SKIN CONCERN · BURNABY & VICTORIA, BC
Hyperpigmentation
& Melasma
Uneven skin tone, dark spots, and melasma are among the most stubborn skin concerns — and the most commonly overtreated. At Oak Skin, we take a precise, evidence-based approach that lightens pigmentation safely without damaging your skin barrier.
UNDERSTANDING PIGMENTATION
What causes dark spots and melasma?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain areas of the skin. The cause determines the right treatment — and getting this wrong can make pigmentation worse.
SUN DAMAGE (LENTIGINES)
UV exposure triggers melanocytes to overproduce melanin — creating sun spots, age spots, and freckles that deepen over time without intervention.
VASCULAR PIGMENTATION
Red or purple post-inflammatory marks are vascular in nature, not melanin-based — and require a different treatment approach than brown pigmentation.
HORMONAL MELASAMA
Driven by estrogen and progesterone fluctuations during pregnancy, perimenopause, or from hormonal contraception — melasma requires hormonal as well as topical management.
MEDICATION-INDUCED
Certain medications including NSAIDs, antimalarials, and chemotherapy drugs can trigger pigmentation changes that require specialist assessment.
POST INFLAMMATORY PIGMENTATION
Dark marks left after acne, eczema, or skin trauma — especially common in medium to deeper skin tones — can persist for months without targeted treatment.
NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES
Vitamin B12, folate, and iron deficiencies have been linked to hyperpigmentation — addressable through naturopathic assessment and supplementation.
OUR APPROACH
Pigmentation & Melasma treatment in Burnaby
Safe, effective pigmentation treatment requires identifying the type of pigmentation first. Our team assesses each client individually before recommending any treatment.
Precise · Safe for All Tones
Targets melanin deposits in sun spots, age spots, and post-inflammatory pigmentation with precision — breaking down pigment without harming surrounding skin.
Collagen · Delivery Enhancement
Microneedling channels allow targeted delivery of brightening actives deep into the dermis — dramatically increasing the efficacy of pigmentation-fighting ingredients.
Resurfacing · Even Tone
Medical-grade peels with kojic acid, azelaic acid, and retinoids interrupt melanin production and accelerate cell turnover, revealing more even skin tone progressively.
Hormonal Balance · Root Cause
For hormonal melasma, our naturopathic doctors assess and address the estrogen-progesterone imbalances driving overproduction of melanin from within.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Pigmentation FAQ
Can melasma be permanently removed?
Melasma is a chronic condition that can be significantly lightened and managed, but is prone to recurrence — especially with sun exposure or hormonal changes. Maintenance is key.
How long does it take to see results?
Most patients see visible lightening within 2–4 weeks of their first treatment. A full course of 4–6 sessions combined with medical-grade homecare produces the most significant, lasting results.
Is laser safe for darker skin tones with pigmentation?
Yes — the Aerolase Neo Elite is specifically safe for darker Fitzpatrick types where traditional lasers carry a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. We always assess carefully before treating.
What skincare should I use at home for pigmentation?
SPF 50 daily is non-negotiable for any pigmentation concern. We'll recommend a personalized Epicutis or iS Clinical regimen including brightening actives, antioxidants, and barrier support.
REVEAL EVEN, LUMINOUS SKIN
Even Tone.
Radiant confidence.
Book a pigmentation consultation at Oak Skin and let us identify the right treatment for your specific type of discolouration.