Pigmentation spots on the face: what cosmetic treatments can do – and what they can't

The colour of the skin comes from the pigment melanin. The skin produces it to protect itself from UV light. If more of it is produced or deposited in one place, a darker spot appears. Typical triggers:

• Sun. UV light is the most important factor. Spots that form after years of sun exposure often appear on the cheeks, forehead and hands.
• Inflammation. After a blemish, irritation or small injury, a dark mark sometimes remains, especially on darker skin.
• Hormones. Pregnancy or hormonal contraception can encourage patchy discolouration on the face.

Depending on the cause and depth, spots respond very differently to skincare and treatment.

With light discolouration and a dull, uneven complexion, a cosmetic treatment combined with the right skincare can achieve a lot:

• Mild peels loosen dead skin cells that make the complexion look dull.
• Brightening ingredients in skincare support a more even skin tone.
• Consistent sun protection prevents new spots from appearing and existing ones from getting darker.

What's realistic is a clearer, more even-looking complexion – not "erasing" spots. Many spots become lighter and less noticeable over time. This takes patience and regular care over weeks.

To be honest: not every spot belongs in a beauty studio.

• Pronounced or widespread pigmentation disorders, for example melasma, belong in the hands of a dermatologist.
• Any spot that changes – grows, changes colour, has irregular edges, itches or bleeds – must be checked by a doctor. This also applies to new spots that seem unusual to you.
• Moles belong in the hands of a dermatologist.

If in doubt, have any spot checked by a dermatologist.

Brightening Facial. A facial with a mild peel from ZO Skin Health for dull skin, an uneven complexion and light discolouration. The goal is a clearer, more radiant complexion. → Brightening Facial

As a course, often once a week until you're happy with the result, then every four to six weeks for maintenance. If the skin texture is noticeably uneven, a more intensive peel may also be suitable – you'll find an overview under Chemical peel.

After a peel, the skin is more sensitive to light. And any treatment for discolouration loses its effect if the skin is exposed to the sun unprotected. So the rule is: sun protection every day, in winter and on cloudy days, too. Why this matters even in the darker months, you can read in the article Sun protection in winter.

Autumn and winter are a good time to do something about an uneven complexion: the sun is weaker, and the skin can recover calmly after peels.