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Dermatologist Consult - Irregular Pigmentation

Irregular Pigmentation. Everything you need to know

We offer evidence-based treatments for all types of pigmentation

Whether you’re dealing with melasma, vitiligo, sun damage, or post-inflammatory pigmentation, the consulting dermatologists at Northside Dermatology offer expert diagnosis and personalised treatment plans. Using advanced laser technology and topical therapies, we aim to restore a more even, balanced complexion.

Northside Dermatology is a leading provider of irregular pigmentation treatments in North Fitzroy and Reservoir. Dr Liu, the principal dermatologist, performs a wide range of treatments to diminish pigmentation and help patients achieve clear, even complexions. Book an examination and receive a personalised scar treatment plan at Northside Dermatology by calling us on 03 8582 8688.

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Before & Afters

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Explore Melasma
Explore Vitiligo
Treatments

Explore Melasma

There are many causes of unwanted skin pigmentation. One of the most well-known pigmentation concerns is melasma, a condition in which patients develop patchy areas of darkness on the face and sometimes on nearby areas of the body. Melasma is best treated with a medical approach under the guidance of a specialist dermatologist.

Melasma appears as patches of brown pigmentation on areas that are chronically exposed to the sun. It most often arises on the face, typically on the forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip and chin. Melasma can also affect the arms and the back. Women are more likely to develop melasma than men. Those who tan well or naturally have a darker skin tone are also more prone to developing melasma. Though the condition does not affect an individual’s health, melasma can be a source of embarrassment or anxiety about one’s appearance.

Find out more: Melasma & Treatments 

Melasma on forehead
Melasma on cheek

Explore Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a relatively common dermatological condition in which pigment-forming cells (melanocytes) are attacked by the body’s immune system, causing patches of abnormally white skin to develop. These white patches typically start in small areas and spread over time. Common areas affected by vitiligo include the face, neck, armpits, elbows, hands, knees and genitalia. Vitiligo is not contagious. Though the condition cannot be cured, at-home management and medical treatment methods can slow its progress and help the affected area repigment, therefore reducing its cosmetic impact.

Vitiligo appears as patches of white skin with well-defined borders. Some patients develop only a few spots, while others develop widespread areas of whiteness. White hairs can occur in the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes and beard. The eyes may also be affected. Vitiligo can worsen over time, but the rate at which this happens varies from patient to patient.

Find out more: Vitiligo & Treatments 

Vitiligo on face
Vitiligo on body

Treatment

Topical Prescription Creams
Dermatologists often prescribe creams containing hydroquinone, retinoids, azelaic acid, or combination formulations. These help lighten pigmentation and improve overall skin tone.
Best for: Melasma, post-inflammatory pigmentation, uneven skin tone
Down time: None
Comments: Gold standard first-line treatment; always paired with daily sunscreen
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Picosecond Laser (PicoSure Pro)
This advanced laser breaks up pigment using short bursts of energy with minimal heat, making it safe for a variety of pigmentation types.
Best for: Freckles, sun spots, superficial melasma
Down time: Mild redness for 1–2 days
Comments: Multiple sessions usually required; dermatologist-led settings are crucial
PicoSure Pro
Q-Switched Laser for Pigment
Targets deeper pigmentation with short pulses of energy. Best for stubborn or mixed pigment conditions.
Best for: Deeper melasma, resistant pigmentation
Down time: Redness/swelling for a few days
Comments: Must be performed carefully to avoid rebound pigmentation
Q-Switched Laser For Pigment
Q-Switched Laser for Rejuvenaton
Improves skin tone and texture by stimulating collagen with short pulses of energy. Helps reduce fine lines, pores, and dullness for fresher, healthier-looking skin.
Best for: Rejuvenation
Down time: Generally none, some redness/darkening with lesion treatment
Comments: Gentle treatment option suitable for maintenance and overall skin health
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Chemical Peels
Exfoliates the outer layer of skin using specialised solutions to reveal smoother, clearer skin beneath. Helps reduce pigmentation, fine lines, and congestion.
Best for: Sun spots, freckles, mild melasma, uneven tone
Down time: Peeling or dryness for 0 - 10 days
Comments: Works best when combined with prescription creams and sun protection
Chemical Peels
Phototherapy (Narrowband UVB)
Used for conditions where the skin has lost pigment, such as vitiligo. Controlled light therapy stimulates repigmentation.
Best for: Vitiligo
Down time: None
Comments: Requires multiple sessions; safe and dermatologist-supervised
Vitiligo Repigmentation
Fractional Laser (Low Energy)
Fractional laser creates micro-columns in the skin to stimulate renewal and can help with resistant pigmentation.
Best for: Sun damage, age spots, resistant pigmentation
Down time: 3–5 days of redness and peeling
Comments: Used cautiously in melasma; stronger role in sun-damage-related pigmentation
CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment
Skin Cancer Prevention

Pigmentation, Sun Damage and Skin Health

Melasma and other pigmentation concerns are often linked to chronic sun exposure. In Australia, where UV levels are among the highest in the world, sun damage doesn’t just cause uneven pigmentation, it also increases the risk of skin cancer.

That’s why our dermatologists take a comprehensive approach: addressing pigmentation with evidence-based treatments, while also supporting your long-term skin health. As part of your care, we recommend regular dermatologist-led skin checks , ideally once a year, to detect and manage early signs of sun damage and skin cancer.

Learn About Skin Checks

Pigmentation Before and After

Understanding Pigmentation Disorders
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is irregular pigmentation?

Irregular pigmentation refers to uneven skin colour. It may appear as darker patches (hyperpigmentation, such as melasma, freckles, sun spots or post-inflammatory pigmentation) or lighter patches (hypopigmentation, such as vitiligo).

 

What causes pigmentation problems?

Causes vary and include chronic sun exposure, hormonal changes, skin injury or inflammation, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions.

 

How is pigmentation diagnosed?

A dermatologist can diagnose the cause of pigmentation through a detailed skin examination, sometimes supported by tools such as dermoscopy or Wood’s lamp.

 

Can pigmentation be prevented?

Daily sun protection is the most important step in preventing new pigmentation and reducing the risk of existing patches worsening. Avoiding tanning and harsh skin products also helps.

 

What treatments are available for pigmentation?

Options include prescription creams, chemical peels, lasers (such as PicoSure Pro or Q-Switched), phototherapy for conditions like vitiligo, and oral medications in selected cases. The best treatment depends on the cause and skin type.

 

How long do pigmentation treatments take to work?

Most treatments require weeks to months to show visible improvement. Multiple sessions are often needed for procedures such as lasers or phototherapy.

 

Is pigmentation the same as melasma or vitiligo?

Melasma and vitiligo are specific types of pigmentation disorders. Melasma causes darker patches, often on the face, while vitiligo leads to loss of pigment in patches of skin. General pigmentation also includes freckles, sun spots, and post-inflammatory marks.

 

Can pigmentation be cured permanently?

Some forms, like freckles or sun spots, can be removed effectively. Others, like melasma, tend to recur and need ongoing management. Vitiligo may improve with treatment but can be long-term.

Melasma & Pigmentation Treatments

Clearer, Brighter Skin Starts With a Tailored Pigmentation Treatment Plan

Take control of unwanted pigmentation with a personalised treatment program designed by our dermatologists. Whether you’re experiencing patchy pigmentation, sun-induced darkening, or recurrent flare-ups, we combine evidence-based medical therapies with carefully selected technologies, such as prescription creams, oral medications, and dermatologist-supervised laser treatments, to help you achieve a clearer, more even skin tone.

 

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Dermatology Partner For Your Skin Health

Your Partner In Skin Health

Partner with a dermatologist who understands your skin at every stage. From prevention to advanced treatments, we’ll create a tailored plan that keeps your skin healthy, confident and cared for — now and in the years ahead.

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Northside Dermatology operates in state-of-the-art facilities in Fitzroy North and Reservoir. All treatments are performed by trained doctors or specialist dermatologists, ensuring your skin is in the safest hands.

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