The spot has long since gone. The dark mark has remained.
Discolouration after acne, sun spots, an uneven complexion – this isn't a question of the right cream. And it can be tackled with precision.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · no sales pressure
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Perhaps you've been there:
Why pigment spots and discolourations occur
Pigment spots occur when the skin produces too much melanin in individual areas. This most commonly happens after inflammation: melanocytes react to the irritation with overproduction, and the pigment remains long after the trigger has disappeared. This is called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH for short.
We see three patterns most frequently. Which one applies to you will determine the path:
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
The skin has reacted to inflammation – acne, an irritation, a product that was too aggressive – and left behind dark pigment. This is the most common form that comes to us. It is more pronounced and persistent in darker skin types. How deep the pigment sits depends on how deep the inflammation went.
Sun-induced discolouration
Years of UV radiation add up and cause the complexion to become uneven. Typically on the cheeks, forehead, back of the hands, and décolleté.
Hormonally induced pigmentation (Melasma)
Triggered by hormones and exacerbated by the sun. Historically, it's prone to recurrence and requires a gentle approach.
And they reinforce each other: A PIH spot that gets sun darkens and lasts longer. Therefore, sun protection here isn't an optional recommendation, but part and parcel of the deal.
Why brightening creams rarely suffice — and what makes it worse
Most whitening products work in the epidermis. For superficial pigment, this can help somewhat over months. If the melanin is deeper, they simply can't reach it. But what's more important is what works [to alter it] in the other direction:
Irritation produces the exact pigment you want to get rid of.
Lemon, baking powder, aggressive home remedies — they irritate the skin. Inflammation is the trigger for PIH. The area becomes darker instead of lighter.
Too much at once
Strong acids plus retinol plus mechanical exfoliation. The barrier gives way, the skin reacts with irritation, new pigment forms. For pigmentation, the patient approach wins. More on this on our page about dehydrated skin
With pigment, it's the setting, not the device, that counts
Any procedure that introduces energy into the skin can trigger a counter-reaction if incorrectly dosed or if the skin type is misjudged – more pigment instead of less. This is not an argument against technology. It’s the reason why, with us, a skin analysis precedes every pigmentation treatment, and why we approach darker skin tones differently to lighter ones.
Half the work is done at home
This is not an advertisement, but the reason why some results last and others don't.
SPF 50 broad spectrum, daily
Even in winter, even at your desk. UV-A penetrates clouds and window panes, activating melanocytes without noticeable sun.
In a randomised, four-and-a-half-year long-term study, the group with daily application showed approximately a quarter less skin ageing compared to the control group.
Hughes et al., Annals of Internal Medicine 2013 — View study
At Pigment: tinted, with iron oxide
Not only UV causes pigments to darken, but visible light does too. Classic filters barely cover this, but iron oxide does.
In a double-blind randomised study with 68 female participants, skin appearance improved more under sunscreen with iron oxide than under pure UV protection.
Castanedo-Cazares et al., Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed 2014 — View study
Vitamin C in the morning, before SPF
It intervenes in the enzyme chain of melanin formation and simultaneously protects against oxidative stress from UV.
It doesn't replace SPF. Together, both work better than either on its own.
We will discuss which products suit your skin during the analysis. With no sales pressure.
This is how we approach pigment at alestetics®
There is no single pigment treatment. The right approach depends on the cause of the discolouration and how deep it is. That's why analysis comes first, not the equipment.
Core treatments
PRX-T33®
TCA with kojic acid, no heat, no downtime. Directly targets melanin production. Our first choice for post-acne discolouration.
Find out more →Stellar M22™ IPL
Light in multiple wavelengths, which is absorbed by excess pigment. We use it for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and for an uneven complexion. It is contraindicated for melasma.
Find out more →LaseMD Ultra™
Fractional Thulium Laser, 1927 nm. Its energy is absorbed by water, not melanin – it works on the skin's renewal itself. For a more even complexion, finer texture, and pores. Possible all year round and adjustable for different skin tones.
Find out more →In addition, depending on your skin type
- BioRePeel® Accelerates cell renewal without visible peeling. Good in series, no downtime.
- SkinPen® Microneedling — purely mechanical, no heat. Safe for all skin tones and therefore particularly suitable for PIH.
- Vivace® RF Microneedling — if discolouration is also accompanied by texture or Acne scars come.
- HydraFacial™ — prepares the skin and keeps the complexion clear between sessions.
- Dermadrop TDA® — delivers active ingredients needle-free, as maintenance between more intensive treatments.
IPL and laser each get their own session because they deliver energy into the skin. HydraFacial™ or a scrub at the same session beforehand LaseMD Ultra™ — the skin is then cleansed and the pores are clear, instead of energy being lost to sebum and keratinisation.
Fillmed NCTF® and PolyPhil™ Let's set it for a week later, when the skin has undergone its initial renewal.
With hormonally induced pigmentation, we work deliberately with restraint: gentle peels, strict sun protection, and honest expectations. Melasma can be managed, not cured.
Dermalux™ LED is included with every facial and soothes the skin — which is doubly beneficial for pigmentation. Followed by SPF 50.
The free AURA 3D skin analysis will show you the perfect combination for you. The camera also reveals pigmentation beneath the surface – areas that are not yet visible in the mirror.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →Your journey at alestetics®
Free AURA 3D skin analysis
The camera shows pigment even beneath the surface, where it's not yet visible in the mirror. After that, you'll know which pattern you have.
Your combination
Treatment pathway, sequence, and a realistic timeframe – tailored to your skin tone and how deep the pigment sits.
Care and protection
Without sun protection, the discolouration will return. We're planning for this from the start, rather than tacking it on at the end.
Why alestetics®
Specialising in pre-aging
V-NISSG certified women’s team focusing on skin quality rather than individual treatments. Two minutes from Zurich Main Station.
A system rather than a single device
With pigments, the order of application determines the result. We combine them in a way that the steps don't hinder one another.
Honest assessment
With melasma, we'll tell you what's realistic — even if that means advising against treatment. 690+ reviews.
You might be wondering
How long do dark spots from acne last?
Without treatment, often months, sometimes over a year — depending on how deep the inflammation went and how much sun the area is exposed to. With targeted treatment and consistent sun protection, it's usually significantly faster.
Will pigment spots go away completely?
This depends on the pattern and depth. Superficial pigment responds well, while deeper pigment requires several sessions. The goal is a more even complexion, not guaranteed disappearance.
How many sessions will I need?
In general, a short series over a few weeks. With LaseMD Ultra™, we usually plan three sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. The exact number is determined after the AURA 3D skin analysis.
Can I have pigmentation spots treated in the summer too?
Partly. Peels, microneedling and LaseMD Ultra™ can be done all year round – LaseMD absorbs its energy from water and doesn't rely on tan contrast. However, we prefer to schedule Stellar M22™ IPL for the darker half of the year, as it requires untanned skin.
Does this work on darker skin?
Yes, with an adjusted selection. SkinPen® and gentle peels work without heat, LaseMD Ultra™ can be adjusted in terms of power and density. With darker skin types, the risk of new irritation pigmentation is higher – this determines what we can and cannot work with.
What about melasma?
Melasma is partly hormonally induced and tends to recur. Stellar M22™ IPL is contra-indicated for this. We work gently, with strict sun protection and with the aim of control rather than cure.
Is there any downtime after the treatment?
Peels and microneedling can usually be easily integrated into your daily routine. After LaseMD Ultra™, expect one to three days: the skin will be red on the day of treatment, after which it will feel slightly rough and flake a little. Make-up is possible the following day.
Can you tell that I've had something done?
The complexion gradually becomes more even. There isn't a single day where something suddenly looks different.
What does a pigment treatment cost in Zurich?
That depends on the combination. You can find an overview on our Prices page →. The AURA 3D skin analysis is free, and together we can determine what is advisable.
I'm already using a brightening cream — do I still need this one?
Usually yes, as a supplement. It doesn't replace the treatment, but it does keep the results more stable. We'll clarify what suits your skin during the analysis.
Before you buy the next brightening cream, let's take a look together.
The AURA 3D skin analysis reveals the type of discolouration you have and how deep it is. This then shows the way forward – or indeed, the honest information that patience and sun protection will provide more benefit than any treatment.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · Konradstrasse 1, 8005 Zurich Central Station
Customer testimonials
What our customers say
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What our customers say
„Aleksandra was very professional, warm and friendly. She gave me excellent advice on what I needed, even though I’d booked a completely different treatment. All the risks and considerations were clearly explained, and I never felt like I was being pressured into anything. A great consultation… I’ve found my new go-to place for treatments.'
„A huge thank you to Alex for her advice. Her expertise and her calm, professional manner won me over straight away. She takes her time, tailors her advice to individual needs and gives fantastic tips for a home skincare routine. It’s exactly the kind of consultation you’d hope for – knowledgeable, warm and genuine."
„I really appreciate that there’s no pressure to buy extra services or products – just genuine, high-quality care. After nearly a year of visiting Alestetics, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Alex has been professional, kind and attentive throughout my visits. I highly recommend them!"
„I love coming here; it always feels like I’m going to a spa. They don’t try to sell me anything and are very open about what the treatments can (and cannot) do for me. They take health and wellbeing very seriously and always make sure I know how to look after myself outside the clinic as well."
„Alex is amazing! She listens to what the customer needs and explains the process. She is very knowledgeable and also makes recommendations. For me, her fluency in English is extremely helpful when we communicate."
„I had a Vivace treatment combined with PRX-T33. The appointment went smoothly; the staff were very professional and efficient. The clinic is close to HB and centrally located. Alexandra was very nice and friendly. I’ll definitely be coming back!"
„I had RF microneedling and EXILIS treatments on my stomach at Alestetics and am extremely pleased with the results. In fact, the results are much more noticeable than I had expected. Katia is highly professional, very attentive and incredibly warm. I highly recommend her!"
„I spent a long time looking for the right salon for me and I’m absolutely delighted that I chose alestetics®. The salon is beautiful, and everything is spotlessly clean and hygienic. Thanks to the team’s caring, friendly and professional manner, I felt very comfortable and safe throughout the entire treatment."
„I’ve been to Alestetics several times now. Before the treatment, they carried out an Aura skin analysis, during which they explained my skin condition to me in great detail — it was incredibly professional and transparent. Katia, Antonia and Alex are incredibly caring, knowledgeable and professional. You never feel like 'just another customer'."
„Today I had my first laser treatment (4 areas) with Katia and I felt completely at ease. She was particularly sensitive to my needs, as I can be a bit sensitive to pain at times. Her friendly manner made the treatment a really pleasant experience!"
„Katia is simply brilliant at her job! I’ve now had my third laser treatment. As I’m quite sensitive to pain, I really appreciate the fact that Katia always distracts me with a friendly chat. I feel very well looked after."
„I had a wonderful experience at the aesthetics clinic with Katia. She took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and made sure I felt confident throughout. I would highly recommend Katia for high-quality and truly personalised treatment."
„Review of the BTL Exilis treatment. I’m an active man and work out regularly, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get rid of that stubborn belly fat. I noticed a difference after just the first treatment. After several sessions, the difference was clearly visible."
„All the treatments here are sensational. This wellness haven truly lives up to its reputation. It’s centrally located — right next to Zurich main station — and the atmosphere at the spa is serene and calm. Every visit to Alestetics is my monthly treat and feels like a mini-break."
„I’ve had several Endospheres treatments at alestetics. Alex and Katia are very professional, but also very friendly and caring. They’ve always taken my needs and wishes into account (avoiding the tummy after pregnancy). I can’t recommend them highly enough!"
„I had five EXILIS treatments with Katia at alestetics®. The service was excellent – Katia is very professional and warm, and explains everything in detail. You feel at ease with her straight away. I’d definitely recommend her!"
„I feel understood, and they're absolutely lovely and professional!!"
„I had an excellent experience with the Icoone treatment. Antonia was simply fantastic – very professional, warm and incredibly friendly. She took plenty of time and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire treatment."
„I visit Alestetics regularly for Hydrafacial and microneedling treatments. The team are really friendly and flexible. The location is perfect, and the studio is clean and comfortable. After three treatments, my skin feels much clearer and my pores are slightly smaller."
„I feel completely at ease with Alex and her team! From the welcome to the treatments, the hygiene and the atmosphere: everything is simply always perfect. I originally came across Alestetics because of their laser treatments, but now I also go there for my facials."
„The treatments at Alestetics have worked wonders on my sensitive skin. With Katia, you’re in absolutely professional hands!"
„I'm absolutely delighted to have found this clinic in Zurich where, after just four sessions, I've seen amazing results! The girl who looks after me, Katia, is so lovely; she put me at ease right from the start and is incredibly professional!"
„My favourite salon in Zh! Top-notch service, lovely welcome tea, friendly staff, helpful consultations, and I left feeling happy and glowing, looking gorgeous after my treatments. Thanks Katia, Alexandra, and the Alestetics team – one love!"
„At first, I was really impressed by the Endospheres therapy. But the Icoone treatment has surpassed everything: it massages the skin gently and painlessly from head to toe. I started the treatments less for firmer skin and more for my health. The team are like best friends to me."
„Very friendly and professional staff, who take the time to carry out a skin analysis and offer valuable advice! I highly recommend it. It was a pleasure to have the AURA 3D skin analysis and to discuss my daily skincare routine."