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Difference Between Tan and Pigmentation: Causes, Signs & Treatments

Dr. Debatri Datta
Reviewed by Dr. Debatri Datta
MBBS, MD in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
Written by : Dr. Debatri Datta
Updated on: August 21, 2025

People often confuse tan with pigmentation. While both are the aftereffects of sun exposure, pigmentation can occur due to several other reasons. If you, too, mistake tan with pigmentation, this article is for you. In this ultimate guide, we will understand the difference between tan and pigmentation. Also, we will learn about some professional treatments to treat tan and pigmentation. Keep reading! Read More

Difference Between Pigmentation And Tanning

Here is a comparative analysis to help you better understand the difference between pigmentation and tanning:

Feature Pigmentation Tanning
Causes Excess melanin [1] production due to sun exposure, genetics, hormonal disorders, inflammation, injuries, and certain medications.

Excess melanin production due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays [2]

Signs & Symptoms Discolouration of your skin in the form of dark patches, spots or uneven skin tone. Overall darkening (temporary) of your skin, especially after you had sun exposure.
Affected Areas Depending on the cause, it can affect any area of your body, like the face, arms, neck, back, hands, or trunk. Primarily affects sun-exposed areas of your body, like the face, neck, arms, and legs.
Depth of Skin Affected Depending on the type of pigmentation, it can affect both the deeper and epidermal [3] layers of your skin. Affects only the outer layers of your skin.
Impact on Skin Tone Results in uneven skin tone and discolouration. Leads to uniform darkening of your skin.
Seasonal Variation It is not limited to seasons. It may occur or worsen at any time of the year. It is most common during summer or after prolonged exposure to the sun.
Recovery Your recovery from pigmentation depends on the cause and the type. It may be slow and often requires a targeted treatment. Tanning usually fades naturally with time, especially faster when avoiding the sun.
Risk of Recurrence Individuals with genetic predisposition, hormonal disorders (during pregnancy or PCOS), inflammation or frequent skin injuries are at high risk. People who are regularly exposed [4] to the sun, with lighter skin tone or inadequate sun protection, are susceptible to tanning.

When To Visit A Dermatologist?

You may have been trying specific home remedies and OTC products to treat tanning or pigmentation. However, it may not be giving significant results. It is an indication that you need a professional’s advice to treat them. Consult a dermatologist for any of the below:

  • If you are noticing persistent discolouration and are uncertain why
  • If moles on your body are changing in colour or if you notice new ones
  • If there is excessive sun damage, resulting in blisters and sunburns

A dermatologist will analyse your condition and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment to treat your concern.

How To Remove Tan And Pigmentation From Face?

You need to understand the difference between tan and pigmentation for the right treatments and preventive measures. Tanning is also a type of pigmentation, and some pigmentation treatments effectively treat tan. Here are some professional treatments your dermatologist may recommend to address pigmentation and tanning on your face:

  1. Laser Toning: Dermatologists may recommend this advanced laser skin rejuvenation treatment to remove tan and pigmentation from your face. They will use a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to target the pigment on your skin. It breaks down the excess melanin in the skin without harming the surrounding skin. This gives you a bright and smooth complexion. You may need 6-8 sessions of laser toning for significant results.
  2. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels are specialised peels effective for removing tan and pigmentation from your face. Depending on the type and severity of concern, your doctor will decide the depth and concentration of the chemical peel. Accordingly, they will apply a layer of the chemical solution on your face, which removes the top layer damaged by pigmentation or tan, and reveals a smooth and even skin tone. You need multiple sessions monthly to notice significant and long-lasting results.
  3. Specialised Peels: For those dark circles under your eyes, dermatologists often recommend custom-made and dermatologist-designed peels like EyeRevive peel and Cosmelan peel. These effectively treat pigmentation in the delicate under-eye region and give you a radiant complexion.
  4. Skin Rejuvenation Treatments: For dullness and uneven skin tone, dermatologists recommend skin rejuvenation treatments that give you a brighter complexion. These include InstaGlow, Carbon laser peel, Hollywood rejuvenation, Fire & Ice, and Enzyme facial treatments. These are medically proven formulations and dermatologist-led treatments that eliminate melanin build-up and reveal a brighter and smoother complexion. You may need multiple sessions of this treatment to prolong the results.

Why Choose Oliva Clinic For Pigmentation And Tan Removal?

Oliva offers the best tan removal and pigmentation treatments with proven results. Here are some top reasons why thousands across India trust Oliva:

  1. Dermatologist-Led Expertise: Oliva has the largest team of experienced and highly qualified dermatologists who perform the tan removal and pigmentation treatments.
  2. USFDA-Approved Technology: At Oliva, we use the advanced US FDA-approved technology and equipment that are clinically proven to target deep pigmentation and stubborn tan and deliver visible results.
  3. Personalised Treatment Plans: At Oliva, we believe that every skin is unique. Hence, our experts customise your tan removal or pigmentation treatment based on your skin type, concern, and severity. This approach helps you achieve optimal and natural-looking results.
  4. Holistic Approach: Our dermatologists at Oliva do not offer superficial fixes. They address the underlying causes of pigmentation and tanning to help you achieve and maintain clear, even-toned skin for longer.
  5. Safe & Science-Backed Solutions: At Oliva, our dermatologists recommend treatments that are scientifically backed and are suitable for Indian skin types. They perform these treatments following strict safety protocols, ensuring the safest and most effective care.
  6. Client Satisfaction: Thousands of clients across India expressed their satisfaction with Oliva for the transforming results. We have a whopping 95% satisfaction rate among 7.5+ clients.
  7. Minimal Downtime: Most of our treatments require little to no downtime. Having said that, you can return to your routine immediately after the procedure.
  8. Ongoing Support: At Oliva, our dermatologists provide complete pre- and post-care guidance to ensure your results are long-lasting and your experience is smooth.

Before & After Results Of Tan And Pigmentation At Oliva

Check out the before-and-after pictures of our clients who have successfully undergone tan removal and pigmentation treatments and transformed their skin, with high satisfaction rates.

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Abhigan

Client ID: SEC02C27520

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Radhika Rao

Client ID: JN03N5326

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Prasanna Ravela

Client ID: SC01C6987

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Dharani Dharan

Client ID: AN01C2729

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Divya R

Client ID: HR04C1835

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Rahul Ganga

Client ID: JH04C6779

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Venkata Sahitya

Client ID: JH04C6772

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Sravani Marisetty

Client ID: JH04C6156

Before Before
After After

Client Name : Sana Mahal

Client ID: JH04C6415

Takeaway

While both pigmentation and tanning are results of excess melanin production, they are different. You need to understand the difference between pigmentation and tanning for effective treatment and preventive measures. Some effective pigmentation treatments also treat tanning. Consulting a dermatologist helps identify the best treatment options based on your concern, the type and its severity. With the right approach, treatment and proper maintenance, you can achieve long-lasting results. If you are looking for personalised advice and treatment, book an appointment with our expert dermatologist today!

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