Spots and areas of pigmentation on the face or body may become more noticeable after the summer months. Autumn can therefore be a suitable time to assess these changes and develop a personalized skincare or treatment plan. However, not every dark area is the same type of pigmentation. Identifying the underlying cause is essential before beginning treatment.
Sunlight can darken certain types of pigmentation, particularly melasma, and contribute to their recurrence after treatment. As intense sun exposure and time spent outdoors often decrease during autumn, it may be easier to follow recommended skincare routines and protect the skin after dermatological procedures.
However, this does not mean that sunscreen is unnecessary during autumn or winter. Daily sun protection should continue throughout the year, including on cloudy days. For melasma and other pigmentation concerns, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is generally recommended. Tinted sunscreens containing iron oxide may also help protect against visible light, which can worsen melasma.
Melasma, sunspots, and the dark marks that remain after acne develop for different reasons and may require different treatment approaches. Even areas that appear similar can have different underlying causes.
A new, changing, or unusual pigmented lesion should not automatically be considered a cosmetic concern. A dermatological examination may be necessary before any skincare product or cosmetic procedure is recommended.
No. Treatment depends on the type and depth of the pigmentation, the individual’s skin type, sun exposure, and tendency to develop post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Depending on the assessment, treatment may include:
Daily sun protection
A personalized skincare routine
Prescription topical treatments
Chemical peels
Laser or light-based procedures
Laser treatments and chemical peels are not suitable for every patient or every type of pigmentation. Particular caution is required when treating melasma or pigmentation-prone skin, as excessive irritation or inappropriate treatment settings can make discoloration worse. A dermatologist should determine whether these procedures are appropriate for the individual’s skin.
The value of autumn lies not in performing the same procedure on everyone, but in assessing the skin after summer, establishing an accurate diagnosis, and beginning a sustainable treatment plan.
The most appropriate timing and treatment method are determined during the dermatological examination according to the type of pigmentation, skin characteristics, and the individual’s daily sun exposure.
Dr. Armin Müştak’s Dermatology Practice
Çankaya, Ankara