Had a little too much fun in the sun and suffering from pigmentation? Those blotchy, dark patches on your skin are caused by an over-production of melanin and, unfortunately, seem to age us faster than we would like!
While hormones, medication, skin scarring and pregnancy can all play a part; one of the main causes of pigmentation is sun exposure. But once the damage has been done, what can be done to fix it? Keep reading as we show you exactly what can be done to treat pigmentation and look after your skin better than ever before.
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation (also called hyperpigmentation) occurs when the melanocytes in the deeper layers of the skin produce a skin-darkening pigment known as melanin. If melanin is over-produced, it may result in darker patches of skin appearing on the skin’s surface. It’s one of the most common skin conditions and, in the past, has been difficult to treat.
While there can be many causes of pigmentation, the two most common causes are sun exposure and hormones. Sun-induced pigmentation is caused when UV rays stimulate your pigment cells, called melanocytes, to manufacture melanin. This gives you a tan but can also cause those dreaded, irregular dark patches.
Hormonally induced pigmentation, also known as melasma, tends to appear in defined patches on your face – often your cheeks – and appears on both sides (bilateral). This is often called ‘pregnancy mask’ as it is commonly triggered during pregnancy.
Getting even with pigmentation
On a clinical level there are several treatments that can assist with pigmentation, but let’s start with the world’s leading depigmentation method: Cosmelan. Cosmelan is not just one treatment, but a comprehensive program combining in-clinic treatment and at-home product application followed diligently for a six month period.
Although this is a longer commitment to your skin than you might be used to, the results are truly worth it. Based on studies of Cosmelan users worldwide, 99% of clients experienced a 95% reduction in the appearance of pigmentation.
The Cosmelan mask and supporting products work by regulating the source of pigmentation, while also targeting any existing melanin. The result is a visible reduction in dark spots, blemishes, melasma and other pigmentation irregularities. The best part about Cosmlean? It can be used on any skin phototype from light to dark.
Another great treatment for targeting mild pigmentation is Meso-needling for Pigmentation. Meso-needling for Pigmentation aims to brighten the skin and reduce melanin synthesis by using a micro-needling device to deliver an active meso serum into the deeper layers of the skin.
Product options for pigmentation
When looking to manage minor pigmentation at home, we recommend you use products with effective pigment inhibitors. Products with ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids are known to be effective.
These will help lighten dark marks, brighten dull skin and exfoliate dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, fresher complexion. We recommend Balense Brightening Moisturiser, which contains clover leaf extract, a highly antioxidant active ingredient that brightens the skin and inhibits tyrosinase.
Please note: Always discuss your product choices with an experienced dermal technician to ensure they are safe to be used in conjunction with your current treatment program, or when having treatments such as Cosmelan and Meso-needling.
As you can see, there are plenty of viable treatment options – but it’s always best to check with your dermal technician what will work best for you. Tailored treatments directly suited to your skin’s needs provide the pathway to healthy, maintained skin and diminish the signs of pigmentation.
For more information on the available treatments and packages to treat pigmentation and other skin concerns, please visit us at your local Australian Skin Clinics or buy and book online now!
