Uneven skin tone occurs when areas of the skin appear darker or lighter than the surrounding complexion. Common causes include sun exposure, hormonal changes, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and ageing. Although uneven tone can appear anywhere on the body, it is often most noticeable on the face, neck, chest and hands.

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What Does Uneven Skin Tone Look Like?

Uneven skin tone can appear as:

• Dark spots or patches
• Areas of lighter skin
• Sun spots or age spots
• Marks left behind after blemishes or injuries
• Patchy or inconsistent skin colour

Uneven skin tone refers specifically to differences in colour. Uneven skin texture, such as dry patches, enlarged pores or roughness, is a separate concern, although the two can occur together.

What Causes Uneven Skin Tone?

Several internal and external factors can affect pigment production and lead to an uneven complexion.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is one of the most common causes of uneven skin tone. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, it produces more melanin (the pigment responsible for skin colour) as part of its natural defence response.

Over time, repeated exposure can cause excess pigment to collect in certain areas, resulting in sun spots and patches of hyperpigmentation. Daily sun protection can help prevent existing pigmentation from becoming more noticeable and reduce the risk of further damage.

Hormonal Changes

Changes in hormone levels can affect melanin production and cause areas of increased pigmentation. This may occur during pregnancy, menopause or when using hormonal contraception.

Melasma is a common type of pigmentation associated with hormonal changes. It typically appears as symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches, often across the cheeks, forehead or upper lip. Sun exposure can make this pigmentation appear more noticeable.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as PIH, can develop after the skin has experienced inflammation or injury. Common triggers include blemishes, cuts, burns and irritation. As the skin heals, it may produce excess melanin, leaving a darker mark behind. These marks are not scars and may gradually fade, although sun exposure can darken them and make them last longer.

Avoid picking or squeezing blemishes, as this can increase inflammation and the likelihood of marks developing.

Ageing

Changes in skin tone become more common with age because the skin has experienced more cumulative exposure to sunlight and environmental damage. Pigment-producing cells can also become less evenly distributed over time, contributing to sun spots, age spots and a more uneven-looking complexion. As the skin becomes thinner, existing areas of discolouration may appear more visible.

Genetics

Genetics can influence your natural skin tone, how your skin responds to sun exposure and how likely you are to develop certain pigmentation concerns. Some people may be naturally more prone to freckles, melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. However, environmental factors and skincare habits can still affect how visible these concerns become.

Skin Irritation

Harsh skincare products, over-exfoliation and unsuitable treatments can damage the skin barrier and cause inflammation. For some skin tones, this irritation may trigger excess pigment production and leave darker patches behind.

Introducing active ingredients gradually and avoiding unnecessary irritation can help protect the skin.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Smoking, pollution, stress and a lack of sleep can affect the overall health and appearance of the skin. While these factors may not directly cause pigmentation, they can contribute to a dull, tired or less even-looking complexion.

How Can You Improve the Appearance of Uneven Skin Tone?

The right approach will depend on the cause of the discolouration, but the following steps may help:

• Apply a broad-spectrum SPF every day
• Avoid picking or squeezing blemishes
• Use gentle, consistent skincare
• Introduce brightening or exfoliating ingredients gradually
• Keep the skin hydrated and support its natural barrier
• Speak to a qualified therapist about suitable professional treatments

Professional Treatments for Uneven Skin Tone

Professional exfoliating treatments, such as SkinBase Microdermabrasion or Hydro, may help improve the appearance of dullness, superficial pigmentation and uneven texture. Light-based therapies, such as SkinBase IPL can also be used to rejuvenate uneven skin. A consultation allows your therapist to assess your skin and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Achieving a More Even-Looking Complexion

Uneven skin tone is common and can develop for several reasons, from sun exposure and hormonal changes to inflammation and ageing. Identifying the likely cause is the first step towards choosing suitable skincare and treatments.

Not every cause of uneven skin tone can be prevented, particularly when hormones or genetics are involved. However, consistent sun protection, gentle skincare and early attention to inflammation can reduce the risk of some forms of discolouration becoming more noticeable.

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