Ahhh, pigmentation. We all dread it.

I remember my very first (and last) patch of pigmentation. Many years ago, I was going through a hormonal breakout on holiday and had the not-so-bright idea of applying acids to my skin, then going straight into the sun. I thought, “this will surely stop this breakout from happening.” I knew little about skin, and even less about skincare, so I had no idea what I was doing to myself.

As the holiday came to an end, I noticed I couldn’t quite remove foundation from one of my cheeks. I rubbed and rubbed, only to realise that shadow was not going anywhere. Pigmentation had appeared. Needless to say, as soon as I got back home, I treated it.

There are 4 main types of pigmentation:

As summer comes to an end, it is time to treat any pigmentation the sun may have caused. In this blog, I’ll focus on Sun Spots: how we get them, and most importantly, how to get rid of them.

Sun Spots or Solar Lentigines

Sun Spots are the most common type of pigmentation. They are caused by sun exposure and can largely be avoided by being strict with SPF.

Most SPFs need reapplying every 2 hours, and many of us aren’t always careful while enjoying our holiday. But if we want to avoid sun spots, it is crucial to be vigilant with SPF at the beginning of the holiday, when skin is paler, more fragile, and more prone to burning.

How to Prevent Sun Spots

With any type of pigmentation, prevention is key. Biologique Recherche’s Solar Care system helps by preparing skin before exposure, protecting it during exposure, and repairing it after exposure.

Step 1:

Two months before your holiday, replace your normal daily moisturiser with Preparation U.V. It helps prepare skin for UV exposure by boosting melanin synthesis and reducing oxidation. It contains melanin-activating tripeptide, marine diatom extract, and antioxidants.

Step 2:

At your destination, replace your normal cream with Protection U.V. It protects against UVA, UVB, and infrared radiation, and also includes anti-ageing and anti-pigmentation ingredients.

Step 3:

After returning home, use Reparation U.V. for 2 months to repair, nourish, and support brighter, longer-lasting glow.

How to Treat Sun Spots

Golden rule: treat pigmentation as soon as possible.

Think of pigmentation like a tree with roots. When the tree is young, roots are easier to remove. As it matures, roots become stronger and harder to shift.

Sun spot stages:

Young sun spots are the easiest to treat. We recommend a 3-step program:

Step 1:

Lotion P50 PIGM 400. This exfoliator includes AHAs, BHAs, PHAs, Palmaria Palmata extract, and a flavonoid fruit complex to target pigmentation.

Step 2:

Serum PIGM 400. A high-potency anti-pigmentation serum that targets existing marks and helps prevent recurrence. It can be drying, so pair with a hydrating serum.

Step 3:

Creme PIGM 400. Works with Serum PIGM 400 to seal and boost results.

This treatment should be combined with your usual skincare routine and finished fully, like a course of antibiotics. A full course should last no more than 3 months.

Middle-aged sun spots are more stubborn. You may need two courses, and you can boost with Creme aux Acides de Fruits on pigmented areas at night for deeper exfoliation.

Mature sun spots are difficult to treat at home. If pigmentation is older than 5 years, laser treatments are often the most effective option.

After intensive treatments, skin can feel fragile. Emulsion Gel Biosensible and Emulsion Originelle Regenerante can help soothe and repair recovery skin.

Pigmentation is complex and can be triggered by sun, hormones, pollution, and acne. Stay tuned for our next piece on other pigmentation types:

As always, we’re a personalised brand. If you have any questions, email us at concierge@embassyofbeauty.co.uk or call us on 020 3358 9998. We’re always happy to advise and consult.