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Home / Blog / How to Treat Sunspots and Pigmentation Caused by UV Exposure
Annette Harman Nov 17, 2025

How to Treat Sunspots and Pigmentation Caused by UV Exposure

Laser and IPL technology used to treat sunspots and UV pigmentation at Vitality Laser Skin

Living in Australia means sunshine is part of our everyday lifestyle, but it also means our skin is exposed to some of the harshest UV radiation in the world. Over time, this can lead to sunspots, uneven pigmentation, and a dull, uneven complexion.

The good news is that pigmentation caused by UV damage can be treated safely with the right combination of professional treatments, targeted skincare, and consistent prevention. At Vitality Laser Skin, our university-qualified dermal clinicians take a diagnostic approach, looking at the type, depth, and behaviour of your pigmentation before creating a personalised treatment plan.

In this guide, we break down what sunspots actually are, what causes them, and the most effective ways to target UV-induced pigmentation so your skin can look clearer, brighter, and more even-toned.


What Are Sunspots and Why Do They Happen?

Sunspots (also known as solar lentigines or age spots) are flat, brown patches that develop when your skin produces excess melanin after repeated UV exposure.

UV light accelerates melanocyte activity, which leads to:

  • Dark spots
  • Patchy or uneven colour
  • Diffuse “mottled” pigmentation
  • Premature skin ageing

For many Australians, sunspots appear on:

  • The face
  • Hands
  • Chest
  • Shoulders
  • Forearms

These areas receive the most year-round sun, making them particularly prone to UV damage.


Why Pigmentation Looks Worse Over Time

Even with good skincare habits, pigmentation often appears more noticeable because:

  • Previous UV damage accumulates and resurfaces
  • The skin’s natural renewal process slows with age
  • Hormonal changes can worsen colour
  • Inflammation and heat exposure can trigger flare-ups

This is why a combined approach works best. Treating pigmentation isn’t about one magic solution, it’s about understanding the root cause and using evidence-based therapies that target the pigment safely.


The Most Effective Treatments for UV-Induced Pigmentation

At Vitality Laser Skin, our dermal clinicians assess your pigmentation through a detailed skin consultation before recommending the safest, most effective options.

Below are the top treatments that can help brighten, smooth, and even your skin tone.


1. Limelight IPL

One of the most effective non-invasive options for sunspots and UV damage.

Benefits include:

  • Targets brown pigment in sunspots
  • Helps reduce redness and broken capillaries
  • Brightens overall skin tone
  • Minimal downtime

IPL uses broad-spectrum light that is selectively absorbed by melanin. The pigment darkens temporarily, then gradually flakes away, revealing a clearer complexion.


2. Laser Genesis

Gentle, heat-based laser ideal for diffuse pigmentation and overall skin rejuvenation.

Benefits:

  • Improves tone and texture
  • Helps reduce redness and pigmentation from inflammation
  • Boosts collagen for a smoother complexion
  • Zero downtime

It’s perfect for clients who want a progressive, long-term skin-refreshing approach.


3. Chemical Peels

Evidence-based peels help dissolve dull, damaged surface cells and fade pigmentation gradually.

What they help with:

  • Uneven texture
  • Dullness
  • Mild to moderate pigmentation
  • Early sun damage

Peels are often combined with laser or IPL for enhanced results.


4. Medical-Grade Skincare

Consistent home care is essential for maintaining results and preventing pigment from returning.

Dermal clinicians often recommend ingredients such as:

  • Vitamin C to brighten and strengthen the skin
  • Niacinamide to reduce inflammation and regulate pigment activity
  • Retinol (if suitable) to speed up cell turnover
  • Pigment regulators like tyrosinase inhibitors
  • Broad-spectrum SPF every single day

SPF is your non-negotiable. Without sun protection, pigmentation will always return.


Long-Term Prevention for UV Pigmentation

To protect the progress you make, we recommend the following daily habits:

Wear SPF 50 every morning

Even on cloudy days. Even indoors. UV penetrates glass and clouds.

Reapply sunscreen every 2–4 hours

Especially if outdoors or wearing makeup.

Wear a broad-brim hat and sunglasses

Simple, effective protection.

Choose gentle skincare

Avoid harsh scrubs or DIY treatments which can inflame the skin and worsen pigmentation.

Stay consistent

Pigmentation takes time to develop… and time to fade. Consistency is everything.


Why Choose Vitality Laser Skin for Pigmentation Treatment

With over 20 years of experience and university-qualified dermal clinicians, our approach is built on:

  • Gold-standard technology
  • Evidence-based treatment planning
  • Advanced diagnostic skin analysis
  • Holistic, long-term results
  • Warm, personalised care

Every pigmentation journey is unique, and we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. Your plan is tailored to your skin type, the depth of your pigmentation, and your long-term skin goals.

Book Your Skin Consultation

If you’re ready to treat UV-induced pigmentation safely and effectively, our team is here to guide you.

Book a professional skin consultation today and begin your journey toward clearer, brighter, more even-toned skin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to Treat Sunspots and Pigmentation Caused by UV Exposure
What causes sunspots and pigmentation from UV exposure? Plus

Sunspots, also known as solar lentigines, develop when your skin produces extra melanin in response to repeated UV exposure. Over time, this can create flat brown marks and uneven colour on areas that see the most sun, such as the face, chest, shoulders, and hands. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, so sun-induced pigmentation is very common here. A professional assessment can help determine which type of pigmentation you have and which treatments are most suitable.
Can sunspots and UV pigmentation be permanently removed? Plus

Pigmentation caused by sun exposure can usually be lightened significantly, and in some cases individual spots may clear, but no treatment can guarantee permanent removal. Your skin will always remember past UV exposure, and new sunspots can appear if protection is not consistent. The most effective approach blends in clinic treatments like IPL, laser, or peels with daily SPF, pigment-regulating skincare, and regular check ins with a dermal clinician to help maintain your results over time.
What are the best treatments for sun-induced pigmentation? Plus

The best treatment depends on the type, depth, and pattern of your pigmentation. Common options include IPL for sunspots and diffuse sun damage, gentle lasers that support overall tone and texture, and chemical peels to lift dull surface cells. These are often supported by medical grade skincare that targets pigment pathways and inflammation. At Vitality Laser Skin, a dermal clinician will assess your skin and design a plan that is tailored to your concerns, skin type, and lifestyle.
How many pigmentation treatments will I need to see a difference? Plus

Most people notice visible changes after a course of treatments rather than a single session. The number of sessions depends on the severity of your sun damage, the technology used, and how your skin responds. Some clients see improvement after just a few visits, while others require a more gradual, long term plan. During your consultation, your clinician will talk through realistic timeframes, spacing between visits, and how to support your results at home with skincare and sun protection.
Is it safe to treat pigmentation if I have sensitive skin? Plus

Yes, many pigmentation treatments can be adapted for sensitive or reactive skin, but it is essential to start with a careful assessment. Your clinician will review your skin history, current products, and any previous reactions before recommending a plan. Often this begins with strengthening the skin barrier, introducing gentle actives, and choosing lower intensity or progressive treatments. Patch testing and a gradual approach help ensure that your skin is treated safely and comfortably.
How can I prevent new sunspots and pigmentation from forming? Plus

The most important step is daily sun protection. Apply a broad spectrum SPF 50 every morning, reapply during the day if you are outdoors or near windows, and pair this with hats, sunglasses, and shade when possible. Supporting your skin with antioxidants, pigment regulating ingredients, and a healthy barrier also helps reduce the impact of UV and environmental stress. Even on cooler or cloudy days, consistent protection is key to slowing new sunspots and maintaining treatment results.