Pigmentation can have several different causes

Sunlight is the most common cause

UV radiation is one of the main causes of pigmentation marks. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, pigment cells produce extra melanin as a natural form of protection. This mechanism works well as long as the pigment is distributed evenly. After years of sun exposure, however, pigment cells can begin to work less evenly. This leads to local build-ups that show as pigmentation marks. It also explains why pigmentation marks often appear on parts of the face that see a lot of sun, such as the cheeks, nose, temples and forehead. Daily protection with sun protection for the face therefore remains one of the most important ways to help prevent new pigmentation.

Hormones can make pigment cells more active

For many women, hormones play an important role in the appearance of pigmentation marks. During periods when hormone levels change, pigment cells can respond more sensitively to sunlight and other triggers. We see this, for example, during:

– Pregnancy
– Using hormonal contraception
– The menopause
– Hormonal fluctuations throughout life

A well-known form of hormonal pigmentation is melasma. This tends to produce larger, symmetrical patches on the upper lip, cheeks or forehead. Hormonal changes also play a part in other skin changes. You can read more about this in how your skin changes during the menopause [How your skin changes during the menopause].

Inflammation can leave pigmentation behind

Not every pigmentation mark is caused by the sun. Inflammation in the skin can lead to pigmentation too. When the skin is damaged by acne, small wounds, eczema or irritation, for example, it responds with a healing process. During that process, pigment cells can become extra active, leaving dark marks behind after the original concern has already cleared. This form is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. People who regularly experience blemishes often recognise it as dark marks that remain visible after a spot has cleared. It is common in adults with acne. In recognising hormonal acne on your face you can read more about this form of acne.

Skin ageing also plays a part

Pigmentation marks often become more visible as we grow older. This is not only because the skin has seen years of sun, but also because pigment cells work less evenly over time. Natural skin renewal also slows down. As a result, areas of built-up pigment stay visible for longer and fade less readily on their own.
That is why we often see pigmentation alongside other signs of skin ageing, such as fine lines, a loss of firmness and a less even complexion. You can read more about this in what do you notice about these signs of skin ageing? [What do you notice about these signs of skin ageing?].

Heat can intensify existing pigmentation

Many people think only of sunlight, but heat can affect pigment formation too. Heat stimulates certain processes in the skin that can make pigment cells more active. As a result, existing pigmentation marks can sometimes darken during:

– Saunas
– Sunny holidays
– Intensive sunbathing
– Prolonged exposure to heat
Hormonal pigmentation in particular often responds sensitively to this.

Why some people are more prone than others

Not everyone develops pigmentation marks as quickly. Hereditary predisposition plays an important part. Some people naturally have more active pigment cells or respond more strongly to sunlight and hormonal changes. Skin type matters too. In skin that naturally contains more pigment, pigmentation marks can appear more readily and remain visible for longer. This does not mean pigmentation is inevitable, but it does mean prevention is especially important for some people.

Often several causes act at once

In practice, pigmentation rarely comes from a single factor. Different causes often reinforce one another. A common example is a woman who becomes more prone to pigmentation during the menopause, then spends a lot of time in the sun and also has skin that recovers less quickly than it used to. Acne, hormonal changes and sun exposure frequently occur together too. This is exactly why it is important to look not only at the visible pigmentation mark, but at the skin’s fuller story.

What this means for tackling pigmentation

Because pigmentation can have different causes, there is no single solution that works for everyone. The most effective approach begins with identifying the cause. From there, you can consider protection, active ingredients and treatments that suit your situation. Ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol and niacinamide are widely used to help even out the complexion and support the skin against uneven pigmentation. You can read more about this in:

– vitamin C for a more even and radiant complexion [Vitamin C for a more even and radiant complexion]
– retinol for skin ageing and skin renewal [Retinol for skin ageing and skin renewal]
– niacinamide for redness, acne and skin recovery [Niacinamide for redness, acne and skin recovery]

Brightening serums are also often an important part of a routine focused on pigmentation.

When a treatment can help

Sometimes skincare products alone are not enough to visibly reduce pigmentation marks. Professional facial treatments can then help to support the skin more intensively. For pigmentation, Natura Bissé Diamond Luminous is a popular choice. This treatment focuses on improving the skin’s radiance and supports a more even complexion. During a skin analysis, we look at which factors play a role in your pigmentation, so that a treatment better matches your skin’s needs.

Frequently asked questions about the causes of pigmentation

Is sunlight always the cause of pigmentation marks?
No. Although sunlight is an important cause, hormones, inflammation, skin damage and skin ageing can also cause pigmentation marks.

Can hormones cause pigmentation marks?
Yes. During pregnancy, while using contraception and during the menopause in particular, hormones can make pigment cells more sensitive.

Why do I get pigmentation marks after acne?
Inflammation can activate pigment cells. This can leave dark marks behind after a spot has cleared.

Why do pigmentation marks often come back?
When the underlying cause remains, such as sun exposure or hormonal fluctuations, pigmentation marks can form again or darken.