Evidence-based treatments to reduce excess pigmentation

Managing Skin Discoloration

Pigmentation & Sun Damage Treatments in Oakville

Uneven skin tone, dark spots, and sun damage can leave your complexion looking tired or older than you feel. Whether caused by sun exposure, hormones, or inflammation, pigmentation concerns are incredibly common—and highly treatable.

Pigmentation occurs when the skin produces too much melanin in certain areas, leading to patches that are darker than the surrounding skin.

At Merrion Medical Aesthetics, Dr. Kate Healy works with you to restore brightness, clarity, and balance to your skin using science-backed, medical-grade skincare and targeted in-clinic solutions.

Areas where pigmentation and sun damage tend to appear most visibly

Common Areas Affected

Face (cheeks, forehead, upper lip)

These high-exposure areas are often the first to show sun damage and dark spots. Hyperpigmentation in the form of melasma, freckles, or uneven tone commonly appears across the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip.

Décolleté

The chest area is frequently overlooked in skincare but gets just as much sun exposure as the face. Over time, this results in pigmentation, redness, and skin thinning, making sun damage more visible.

Hands

The hands are constantly exposed to the elements and rarely protected with SPF. Age spots and pigmentation often appear here, revealing sun damage and aging even when facial skin is well maintained.

Shoulders

Especially in warmer seasons, the shoulders are regularly exposed to UV rays. Pigmentation and freckles here can deepen and multiply over time without sun protection or corrective treatment.

Merrion Medical Aesthetics Oakville Founder

Dr. Kate Healy

"Pigmentation is one of the most satisfying skin concerns to treat because patients begin to see real brightness and clarity return. With the right tools and medical guidance, your skin can look beautifully even and glowing again.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes pigmentation to appear or get worse?

Pigmentation can result from sun exposure, hormonal changes (like during pregnancy), acne scars, or injury. UV light is the most common cause, and even a little exposure can worsen existing pigmentation.

Are pigmentation treatments safe for all skin types?

Yes. At Merrion, we select treatments that are safe and effective for your unique skin type and tone. Dr. Kate tailors every protocol to minimize risk and maximize results.

How long does it take to see improvement in pigmentation?

You may start to see a brighter, more even tone in 2 to 4 weeks, especially with consistent at-home skincare. Full results typically develop over 6–12 weeks, depending on the treatment used.

Will pigmentation come back after treatment?

It can, especially if you're not using sun protection. Daily SPF and maintenance products are essential to keep pigmentation under control and preserve your results.

What’s the difference between melasma and sun spots?

Melasma is usually hormone-related and appears as larger, blotchy patches—often on the upper lip or cheeks. Sun spots (also called age spots) are typically smaller, round, and directly linked to sun exposure.

Do I need a prescription to use medical-grade skincare?

In many cases, yes. Products like ZO Skin Health Retinol and brightening serums are only available through a licensed medical provider like Dr. Kate. We’ll guide you on how to use them safely and effectively.

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