Skin Pigmentation

Pigmentation

A wrinkle free, well-structured face is super, but if you have uneven skin tone with dark patches over it, you may not feel so confident and find it difficult trying to cover it with makeup. Known as hyperpigmentation, there are three main types:

• post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (often referred to as PIH)
• melasma
• solar lentigines or sunspots

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Hyperpigmentation

This occurs when there is an excess of melanin in the skin. This is pigment produced by your melanocytes (pigment cells) and these guys give skin it`s colour. The opposite is hypopigmentation where you see light patches of skin. Both harmless but facial hyperpigmentation is one of the most common signs of photoaging.

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Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

This is caused by other skin conditions, when skin has been irritated or injured its automatic response is to produce more pigment to protect itself.

Post inflammatory marks can be following acne spots or eczema, this is where skin inflammation from acne lesions leaves red marks, unfortunately can lead to more permanent scarring causing the person much distress as it is often stubborn and can prove difficult to treat.

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Hyperpigmentation is a side effect of ageing

Solar lentigines can be seen on the face and usually begins around 25-30. Often called age spots or sunspots we refer to this as pigmented lesions or solar lentigines. Most noticeable on the face and back of hands, especially on those who love to spend time in the sun. They appear in varies shapes and sizes and don’t go away unless treated.

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Melasma is another form of hyperpigmentation

Facial pigmentation can also present in the form of melasma with patches of pigment across the forehead, side of the face and upper lip.

Melasma can be cused by sun exposure but commonly by hormonal changes. Contraceptive pill and HRT can have an effect however more common in pregnancy when it can appear on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and chin.

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It can occur anywhere on the body

Most people are concerned about facial pigmentation however you can have it on all areas of the body. Common areas are knees, elbows, back of hands and for some the intimate areas are often affected. It is perfectly normal to see pigmentation on the perianal area, on the pubis, inner thighs and groins.

Those with darker skins have a higher risk of pigmentation, however fair skins are often affected –particularly those who have had excessive sun exposure or sun bed use.

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Treatment Options

Lasers can blast away hyperpigmantation

Q switch laser treatment can effectively reduce pigmmented lesions, although they usually requires three or more sessions, however more densely pigmented areas may require more.

You can Peel away the pigment

Some of the skin care ingredients can be used as chemical peels and if your skin care is not having the desired effect then adding a peel may be the answer. It is important to have a peel consultation to begin the appropriate skin preparation for the peel. Or a skin consultation to discuss your skin concern with a clinician.

Peels range from very light known as superficial peels used in conjunction with your home care, to the more aggressive peels that require professional skin preparation for a few weeks. Depending on peel chosen you may have some down time following the treatment, but this will be discussed at your consultation.

Skincare can help

Its best to see a qualified practitioner for a Skin consultation before embarking on a new regime for pigmentation. However, look out for those active ingredients such as Vitamin C, Retinols, Niacinamide, Kojic acid, Mandelic acid.

Why not book free skin consultation or view our range of products.

Sunscreen is the key to prevention

There is no such thing as a safe tan. The increase in skin pigment causes the tan colour increasing the production of melanin to protect it.in an attempt to prevent further damage.

Sunscreen is the most essential item of skin care to stop the hyperpigmentation occurring. At Clinica Medica we have a variety of sun blocks available and offer a free skincare consultation with a qualified therapist to ensure that you chose the correct one.