Dark patches, spots and uneven skin tone are among the most common skin worries. If you are searching for pigmentation treatment in Pune, this article explains what pigmentation is, what a dermatologist looks at, and which questions are worth asking before you start.
This article is general health information. It is not a substitute for a consultation.
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation means patches or spots of skin that look darker than the skin around them. The colour comes from melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. When the skin makes more of it in one area, that area looks darker.
Why does it happen?
There is no single cause. Common reasons include:
- sun exposure
- marks left behind after acne, a rash or an injury to the skin
- hormonal changes
- some medicines
- skin inflammation
Melasma is one type of pigmentation, usually seen as patches on the face. It is linked in part to sun exposure and hormones, and it is more common in women.
Is this pigmentation, or something else?
Patches can look alike and still be different. They can have different causes and are treated differently. That is why a dermatologist needs to examine the skin before suggesting any treatment, sometimes with specialised tests such as dermoscopy, and why using a cream or procedure you saw advertised does not always help.
One important exception: a spot or mole that is changing in size, shape or colour, bleeding or itching should be checked by a doctor soon. It is not something to treat as ordinary pigmentation.
What are the treatment options?
After examining your skin, a dermatologist may consider one or more of these:
- Medicated creams and sun protection.
- Chemical peels. CAEFA's chemical peels page lists peels (salicylic acid, glycolic acid, ferulic peel and others) used for pigmentation, dullness, tan and acne marks.
- Laser treatment. Q-Switch Nd:YAG laser is used for pigmentation and tattoo removal. See the lasers page.
Which option, if any, is suitable depends on the kind of pigmentation, your skin and your health. This article cannot say that.
Is laser safe for Indian skin?
Skin colour affects how skin responds to light-based and laser treatments. That is why a doctor assesses your skin first and chooses the treatment and its settings for you. A fair question to ask is: "Why is this treatment suitable for my skin, and what could go wrong?"
Can it burn or darken my skin?
Any treatment can have side effects. They are usually explained at consultation, and may include temporary redness and sensitivity or, in some cases, darkening of the skin. Ask your doctor which ones apply to you and what to do if they happen.
Will the pigmentation come back?
It can. We cannot promise that pigmentation will be completely cured, and there is always a chance it may come back. Sun exposure is a common reason pigmentation returns or deepens, so sun protection matters during and after treatment.
How many visits will I need, and can I go to work after?
Pigmentation treatment usually takes about 4 to 6 sessions, spaced about a month apart. The exact plan, and how much downtime to expect, is made with you at consultation.
Questions to ask at your consultation
- What kind of pigmentation do I have, and what is causing it?
- Is any part of this something that needs a different check, such as a changing mole?
- Which treatment do you suggest for me, and why? What are the alternatives?
- What are the possible side effects for my skin, and what should I do if I see them?
- How many sessions, and how much time away from work or social events should I plan?
- What should I do in daily life (sun protection, products to avoid) during treatment?
- What happens if the pigmentation returns?
- Who will perform the treatment?
Related pages
- Lasers at CAEFA
- Chemical peels at CAEFA
- Skin specialist
- Dr. Mukta Tulpule
- Book an appointment (dermatology line: +91 87888 65704)
Reviewed by Dr. Mukta Tulpule, Consultant Dermatologist, MBBS, DDV. Review date: 12 Nov 2026.
Drafted with AI assistance; reviewed and approved by Dr. Mukta Tulpule.