Pigmentation is a multi-faceted skin concern that can be caused by a variety of factors. Fortunately, we have a range of treatments that are proven to promote a brighter, more even complexion.
Today we will be taking a deep-dive into pigmentation, including what it is, the types, causes and our favorite treatments.
What is pigmentation and why does it occur?
Put simply, pigmentation is a term used to describe a change in your skin tone. Pigmentation can occur almost anywhere on the body but is most commonly found on the face, neck decolletage, and hands.
Pigmentation is caused by abnormal melanin production, which can lead to changes in our skin tone, including dark spots and patches. Melanin is naturally occurring in our bodies and determines our skin tone - less melanin results in a lighter skin tone, while more melanin leads to a deeper skin tone.
There are a number of factors that can cause this abnormal production, however the leading factor is sun exposure. UV rays can result in freckles, sun spots and age spots. Other common contributors include hormonal changes (taking the pill or other hormone-based medications), general ageing and skin trauma or inflammation (such as acne).
Types of pigmentation
When it comes to treating pigmentation, the first step is determining the type of pigmentation present. There are a few different types including freckles, Solar Lentigines, Melasma and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation.
Freckles
Freckles are the most common type of pigmentation. While you may be born with some freckles, often they appear as the first sign of sun damage. They may also appear darker over summer due to increased UV exposure.
Solar Lentigines
Solar Lentigines are also known as liver spots, sun spots, brown spots or age spots. They are pigmented spots that vary in colour from light brown to black. While they may look like freckles, they are caused purely by sun exposure and do not tend to fade during the year. As they are a result of UV exposure, they do need to be monitored for changes as they can develop into melanoma or other skin diseases.
Melasma
Melasma is characterised by dark patches across the forehead, cheeks and/or upper lip. While the cause is mostly unknown, it is most prevalent in women and is often triggered by hormonal changes such as pregnancy (often referred to as “the mask of pregnancy”). While it may gradually occur, melasma can be exacerbated by sun exposure, certain medications, heat and stress.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
You may notice you are left with red or brown marks after a bad breakout that takes a while to fade. That is the most common form of PIH. PIH occurs as a result of skin trauma such as acne and breakouts or burns, friction or other skin conditions.
Treatments
Once you have had your pigmentation professionally diagnosed, you can begin to treat it. Ingredients in skincare such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A as well as exfoliating AHAs and BHAs are commonly used to brighten and even the skin. SPF is also essential to prevent further sun damage from occurring. For best results, we recommend combining your homecare with our targeted pigmentation treatments.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use exfoliating properties to brighten skin tone and improve overall texture. The Medik8 Even Peel is a brightening peel targeting sun damage, hyperpigmentation and dull, uneven skin. This peel helps to visibly fade pigmentation for a more even and radiant complexion.
Chemical peels are best suited to clients looking for a quick treatment option with minimal downtime. They are affordable and will leave your skin looking instantly brighter! For those new to skin treatments, peels can also be used to prep the skin before undertaking more advanced treatment options.
Meso Needling with Depigmentation Solution
Mesotherapy is the technique of infusing or injecting active solutions into the skin intended for correcting a range of aesthetic concerns. These active substances are introduced into the skin by numerous micro-injections ensuring optimum penetration into the dermis, with superior effects improving the skin immediately and progressively.
While the needling process creates micro-wounds within the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing response, the targeted cocktail of active substances can address more specific concerns.
For pigmentation, our c.prof 210 depigmentation solution is recommended. It contains a powerful combination of active ingredients with corrective action for pigment disorders and antioxidant damage. It regulates melanin production and removes the melanin present in epidermal cells, responsible for visible pigmentation. It also contains antioxidant agents that regulate melanin overproduction and shield the skin from environmental stressors.
Not only will this treatment assist with uneven skin tone, PIH and acne scarring but it can also improve skin elasticity, promote collagen production and assist with textural concerns.
Cosmelan
For stubborn pigmentation or those wanting advanced results quickly, Cosmelan is the ultimate professional treatment. It targets the mechanisms that are responsible for skin pigmentation, thereby helping to lighten unsightly blemishes and spots. It has a dual corrective and controlling action, achieving short and long-term results by helping keep hyperpigmentation under control.
Cosmelan is particularly useful in the treatment of melasma and other hormonal pigmentation, which is the most difficult to control. This is because there are a number of internal factors triggering melanocytes that can cause irregular flare ups. This type of pigment also sits deep within the dermis, meaning surface treatments such as chemical peels or needling may be ineffective or take significantly longer to improve skin tone.
The treatment involves a two step process consisting of an in-clinic intensive mask followed by a strict home care regime which must be adhered to for maximum results. Generally a maintenance appointment is recommended every 12 months for best results.
While Cosmelan is most commonly known for its depigmenting benefits, it also retexturises the complexion and assists with many age related concerns. Your skin will appear more even, radiant and youthful.
If you have pigmentation concerns, the first step is booking a consultation with our experienced skin therapists to determine the type of pigment present and the best course of action for your unique needs. We will be able to pressive a unique combination of home care and clinical treatments to promote a brighter, more even and radiant complexion!
Click the link below to book online now.
https://www.theaestheticedit.com.au/book-online/
