Pigmentation, tan or melasma? How they differ and how they are treated
Tan, melasma and dark marks after acne can look alike but need different care. How they differ, why sunscreen matters, and how treatment usually works.
"Pigmentation" is a word people use for many kinds of dark patches on the skin. In a sunny city like Surat they are among the most common skin concerns. Knowing which kind you have matters, because the care is different for each.
What is a tan?
A tan is the skin darkening to protect itself from the sun. It is usually even, appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, arms and hands, and fades slowly once the skin is protected from the sun.
What is melasma?
Melasma shows up as brown or grey-brown patches, often on both cheeks, the forehead, the nose or above the lip. Sun, heat and hormonal changes - such as pregnancy or some medicines - play a part. It can be improved and kept under control, but it can come back, so it needs patience and steady sun protection.
What are dark marks after acne?
After a pimple heals it can leave a flat dark spot, called post-inflammatory pigmentation. These marks usually fade over months, faster with sun protection and treatment, and fewer form when acne itself is treated early.
Why is sunscreen so important?
Sunlight darkens every kind of pigmentation. Without daily sunscreen, even the best treatment struggles, and patches tend to return. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, reapply when you are outdoors for long, and add a cap or umbrella in strong sun.
How is pigmentation treated?
The first step is finding the type and the cause. Depending on that, the doctor may suggest:
- creams or medicines prescribed for your skin;
- chemical peels to lift dull, pigmented surface skin;
- laser toning sessions for tan, uneven tone and some types of pigmentation;
- changes to your daily routine and sun protection.
Results build over weeks, and most plans include follow-up visits.
What should I avoid?
- Bleaching creams or strong products bought without advice - some can make pigmentation worse or harm the skin.
- Scrubbing dark patches hard.
- Skipping sunscreen on cloudy or indoor days near windows.
Want help with pigmentation in Surat?
At Cure Skin Clinic in Valak Patiya, Surat (124, Mithila Sky, opposite DTC commercial building), Dr Pari Davara looks at your skin first and explains the options, the number of sessions and the cost before you decide. Book a consultation or message us on WhatsApp.
