We take a look at… PIGMENTATION

FLAWLESSLY SMOOTH AND even skin creates the impression of youth and vitality. However, as we get older, it’s only natural for areas of increased pigmentation to appear. ‘With the onset of perimenopause and menopause, many women develop dark patches and heavily-pigmented areas that create uneven skin tone,’ says Dr Charlotte Woodward from River Aesthetics (riveraesthetics.com).

‘Hyperpigmentation refers to patches of skin that have become darkened or discoloured. It is most commonly caused by sun damage,’ she says. ‘Exposure to UV stimulates pigment-producing cells – melanocytes – to produce melanin, a form of protection from further UV