, they will not return unless new damage occurs. However, ongoing sun exposure, hormonal changes, or ageing can cause new pigmentation to form over time. To maintain your results, we recommend regular sunscreen use, a tailored skincare routine, and occasional maintenance sessions at The Axis Clinic to keep your complexion bright and even.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on the depth and type of pigmentation. Most clients see visible improvement after one to two treatments, with optimal results achieved after a full course of three to four sessions. Your practitioner will assess your skin and create a personalised plan during your consultation.
Which is better for pigmentation, Lumecca IPL, BBL Hero, LaseMD Ultra, or ClearSilk?
Each of these technologies treats pigmentation effectively, but they work in different ways and are suited to different skin types and concerns.
Lumecca IPL delivers intense pulsed light to target sun spots, freckles, and age-related pigmentation. It’s ideal for lighter to medium skin tones and produces fast, visible brightening.
BBL Hero is a more advanced form of IPL that treats larger areas quickly, with improved precision and comfort. It is excellent for ongoing pigmentation maintenance and full-face rejuvenation.
LaseMD Ultra uses non-ablative fractional laser energy to resurface the skin gently, helping to lighten melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation. It’s a great choice for deeper or more stubborn discolouration.
ClearSilk offers a no-downtime laser option that diffuses redness, refines tone, and promotes overall radiance, making it ideal for patients seeking gradual, gentle improvement.
At The Axis Clinic, there isn’t a single “best” treatment. The right choice depends on your pigmentation type, skin tone, and desired results. During your consultation, our practitioners will assess your skin and recommend the most suitable or combined approach to safely achieve a clearer, more even complexion.
Is pigmentation treatment suitable for all skin types?
At The Axis Clinic, we tailor every pigmentation treatment to your individual skin type and tone. Our advanced systems, including Lumecca IPL, BBL Hero, and LaseMD Ultra, allow us to safely treat a wide range of skin tones. For darker complexions or melasma-prone skin, we use gentler, staged protocols to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How can Chemical Peels help with Pigmentation, Uneven Skin Tone & Melasma?
Chemical peels can significantly improve pigmentation and uneven tone by gently exfoliating the upper layers of skin, encouraging new, healthy cells to form. The process helps to fade dark spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentation while refining texture and enhancing overall brightness.
At The Axis Clinic, we use medical-grade chemical peels that are carefully selected for your skin type and concern. For mild pigmentation, a light peel can refresh and brighten the complexion, while deeper or combined peels can target more stubborn discolouration. Each treatment is performed under expert supervision to ensure safety, comfort, and gradual, visible improvement.
Can pigmentation come back after treatment?
Once treated areas have cleared, they typically remain lighter. However, ongoing sun exposure, hormonal changes, or inflammation can trigger new pigmentation. Following your aftercare plan and protecting your skin daily with broad-spectrum SPF significantly reduces recurrence.
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What our clients say
EXCELLENT Based on 136 reviews Posted on Dina Rickman26 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alev and Carlos are so knowledgable and good at what they do. I had a great BBL hero and gentle laser resurfacing treatment at axis. Would recommend to anyone!Posted on Kamilla21 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It’s always a pleasure to visit the Axis Clinic. Dr Carlos and his team look after me with great care, adjusting their approach so there is never any discomfort. Each visit feels relaxing, with friendly conversation, and I am already seeing results!Posted on Ina Hupi8 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Always a pleasure visiting the clinic. The team provides a truly professional and personalised experience, with exceptional attention to detail. Every visit feels tailored to my needs, and the care and reassurance I receive make the whole experience both relaxing and luxurious. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend their services. Special shoutout to Carlos and Alev!Posted on Elizabeth Thomas6 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Always excellent service, advice and wonderful staff. I wouldn’t go anywhere else for my skin!Posted on Sian Halas5 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have total trust in Dr Carlos with my face - Alev is incredibly passionate and you can feel that in the service and innovation at Axis. So grateful to live locally to them. I know I could come to them with any concerns and get very effective outcomes - they absolutely know what they’re doing.Posted on Gunac Yaman3 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had an amazing experience at The Axis Clinic for my PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) hair treatment! Dr. Carlos performed the procedure, and I couldn't be happier with the results so far. From the moment I walked in, the clinic's atmosphere was welcoming and professional. Dr. Carlos took the time to explain the entire process, addressing all my concerns and making me feel at ease. His expertise and gentle approach made the treatment quick and comfortable. I've started to notice positive changes in my hair, and I’m excited to see the continued results. The staff were friendly, and the clinic was impeccably clean. I highly recommend The Axis Clinic and Dr. Carlos for anyone considering PRP treatment! Thank you for such a fantastic experience!Posted on Anette C2 September 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Always a pleasure to come here. Friendly, professional with expert medical knowledge and training. Also the results speak for themselves! Very happy and will continue to be a happy customer for a long time to come I am sure.Posted on Eleanor Martin30 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing clinic. So happy to have found this place. Hydrafacials with Sara are amazing- my skin looks glowy, fresh and I get loads of compliments after each visit. Sara is super knowledgeable and takes her time to explain every step. I also get botox here. I’ve had it elsewhere in the past, and can 100% say Dr Carlos is the best. He takes time to explain each procedure, has such careful placement, minimal bruising, and great results- I couldn’t be happier. Thank you, Axis Clinic!Posted on murat yilmaz28 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an amazing experience at the axis beauty clinic today for my laser treatment. The staff was incredibly professional and made me feel comfortable throughout the process. I’m already seeing improvements in my scars, and I couldn't be happier with the results! Thank you for your excellent service and care. I look forward to my next visit!Posted on SRKN YMN28 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I came to Thr Axis Clinic because Dr. Carlos is a surgeon, and I completely trust him with all my injectables like Botox and PRP for my hair. The clinic also has the best lasers — CO2 and BBL Hero — so I was able to find everything I need under one roof. Alev has truly transformed my skin with her laser treatments and skincare recommendations. The whole team is professional, knowledgeable, and caring. Highly recommend
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