Melasma — sometimes known as chloasma or the pregnancy mask — is a common skin condition that causes brown or greyish patches of pigmentation, most often appearing on the face. These patches can develop gradually and are usually symmetrical, affecting areas like the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin.

Melasma most commonly affects women, especially during pregnancy or while taking hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy. However, it can also appear in men. The condition is more frequently seen in people with darker skin tones or those who tan easily, but it can occur in anyone.

Why Melasma Happens

The exact cause of melasma isn’t fully understood. It is thought to involve overactivity of melanocytes — the pigment-producing cells in the skin — which start to produce too much melanin, the natural pigment that gives our skin its colour.

Several factors can trigger or worsen melasma, including:

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can all stimulate melanocytes.

• Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun — or from sunbeds and phototherapy — is one of the most significant triggers. Even brief exposure can cause melasma to darken or spread.

• Skin type: People with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III–VI) and those who tan quickly are more prone.

• Genetics: Family history can play a role.

Melasma often becomes more visible in the summer months due to increased UV exposure, and may fade slightly in the winter.

How We Can Help at Zolu

At Zolu Medical Aesthetics, we understand how emotionally challenging melasma can be. While there isn’t a permanent cure, modern medical and aesthetic treatments can significantly reduce pigmentation and help keep it under control.

Our personalised treatment plans may include:

✅ Medical-grade skincare: Products from trusted brands like ZO Skin Health, designed to reduce melanin production, lighten existing pigment, and protect the skin barrier.

✅ Chemical peels: Gentle, carefully selected peels that help to break down excess pigment and even out skin tone.

✅ Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production and can help fade pigment over time.

✅ WOW Facial® & WOW Fusion®: Advanced skin treatments combining microneedling and tailored serums to improve pigmentation, radiance, and skin health.

✅ LED light therapy: Uses specific wavelengths to calm inflammation and support the skin’s healing process.

✅ Sun protection advice: Since UV exposure is the main trigger, daily high SPF use is an essential part of any plan.

Your Journey with Us

Every case of melasma is unique. During your consultation at Zolu, we’ll carry out a detailed skin assessment to understand your skin type, lifestyle, and triggers. Together, we’ll create a bespoke treatment plan to help restore a brighter, clearer complexion — and support you every step of the way.

Sunspots — also known as liver spots, freckles, or solar lentigos — are small, flat areas of increased pigmentation that often appear on parts of the body most exposed to the sun: the face, neck, décolletage, and backs of the hands. These spots may look patchy or scattered, and while harmless, they’re a clear sign of chronic sun exposure over time.

Why Sunspots Appear

Sunspots form when the skin’s pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) create too much melanin in response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun (or tanning beds). Unlike birthmarks, these spots develop gradually, often becoming more noticeable with age or after repeated sun exposure.

Recognising Signs of Photo damage

Photodamage (also called photoageing or sun damage) isn’t limited to sunspots. UV exposure affects the skin’s deeper structures too, leading to visible changes that can begin as early as your teens or twenties, including:

✔ Fine lines and wrinkles – caused by the breakdown of collagen and elastin

✔ Pigmentation changes – age spots, solar lentigines, freckles, and uneven skin tone

✔ Loss of elasticity – skin may appear thinner or feel less firm

✔ Rough or uneven texture – skin can look dry, leathery, or coarse

✔ Broken capillaries (spider veins) – small, visible vessels often seen around the nose, cheeks, and chest

✔ Redness and blotchiness – chronic redness or flushed areas, especially on the face and décolletage

How We Treat Sunspots & Photodamage at Zolu

At Zolu Medical Aesthetics, we combine clinical expertise with advanced technologies to restore healthier, clearer, and more radiant skin. Your personalised plan may include:

✨ Medical-grade skincare – Using trusted ranges like ZO Skin Health to help fade pigmentation, repair skin barrier function, and protect against future damage.

✨ Chemical peels – Target uneven pigmentation and improve skin texture by encouraging gentle resurfacing.

✨ Microneedling – Stimulates collagen production, softens fine lines, and evens out skin tone.

✨ WOW Facial® & WOW Fusion® – Advanced, multi-step treatments combining gentle exfoliation, skin rejuvenation, and tailored serums to brighten and revitalise sun-damaged skin.

✨ LED light therapy – Reduces inflammation, supports collagen production, and promotes a healthier glow.

Prevention Is Key

Since sunspots and photodamage are directly linked to UV exposure, daily sun protection is essential — even on cloudy days. We’ll help guide you on choosing the right high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and creating a routine that fits your lifestyle.

Book Your Consultation

If you’ve started noticing sunspots, freckles, or other signs of photodamage, you don’t have to accept them as permanent. At Zolu Medical Aesthetics, we offer a warm, professional approach and clinically proven treatments to help restore your skin’s clarity and confidence.

Contact us today to arrange your personalised consultation.

Post-inflammatory pigmentation (PIH) is a common skin concern that appears as darkened patches of skin following inflammation or injury. While not harmful, it can be frustrating, especially when it affects the face or other visible areas. At Zolu, we offer clinically proven treatments to reduce pigmentation and restore a clear, even skin tone.

What Is Post-Inflammatory Pigmentation - PIH

PIH is caused by increased melanin production — the pigment responsible for skin colour — in response to inflammation or trauma. It can occur after:

• Acne (especially cystic or inflamed spots)

• Eczema or psoriasis flare-ups

• Cuts, burns, or insect bites

• Skin irritation or sensitivity

• Certain cosmetic procedures

Even a single breakout or mild irritation can leave behind stubborn marks, especially in medium to deeper skin tones. Though PIH often fades over time, it can linger for several months or even longer without treatment.

How We Treat PIH at Zolu

Our approach is always personalised and considers your skin tone, cause of pigmentation, and sensitivity. We offer a combination of in-clinic treatments and medical-grade skincare to fade pigmentation safely and effectively:

🌿 Medical-grade skincare – Using trusted brands like ZO Skin Health, we create custom routines with active ingredients such as retinol, glycolic acid, niacinamide, and pigment inhibitors to gently brighten and even skin tone.

🌿 Chemical peels – Light-to-medium depth peels accelerate cell turnover, breaking down pigment and revealing healthier skin underneath.

🌿 Microneedling – Stimulates natural skin renewal and improves texture, helping to lift deeper pigmentation over time.

🌿 WOW Facial® & WOW Fusion® – These advanced multi-step treatments combine gentle exfoliation, rejuvenation, and targeted serums to calm inflammation and correct discolouration.

🌿 LED Light Therapy – Non-invasive red and blue light wavelengths support skin healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance skin clarity.

Consistency is Key

While PIH often improves with time, consistent treatment and professional guidance can dramatically speed up results. Preventing further irritation, avoiding sun exposure, and using tailored skincare at home are all vital steps in managing post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Let Us Help You Feel Clear and Confident

At Zolu Medical Aesthetics, we understand that pigmentation issues can affect your confidence. Whether your marks are from acne, eczema, or past skin trauma, we’ll design a bespoke plan to support your skin’s recovery and help you achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward clearer skin.

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