Hyperpigmentation affects all skin tones — but in skin of colour (including Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, African, and Afro-Caribbean skin tones), it often appears differently and can be more stubborn to treat.
In melanin-rich skin, even mild irritation can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — dark patches that develop after inflammation, breakouts, shaving, bug bites, or skin injury.
Other common types of pigmentation include:
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Melasma – linked to hormones, heat, and sun exposure
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Sun spots – caused by long-term UV damage
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Uneven skin tone – triggered by hormonal changes, irritation, or trauma
Why Hyperpigmentation in Darker Skin Needs Specialist Care
Darker skin contains more active melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells in the skin). When the skin is stressed or inflamed, melanocytes can overproduce pigment, leading to stubborn dark marks.
This means:
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Some chemical peels and laser treatments used on lighter skin can worsen pigmentation in darker skin if used incorrectly
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Irritating skincare can trigger new pigmentation
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Many popular pigment-lightening products are either too harsh or ineffective
At Injectual, we never take a “one-size-fits-all” approach. We use safe, evidence-based treatments that are clinically proven to work in melanin-rich skin.
The Injectual Two-Step Approach
Step 1 – Prevention
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Wear SPF 30 or higher every single day
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Avoid skin trauma (picking, harsh scrubbing, aggressive exfoliation)
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Introduce active skincare ingredients slowly
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Use barrier-supportive, non-irritating products
Step 2 – Safe, Proven Pigmentation Treatments
Once prevention is in place, we target existing pigmentation using treatments proven for skin of colour.
Pigmentation Treatments for Skin of Colour at Injectual London
1. Cosmelan® Depigmentation System
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A medical-grade pigmentation peel and homecare system
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Reduces melasma, sun damage, and stubborn pigmentation
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Suitable for all skin tones when performed by trained professionals
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Works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin production
2. Medical-Grade Skincare (including Hydroquinone-based regimes)
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Hydroquinone and other prescription-strength pigment correctors are gold standard for stubborn pigmentation
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Always prescribed and monitored by experienced practitioners
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Can be combined with in-clinic treatments for faster, longer-lasting results
3. Laser Treatments Safe for Darker Skin
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We only use advanced laser technologies designed for melanin-rich skin
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Targets pigmentation without excessive heat build-up, reducing the risk of PIH
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Particularly effective for sun spots and certain types of PIH when used by experienced hands
4. Chemical Peels for Skin of Colour (including PRX-T33)
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PRX-T33 is a no-downtime chemical peel that brightens and smooths without the risk of post-peel hyperpigmentation
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All peels are carefully selected to suit darker skin and avoid rebound pigmentation
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Can be combined with other treatments for enhanced results
5. Polynucleotides
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Regenerate damaged skin and improve overall tone and texture
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Support cellular repair and reduce pigmentation caused by inflammation
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Promote long-term skin health, making pigment fade more evenly
Mistakes to Avoid if You Have Pigmentation
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Over-exfoliating or layering too many strong actives
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Skipping patch tests for new products
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Using lightening creams without professional guidance
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Assuming what works for lighter skin will work for darker skin
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Not wearing daily SPF
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Pigmentation is stubborn and requires patience.
With the right combination of treatments and skincare, most clients see noticeable improvement within 6–12 weeks, though several sessions may be required for optimal results.
Book Your Skin of Colour Pigmentation Consultation at Injectual London
At Injectual, we treat pigmentation in skin of colour with expertise, precision, and a customised plan.
Your consultation will include:
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A full skin analysis and review of your pigmentation history
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A tailored treatment and skincare plan for your skin tone
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Expert guidance on prevention and long-term maintenance
Book your consultation today and take the first step towards brighter, more even-toned skin — safely.
