Pigmentation

Pigmentation covers several patterns of uneven skin tone, from small marks left after a spot to larger, diffuse patches such as melasma.

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What is pigmentation?

Pigmentation covers several patterns of uneven skin tone, from small marks left after a spot to larger, diffuse patches such as melasma. Dr Sateei always assesses which type you have before recommending anything.

What causes pigmentation?

Sun exposure stimulates melanin as a protective response. Hormonal changes drive melasma; post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation follows inflammation such as acne; ageing and genetics also influence reactivity.

Signs and Symptoms

Sun-related pigmentation shows as small, well-defined brown spots; melasma appears as larger, symmetrical, softer-edged patches; post-inflammatory marks appear at the exact site of previous irritation and fade over months.

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Treatment options

A personalised medical-grade skincare programme using Obagi Medical and Skinbetter Science is central, alongside daily broad-spectrum SPF. The Signature Skin Renewal Facial supports clarity and radiance; skin boosters and polynucleotides support overall skin health. Melasma in particular can be a persistent condition that benefits from long-term, consistent management rather than a single fix, and flare-ups can recur with sun exposure or hormonal changes even after visible improvement.

Why choose Dr Ellie Sateei?

With over two decades of experience, Dr Sateei understands how different pigmentation types behave and is careful never to promise a quick fix, at both her London (near Harley Street) and Sevenoaks clinics.

Pigmentation FAQs

What causes pigmentation?

Sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation and ageing, with genetics influencing reactivity.

Can pigmentation be prevented?

Daily SPF is the most important step, alongside avoiding known triggers.

Which treatment is best?

Depends on the type of pigmentation; medical-grade skincare is usually central, sometimes with the Skin Renewal Facial.

Is melasma treated differently?

Yes, it’s more persistent and hormonally driven, needing long-term management and strict SPF.

How long does treatment for pigmentation take?

Improvement builds gradually over months.

Is treatment for pigmentation painful?

No, skincare and the facial treatments are non-invasive.

Is there downtime?

No downtime is expected.

Who is suitable for pigmentation treatment?

Most adults with confirmed pigmentation.

Can pigmentation return?

Yes, with sun exposure or hormonal changes therefore maintenance is important.

Should I see a doctor first?

Yes, any new or changing mark should be checked before cosmetic treatment.

Treatments of interest

Suggested treatments for helping with pigmentation:

Chemical Peel for Pigmentation & Melasma
Controlled exfoliation selected carefully by pigmentation type, since melasma needs a gentler approach than sun-related marks.
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Obagi Blue Peel Radiance
A TCA-based peel used where a more noticeable improvement in clarity is clinically appropriate.
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Skin boosters treatment
Medical-Grade & Prescription Skincare
The central, long-term route for all pigmentation types, alongside daily broad-spectrum SPF.
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The next step

If uneven skin tone has been bothering you, Dr Ellie Sateei welcomes a consultation at her London or Sevenoaks clinic.

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How can you find us?

Our London clinic is located at 91a New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6XF

We serve patients from London, Kent and the home counties as well as from all over the world. Our London clinic sits in the heart of Marylebone, within easy reach of the West End by tube, while our Sevenoaks clinic in Ightham is moments from the M25 and M26 for patients across Kent.

Opening hours
Monday
9:00 - 17:30
Tuesday
9:00 - 17:30
Wednesday
9:00 - 17:30
Thursday
9:00 - 17:30
Friday
9:00 - 17:30
Saturday
9:00 - 16:00
Sunday
Closed
London Clinic
91a New Cavendish Street Marylebone London W1W 6XF
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