Skip to main content

We make finding a doctor in the UAE free, transparent, and easy.

Zavis

Microdermabrasion and Hyperpigmentation

How the structures involved in Hyperpigmentation differ from normal
Illustration: How the structures involved in Hyperpigmentation differ from normal

Short answer

Microdermabrasion may improve the look of surface dullness, but hyperpigmentation has deeper triggers and irritation can make dark patches more noticeable.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Potential benefit
A smoother, less dull-looking surface
Key risk
Inflammation may deepen post-inflammatory darkening
First step
Identify the cause of the pigmentation

What the treatment can change

Microdermabrasion removes some surface scale and may make skin look temporarily fresher. It does not switch off pigment production or identify why a patch developed. Post-inflammatory marks, melasma, medication effects, and other causes can look similar but need different plans. New or changing [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/) should be assessed rather than repeatedly exfoliated.

Reduce the chance of worsening marks

Ask a dermatologist to identify the pigment pattern and decide whether microdermabrasion is appropriate. Use gentle skincare, avoid picking, and protect treated areas from sunlight because ultraviolet exposure can sustain darkening. Depending on the cause, options may include a [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/), [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/), [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/), or [Hydroquinone Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-hydroquinone-therapy/).

When to seek assessment

Arrange a medical review for a patch that changes quickly, bleeds, crusts, hurts, itches persistently, or has an irregular border or several colours. Seek help sooner if pigment change follows a severe reaction, blistering, or infection.

Questions for your doctor

Ask what type of pigmentation you have, whether exfoliation could worsen it, and how to prepare your skin. Clarify realistic goals, sun protection, maintenance, and how to respond if treated areas become darker.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Can microdermabrasion remove hyperpigmentation?

It may soften the appearance of some superficial unevenness, but it may not address the cause and is not suitable for every pigment pattern.

Why can marks look darker afterward?

Friction or inflammation can stimulate extra pigment in susceptible skin, especially when sun exposure follows treatment.

Related

Related reading

Keep reading

More on this

Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.