Pigmentation Removal: Everything you need to know about skin pigmentation
Pigmentation Removal
To understand how to treat a skin issue, the best way to begin is to understand the problem. Through knowledge, we can identify what treatments would be beneficial or detrimental to the skin condition and the best path to take to diminish or eliminate the skin condition. When it comes to skin pigmentation, a skin condition that strikes a vast majority of Australians, we should first get to know it a little better, understand the causes and the variations, and lastly, how to treat it.
Pigmentation, by definition, is the abnormal colouring of the skin. This can be due to various factors, including disease, sun damage, etc. The cause of pigmentation is the abnormal production of melanin. Melanin is responsible for producing pigment in the skin, which makes the skin a particular colour. People with darker skin have more melanin present, while people with fairer skin have less, and so it goes. Melanin as a sole entity is never a problem. However, when your body starts to create an abnormal amount of melanin in particular areas, this can lead to pigmentation.
There are two main types of pigmentation:
- Hyperpigmentation: when the abnormal production of melanin results in darker areas of colour being created and evident on the skin
- Hypopigmentation: when the abnormal production of melanin results in lighter areas of colour being formed and evident on the skin
There are many different reasons why your skin produces an abnormal amount of melanin. Some of the most common causes are:
- Hormonal imbalances, such as puberty, menopause, and pregnancy
- Certain diseases: vitiligo can create light patches on the skin, whilst some autoimmune diseases can also affect skin pigment
- Certain medications: a typical example that can lead to skin pigmentation is the introduction of the contraceptive pill
- Sun exposure: the effects of the sun can lead to a melanin imbalance. We advise you always to apply a high-quality sunscreen with a high SPF
- Genetic predisposition: the chances of skin pigmentation affecting you are increased substantially if your family has also been affected by skin pigmentation (an acute example of this would be Albinism)
If you can recognise skin pigmentation or feel it may be present, though unsure, schedule an appointment with us here at Main Street Cosmetic and Skin. During your initial skin consultation, we can thoroughly assess your skin, confirm whether it is skin pigmentation, and explain the best options for successful treatment. A correct diagnosis must be made to ensure that appropriate treatment and the best possible results are achieved.
Treatment options range from the following:
- Laser therapy: certain types of pigmentation may respond well to laser therapy, such as sun spots; these spots may fade or completely disappear
- Bleaching agents: pigment, such as melasma, may respond well to lightening agents, though they may not disappear
- Chemical peels: superficial layers of pigmentation may be able to be removed with a skin peel treatment
- IPL: Intense Pulsed Light therapy can achieve a similar result to laser therapy; it works by targeting the melanin below the skin’s surface
- Assessment and reevaluation of your hormone treatments (e.g., the contraceptive pill), other prescription medication, and exposure to UV rays
- Avoidance of the sun and the introduction of 50+ sunscreen; this will aid in the management of pigmentation and allow the skin to take a well-needed break from the harmful effects of UV rays
Out of the options listed above, our two most popular skin pigmentation removal are laser therapy and topical lightening creams. These two treatments are effective because they have minimal downtime and maximum results. For example, laser therapy can drastically alter the appearance of skin pigmentation, if not eliminate it, and has a recovery period of approximately one week. Topical creams take longer to achieve a positive result, though they have zero downtime and are completely free of harmful effects.
Our skilled and knowledgeable team of doctors and trained medical staff will assess your skin and provide unique advice for you and your situation. What works for Sally may not work for Harry. Therefore, we treat each client like the individual they are.
Skin pigmentation is not limited to the facial skin; it can occur anywhere on the body.
The hands, neck, and face are the most common areas, with 62% of Australian women listing skin pigmentation as a concern. All skin pigmentation areas can be treated with one of the abovementioned treatments. If your pigmentation is raised somewhat, we will have one of our specialist skin doctors check it to rule out any other causes.
Call Main Street Cosmetic and Skin on 03 9739 3830 to learn more about skin pigmentation or schedule your skin consultation. Our experienced team is a wealth of knowledge and can help with various skin issues. Better yet, your first skin consultation is complimentary!