Uneven skin tone affects millions, from age spots to persistent redness. With clinical innovations and dermatology-led protocols, personalized treatment is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. This article explains how different discoloration types require different solutions and why ROHTO AOHAL CLINIC is setting new standards in Vietnam.
Discoloration occurs when the skin’s melanin or vascular response becomes unbalanced. It often shows up as patches, blotches, or persistent redness.
Common causes include:
UV overexposure
Hormonal fluctuations
Post-acne inflammation
Rosacea or broken capillaries
Skin injuries or irritants
Side effects of medications
Each type needs a unique treatment path, especially when both pigment and vascular systems are involved.
1. Dark Spots (Hyperpigmentation)
These brown or gray patches stem from excess melanin production. Triggers include sun exposure, hormonal changes (e.g., melasma), and post-acne marks. The discoloration tends to settle deeper into the skin layers, making topical treatments slower to show results.
2. Redness (Erythema, Rosacea, Post-Inflammatory)
Unlike dark spots, redness often results from dilated blood vessels or chronic inflammation. Sensitive skin, rosacea, or broken capillaries are typical culprits. Redness can become chronic if untreated, especially in fair or reactive skin types.
Most dark spot treatments aim to reduce melanin production or accelerate skin turnover. Key ingredients include:
Hydroquinone: A powerful skin-lightening agent that blocks melanin. Use under medical supervision to avoid irritation or overuse.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Balances pigment production while strengthening the skin barrier.
Retinoids (Tretinoin, Retinol): Stimulate cell renewal and fade pigmentation over time.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Brightens skin by neutralizing free radicals and reducing pigment formation.
Azelaic Acid: Useful in acne-prone skin, this ingredient addresses both blemishes and PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation).
For best results, these actives should be used consistently and paired with broad-spectrum SPF to prevent recurrence.
If your dark spots resist topical care, professional interventions offer faster, more visible results:
Chemical Peels: Use glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid to exfoliate pigmented layers.
Microdermabrasion: Gently resurfaces the skin to reduce dullness and blotches.
Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser: Breaks down pigment particles deep within the skin.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Targets multiple skin layers with precision light bursts.
Laser Toning (e.g., Revlite): Gradually lightens melasma and deep hyperpigmentation.
However, patients with darker skin tones should proceed cautiously, as some lasers may trigger rebound pigmentation.
ROHTO AOHAL CLINIC delivers hyperpigmentation treatment backed by Japanese dermatological science. Their approach begins with digital skin diagnostics, followed by protocols tailored to the root cause and skin type.
Services include:
BBL (BroadBand Light): An FDA-cleared system from Sciton (USA), ideal for treating pigmentation and uneven tone with little to no downtime.
Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser (Helios III or Revlite): Breaks up stubborn melanin clusters safely, even in deeper layers.
Sylfirm X (RF Microneedling): Exclusive to a few clinics in Vietnam, this dual-action technology treats both pigment and vascular lesions.
Fotona Laser: Used for combined rejuvenation and pigmentation correction.
Topical clinical-grade serums: Prescribed and monitored by dermatologists.
PRP Therapy: Stimulates collagen and fades discoloration post-inflammation.
Skin redness can be temporary, reactive, or chronic, depending on the underlying trigger. Temporary redness, such as flushing, may occur due to temperature changes or emotional stress. Reactive redness stems from external irritants like allergens or harsh skincare products, while chronic redness often relates to conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or persistent post-acne inflammation.
Common triggers include:
Harsh cleansers, exfoliants, or alcohol-based toners
UV exposure, hot environments, and saunas
Spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and emotional stress
Hormonal shifts (e.g., pregnancy, menstrual cycle)
Flare-ups related to acne or seborrheic dermatitis
In many cases, redness involves dilated blood vessels (telangiectasia) and inflammatory responses that weaken the skin barrier. Therefore, treatment protocols must prioritize calming, barrier-repairing, and anti-inflammatory strategies rather than aggressive exfoliation or stimulation.
Identifying the root cause—whether vascular, inflammatory, or allergic—is essential before selecting the appropriate topical or clinical intervention.
Effective ingredients to calm redness include:
Centella Asiatica: Anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
Allantoin: Moisturizes and soothes irritated skin.
Green Tea Extract: Rich in polyphenols that reduce inflammation.
Azelaic Acid: Helps in rosacea and acne-prone skin.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Boosts skin regeneration.
Daily use of non-comedogenic moisturizers and mineral sunscreens is also critical.
While mild redness can often be managed at home, persistent or chronic redness—especially from rosacea or broken capillaries—typically requires professional, medical-grade treatments. These in-clinic solutions are designed to reduce inflammation, strengthen blood vessel walls, and restore the skin’s natural barrier.
1. BBL Therapy (BroadBand Light)
Though widely known for treating pigmentation, BBL is also highly effective for vascular issues. It delivers precise pulses of light that target hemoglobin in dilated vessels, causing them to collapse and gradually fade. Patients often see improved tone, reduced flushing, and fewer visible capillaries after a series of sessions. It is a non-invasive option with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
2. LED Light Therapy
Low-level light therapy (usually red or blue LED) helps reduce inflammation, stimulate cellular repair, and calm reactive skin. It’s particularly beneficial for clients with rosacea, post-inflammatory redness, or sensitivity following other procedures. It enhances skin healing without any heat or irritation—making it safe even for the most fragile skin types.
3. Vascular Lasers (e.g., VBeam)
These pulsed dye lasers are engineered to selectively target blood vessels without harming the surrounding tissue. They are ideal for treating spider veins, persistent facial redness, and telangiectasia. The laser heats and destroys abnormal vessels, which are then naturally absorbed by the body. Patients may require several sessions spaced weeks apart, but results are often long-lasting.
4. Sylfirm X (RF Microneedling)
This innovative treatment combines microneedling with bipolar radiofrequency energy to treat both pigment and vascular abnormalities simultaneously. It’s especially effective for rosacea-related redness, visible veins, and sensitive or treatment-resistant skin types. The dual-depth pulses strengthen capillary walls, improve skin texture, and reduce inflammation. ROHTO AOHAL CLINIC is among the few centers in Vietnam licensed to use Sylfirm X technology.
5. Calming Clinical Facials
These facials use soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients such as Centella Asiatica, panthenol, and aloe vera. They are tailored to rebuild the skin’s barrier, reduce flare-ups, and support recovery after more intensive treatments like laser or BBL. Gentle manual techniques and cooling devices are often included to minimize irritation.
Note: All these procedures must begin with a thorough dermatological assessment. In cases of chronic redness, particularly rosacea, misdiagnosis or overly aggressive treatment can exacerbate symptoms. At ROHTO AOHAL CLINIC, every patient undergoes a detailed skin scan and consultation to determine the safest and most effective strategy.
Dark spots involve pigment; redness involves blood vessels and inflammation. Treating the wrong issue with the wrong method can worsen the condition. For example, strong acids used for hyperpigmentation may irritate red, inflamed skin.
Factors to consider include:
Skin type (oily, dry, sensitive)
Discoloration cause (melanin vs. vascular)
Severity (surface vs. deep layers)
Duration (new vs. long-standing)
Mild cases may respond well to at-home care. For stubborn, recurring issues, a dermatologist’s input is crucial.
Founded by ROHTO-Mentholatum Vietnam, the clinic follows strict Japanese dermatology protocols. With two branches in HCMC and Hanoi, the clinic offers bilingual service (Vietnamese/Japanese/English) and personalized consultations.
1. BBL (BroadBand Light)
FDA-certified light energy that targets both pigment and vascular lesions. Minimal discomfort and no downtime make it popular for melasma and redness.
2. Q-Switched Nd:YAG
Ideal for freckles, sunspots, and post-acne pigmentation. Offers dual wavelengths (532 nm and 1064 nm) for tailored depth control.
3. Sylfirm X
A cutting-edge device that delivers bipolar RF through microneedles. Targets both pigment and vascular irregularities simultaneously.
4. Fotona
A multi-functional laser used for pigmentation, redness, and skin rejuvenation. Especially effective when combining discoloration concerns with texture or laxity.
5. PRP and RF Microneedling
Supportive treatments that promote collagen, reduce scars, and even skin tone.
All patients undergo a dermoscopic skin scan. Based on the results, a doctor creates a personalized plan—often combining treatments like Q-Switched + BBL or Sylfirm X + LED. Progress is monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Pros:
Affordable: Most over-the-counter creams and serums cost significantly less than clinical procedures.
Accessible: Easily purchased online or at pharmacies, with no appointment required.
Low barrier to entry: Ideal for those starting skincare routines or addressing mild, early-stage discoloration.
Cons:
Slower results: Improvements may take 4 to 12 weeks or longer, especially for deep pigmentation or redness.
Risk of irritation: Without professional guidance, incorrect use of active ingredients (like retinoids or acids) can cause breakouts, peeling, or increased sensitivity.
Limited penetration: Topicals cannot reach the deeper skin layers where many discoloration issues reside, reducing their effectiveness in moderate to severe cases.
Pros:
Faster, more noticeable results: Medical-grade lasers, light therapies, and microneedling work deeper and more precisely.
Suitable for complex or chronic conditions: Ideal for melasma, rosacea, or stubborn post-acne pigmentation.
Customized care: Treatments are designed based on detailed skin analysis and supervised by trained dermatologists, minimizing risk and maximizing outcome.
Cons:
Higher cost: Professional care comes with higher fees, especially for multi-session protocols.
Possible downtime: Some treatments, like chemical peels or aggressive lasers, may involve redness, peeling, or a few days of recovery, though many modern procedures (e.g., BBL, Sylfirm X) now minimize this.
In short, at-home treatments are a good first step for mild cases or maintenance, but for persistent or complex discoloration, in-clinic care provides the speed, precision, and medical supervision needed for optimal results.
Topicals may show progress in 4–12 weeks. In-clinic treatments often show improvement after 1–3 sessions.
Yes—when performed by professionals. Clinics like ROHTO AOHAL adjust settings and protocols based on individual tolerance.
Yes. Without SPF or maintenance, hyperpigmentation and redness may come back. Maintenance plans help sustain results.
Choosing the right treatment for skin discoloration depends on understanding the underlying cause—melanin vs. inflammation. Generic solutions often miss the mark.
Whether you're dealing with age spots, melasma, or redness from rosacea, a customized protocol makes all the difference. Clinics like ROHTO AOHAL bring world-class dermatology to Vietnam with Japanese-backed expertise and FDA-cleared technology.
Ready to address your discoloration concerns? Book a personalized skin consultation at ROHTO AOHAL CLINIC today for professional guidance and real results.
ROHTO AOHAL CLINIC - CONTACT INFORMATION
Branch: 02 Pham Dinh Toai, Vo Thi Sau ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
☎ Phone: (028) 3930 9555
Branch: 207/4 Nguyen Van Thu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
☎ Phone: (028) 3827 9737
Branch: 50 Nguyen Thi Thap, Tan Hung Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City
☎ Phone: (028) 6686 8048
Branch: 136 Trieu Viet Vuong, Nguyen Du Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Ha Noi City
☎ Phone: (024) 3375 5588
Email: info@rohtoaohalclinic.com.vn
Business License No. 3700239769-001 issued on 04/07/2014 by Ho Chi Minh City Derpartment of Planning & Investment
Managed by: BRANCH NO. 2 OF ROHTO-MENTHOLATUM (VIETNAM)
