Understanding Discoloration
What Are Dark Spots?
Dark spots — post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, solar lentigines and melasma — are all driven by excess melanin production. While they share an appearance, their causes and depths differ significantly, requiring tailored correction strategies for each type.
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PIH
Post-Inflammatory Marks
PIH occurs when acne, injury or inflammation triggers melanocyte overactivity, leaving behind brown or red marks after the original lesion resolves. The good news: PIH typically responds well to tyrosinase inhibitors and surface exfoliation over 4–8 weeks.
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Solar Damage
Sun-Induced Spots
Solar lentigines are the cumulative record of UV exposure accumulated over years. They tend to be sharply defined, flat and brown. Vitamin C, AHA exfoliation and consistent SPF use form the cornerstone of correction — with peels accelerating results dramatically.
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Hormonal Pigmentation
Melasma: A Different Challenge
Melasma is driven by hormonal triggers — pregnancy, oral contraceptives or thyroid imbalance — and is characterised by symmetric, larger patches of discoloration. It requires a multi-pathway approach and strict, year-round sun protection to manage effectively.
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The Resurfacing Step
Exfoliation: Surface Lifting
AHA and enzymatic exfoliants accelerate the natural skin cell cycle, lifting melanin-loaded cells from the surface before they can accumulate. Combined with inhibitors that slow new melanin production, exfoliation visibly fades spots within weeks.
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Your Correction Protocol
Dark spot correction is personal — the type, depth, Fitzpatrick type and skin history all determine which actives and treatments are appropriate. Bethlehem creates a fully customised, monitored correction plan for your unique discoloration.
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