How to improve uneven skin tone

Patchy tone may come from increased pigment, redness, irritation, or a mixture of these changes. Melasma often appears as recurring facial patches, while sun spots are more localised marks linked with cumulative exposure. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can follow acne, eczema, burns, or cosmetic irritation. Sun-damaged skin may also show uneven colour with changes in texture. The right treatment depends on the colour, pattern, duration, and trigger.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing, and avoid picking or repeatedly irritating the affected skin. A clinician can distinguish melasma, sun spots, post-inflammatory pigment, and other causes before choosing treatment. Options may include a chemical peel, a skin brightening treatment, or an IPL photofacial. Some procedures can worsen pigment if the diagnosis, settings, or aftercare are unsuitable for your skin, so treatment should be personalised.

Book a dermatology assessment if pigmentation is spreading, recurring despite sensible care, itchy, painful, scaly, bleeding, or changing in shape or colour. A single new or changing dark mark deserves examination rather than cosmetic treatment. Seek prompt care for a rapidly changing lesion or a sore that does not heal. A clinician can decide whether examination alone is enough or whether further testing is needed.

Ask what pattern of pigmentation you have, which triggers to avoid, whether a procedure suits your skin type, and how to reduce the chance of pigment returning.