The right treatment depends on the type of pigmentation, its depth, its cause and your skin tone. Sun spots, melasma and post-inflammatory marks do not necessarily respond to the same approaches. During your consultation at our Vancouver clinics, our team evaluates your skin and recommends suitable options. Your personalized plan may combine in-clinic treatments with targeted skincare and daily sun protection.

Melasma does not always have an obvious hormonal cause. It can develop in people who are not pregnant or taking hormonal contraceptives, including men. Some people have a genetic predisposition that makes their pigment-producing cells more reactive to environmental triggers, particularly sunlight and visible light. This is why understanding your personal history, skin characteristics and everyday exposures is important when identifying potential contributing factors.

Melasma is considered a chronic condition because the cells responsible for producing pigment can remain sensitive to triggers even after the visible patches have faded. Sun exposure, visible light and hormonal changes may reactivate pigmentation. While treatment can lighten existing patches, it does not eliminate this underlying tendency. Daily sun protection, appropriate skincare and ongoing maintenance can help reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Yes. Brightening serums containing vitamin C, azelaic acid or tranexamic acid can gradually help improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation. Hydroquinone is another well-established ingredient that works by reducing melanin production. It may be used to address concerns such as melasma, sun spots and post-inflammatory marks.

In Canada, topical hydroquinone concentrations above 2% require a prescription. Because hydroquinone can cause irritation and is generally intended for limited periods of use, guidance from a physician or healthcare professional is important to determine whether it is appropriate for your skin. Consistent sun protection also remains essential throughout treatment.

Side effects vary depending on the treatment and your skin's response. Temporary redness, mild swelling, peeling, increased sensitivity or temporary darkening of treated spots may occur after certain procedures. Less common complications include blistering, infection and changes in pigmentation, such as darker or lighter patches.

Some treatments may also be unsuitable during pregnancy, following recent sun exposure or when the skin is actively irritated or infected. Your specialist will review the relevant risks, contraindications and aftercare instructions before recommending a procedure.

The number of sessions depends on the type and depth of pigmentation, the treatment selected and how your skin responds. Some isolated sun spots may improve after relatively few sessions, while melasma and more widespread pigmentation often require a longer-term approach. When multiple sessions are recommended, they are generally spaced several weeks apart. Your treatment plan will outline the expected timeline, possible results and recommended maintenance.

Yes. Many approaches can be adapted to medium and deep skin tones, but treatment selection requires particular care. Skin with higher melanin levels can be more susceptible to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation following irritation or excessive heat.

For this reason, gentler approaches and carefully selected treatment settings may be recommended. A personalized assessment helps determine which options are appropriate for your skin tone while minimizing the risk of unwanted pigmentation changes.