Pigmentation Treatment
in Bengaluru
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation is a common skin condition characterised by dark patches or uneven skin tone caused by excess melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its colour, and when certain cells produce too much of it in response to triggers such as sun exposure, inflammation, or hormonal changes, visible dark patches appear on the skin.
While pigmentation is generally harmless, it can significantly affect appearance and confidence. It is particularly common in Indian skin tones, where the skin produces melanin more readily in response to any form of inflammation or UV exposure.
Who is this suitable for?
- Melasma, the hormonally-driven mask-like facial pattern
- Sunspots, age spots, and freckles
- Post-acne dark marks and uneven skin tone
- Any patient where the cause and depth of pigmentation has been assessed by a dermatologist
Skin tones we treat
- All Fitzpatrick skin types I through VI
- Specialist experience with South Asian skin types IV to VI
- Protocols adjusted per skin type to minimise PIH risk
What causes pigmentation?
Multiple factors can trigger or worsen pigmentation. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in choosing the right treatment.
| Cause | How It Contributes |
|---|---|
| Sun exposure | UV radiation stimulates melanin production as a protective response, causing sunspots, tanning, and uneven tone |
| Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) | Dark marks left after any skin inflammation including acne, injury, or rashes, particularly common in Indian skin tones |
| Hormonal changes | Melasma, the mask-like pattern of pigmentation on the face, is driven by oestrogen and progesterone, commonly triggered by pregnancy or contraceptive pills |
| Genetics | Some individuals are predisposed to freckles and pigmentation regardless of sun exposure |
| Medications | Certain medications including some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and antimalarials can trigger pigmentation as a side effect |
The Spectra laser:
three wavelengths, one device
The Spectra Q-Switched laser offers multiple wavelengths, each targeting pigmentation at a different depth. The right wavelength, or combination, is selected based on your specific presentation.
| Wavelength | Target | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1064nm | Deeper melanin deposits and dermal pigmentation | Melasma, deeper dark patches, suitable for all skin types including dark tones |
| 532nm | Superficial pigmentation in the epidermis | Sunspots, age spots, superficial freckles, brighter complexion |
| 660nm | Targeted freckle pigment | Erasing individual freckles and localised superficial pigmentation |
What we offer at Skinmatics
Each treatment below is available across our clinics in Bengaluru and Chennai. Your dermatologist recommends one or a combination based on your skin assessment.
Glycolic Acid Peel
An alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) peel that exfoliates the outermost layer of skin, removing dead, pigmented cells and promoting faster cell turnover. Effective for superficial pigmentation, post-acne marks, and dull, uneven skin. Typically performed in a series spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart.
Chemical PeelRetinol Peel (Yellow Peel)
Contains retinol (vitamin A), which penetrates deeply to enhance cell renewal and target pigmentation, while smoothing fine lines and improving overall texture. Suitable for moderate pigmentation and combined anti-ageing and brightening effects.
Chemical PeelTCA Peel
A medium-depth chemical peel that penetrates more deeply than glycolic or retinol peels, prompting regeneration of fresher, more evenly toned skin. Effective for stubborn pigmentation including deeper melasma and persistent sunspots. Peeling typically occurs over 5 to 7 days.
Chemical PeelCosmelan Peel
A professional depigmentation treatment that inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, reducing pigmentation at its source. The mask is applied in clinic and left on for 8 to 12 hours before removal at home. Safe for all skin types.
DepigmentationSpectra Q-Switched Laser
A non-ablative Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser offering three wavelengths, each targeting pigmentation at a different depth. Does not remove the surface layer of skin, making it suitable for Indian skin tones with a lower risk of post-treatment pigmentation. Sessions last 30 minutes to an hour.
Laser ToningBefore, during,
and after your treatment
What happens before your treatment
- Consultation to assess your skin type, pigmentation concerns, and medical history
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and retinoids for at least 2 weeks before treatment
- Use a gentle cleanser and any prescribed pre-treatment product in the lead-up to your session
- A patch test may be performed before your first session
What happens during your treatment
- Cosmelan: skin is cleansed, the mask applied in clinic and left 8 to 12 hours, removed at home
- Spectra laser: cooling gel applied, laser passed over the treatment area, 30 minutes to an hour
- Chemical peels: skin cleansed, peel solution applied for a set duration, then neutralised and removed
- Minimal discomfort across all procedures
What happens after your treatment
- Some redness or mild swelling is normal; cool compresses can soothe the area
- Use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh or active products for several days
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, without exception
- Keep skin hydrated with a gentle moisturiser
- Follow-up appointment scheduled to assess progress and plan further sessions
Dermatologists who know Indian skin.
Skinmatics has treated over 10,000 patients across 5 clinics in Bengaluru and Chennai. Pigmentation treatment plans are customised to each patient's skin type, pigmentation type, and underlying cause. The clinic uses advanced technology including the Spectra Q-Switched laser and Cosmelan, with treatment parameters calibrated for Indian skin tones.
- MBBS and MD Dermatology qualified doctor at every clinic
- Spectra Q-Switched laser and Cosmelan available at every clinic
- Specialist experience with Fitzpatrick types IV to VI
- Personalised plans reviewed and signed off by your doctor
- Honest assessments at every consultation, no guaranteed outcome claims
Available at all five clinics
Pigmentation treatment is available at all Skinmatics locations in Bengaluru and Chennai. Book at your nearest clinic or call us to confirm availability at a specific branch.
Pigmentation Treatment results.
Photographs of our own patients, treated at Skinmatics and shown with their permission. Results vary from person to person.
