Pigmentation is not one condition
The right treatment depends on the type, the underlying cause, and your skin tone. We assess all three before recommending anything.
Melasma
Hormonal dark patches on cheeks, forehead and upper lip. Often triggered by pregnancy, contraception or sun exposure. One of the most complex types to treat.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Dark marks left after acne spots, ingrown hairs, eczema flares or skin trauma. Particularly common in South Asian, East Asian and Afro-Caribbean skin tones.
Sun spots and age spots
Localised pigment clusters from cumulative UV exposure and photodamage. Present in all skin types. Become more pronounced with age.
Body pigmentation
Dark underarms, elbows, knees and bikini line linked to friction, post-hair removal irritation or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Important if you have South Asian or darker skin
Many laser systems can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in Fitzpatrick IV to VI skin. Heat stimulates melanin production — in higher-melanin skin, the response is stronger. The Cutera Enlighten SR at 1064nm is FDA-cleared for all Fitzpatrick skin types and works through a photoacoustic pressure mechanism rather than heat, significantly reducing that risk. MediGlow treats a significant number of patients from Glasgow's South Asian community across Newton Mearns, Giffnock and Barrhead.
Treatments for pigmentation at MediGlow
MediGlow is Scotland’s first Cutera Enlighten SR clinic, confirmed directly by Cutera. Our approach combines laser technology with prescription clinical care that most aesthetic clinics cannot provide.
Pico laser — PICO Genesis and melasma protocol
The Cutera Enlighten SR delivers picosecond pulses at 532nm and 1064nm to shatter melanin clusters. Used for PICO Genesis full face skin revitalisation, specialist melasma protocol, under-eye pigmentation, PIH and body pigmentation zones. Safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types.
Prescription topical creams
As pharmacist independent prescribers, Pompi and Lalit can prescribe topical treatments including tranexamic acid formulations and compound creams to use alongside laser. This is not available at most aesthetic clinics. For melasma, combining low-fluence picosecond laser with prescription topicals and iron oxide SPF delivers safer and more durable results than laser alone.
AlumierMD chemical peels
Medical-grade chemical peels including the Radiant TXA formulation, specifically developed for pigmentation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Suitable for a range of skin types with appropriate pre-treatment assessment and preparation.
Advanced skin analysis
Our MC10 multi-spectral imager identifies sub-surface pigment not visible to the naked eye. This shapes treatment planning and confirms the type and depth of pigmentation before any treatment begins. Particularly useful for patients with melasma or mixed pigmentation where visual assessment alone can mislead decisions.
The pharmacist prescriber difference
Pompi and Lalit are GPhC-registered independent prescribers. A single appointment at MediGlow can combine laser assessment, prescription topical treatment and medical-grade skincare planning. Prescribing is not a bolt-on service here. It is built into every consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Melasma does not have a single best treatment. At MediGlow, the melasma protocol combines low-fluence picosecond laser on the Cutera Enlighten SR with prescription topicals including tranexamic acid, paired with strict daily photoprotection using iron oxide SPF. This combined approach reduces the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and delivers more durable results than laser alone. A clinical consultation and skin analysis is required before any treatment begins.
Not all lasers are safe for darker skin tones. Heat-based systems carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with Fitzpatrick IV to VI skin. The Cutera Enlighten SR at 1064nm is FDA-cleared for all Fitzpatrick skin types and works through a photoacoustic rather than photothermal mechanism, significantly reducing that risk. MediGlow has specific clinical experience treating South Asian patients with melasma and PIH. All patients require a consultation and patch test before any laser treatment.
This depends on the type and depth of pigmentation. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun spots typically respond in 3 to 5 sessions of pico laser, four weeks apart. Melasma requires a longer-term management approach with combined laser and prescription topicals. AlumierMD chemical peels for pigmentation are usually recommended as a course of 3 to 6 treatments. Your personalised treatment plan will be confirmed at consultation after a full skin assessment and Fitzpatrick typing.
Yes. Friction-induced and post-inflammatory pigmentation in the underarms, elbows, knees and bikini area responds well to picosecond laser treatment combined with prescription topicals and tailored skincare. Multiple sessions are typically needed. We also discuss and address the underlying cause of the pigmentation during consultation to reduce the risk of it recurring.
Client Testimonials
I came to Mediglow to get laser hair removal treatment, and I can’t recommend them enough!!! Pompi is very knowledgeable, friendly and makes you feel so comfortable as a patient. If you were thinking about getting treatment, go to Mediglow Aesthetics & Health!!
Lara Frew
I have been visiting Mediglow Aesthetics for laser hair removal treatments, and after just two sessions, I am already seeing noticeable results. My hair growth has slowed down significantly, and the hair is visibly thinner. The staff are highly professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. They explained the entire process clearly and answered all of my questions patiently, which made me feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the treatment. I’m excited to continue my sessions and can't wait to see the final results after completing all six treatments.
Akshata Shriyan
I recently visited Medi Glow for facial laser hair removal, and I have to say — Pompi and Lalit are an absolute dream team. From the moment you walk in, they create this calm, welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease. What really stood out to me was how thoughtful and attentive they were throughout the entire procedure. They don’t just do the treatment — they guide you through it. Every step is explained, every concern is addressed, and you can genuinely feel how skilled they are in the way they work. Their technique is precise, their approach is gentle, and the comfort they provide is worth every penny. It’s rare to find professionals who combine expertise with such warmth, but these two have mastered it. If you’re considering laser hair removal, trust me — this is the place, and they are the people.
