What is pigmentation, and what causes it?

Pigmentation is an inconsistent discolouration on the skin caused by the over-or underproduction of body pigment called melanin. The overproduction of melanin will see the skin turn darker (hyperpigmentation), while underproduction sees the skin turn lighter (hypopigmentation).

Healthy, undamaged skin cells will appear normal on the surface, but overexposure to the sun, hormonal imbalance or mechanical damage can cause changes to the cells, leading to blotchy discolouration.

What are age spots, and what causes them?

Age spots are small spots on the skin that can range from light brown to black in colour. They often group together and are the same texture as the surrounding skin, ranging in size from freckle-size to half an inch wide.

The skin’s natural ageing process is the most common cause, but genetics, hormones, and sun damage can also cause them to appear.