There are many types of pigmentation found in the skin; learn more about three of the most common types and their solutions below!
Post Inflammatory pigmentation
This is a condition that can affect absolutely anyone. It’s caused by inflammation, producing more melanin and darker-looking areas on the skin.
There is a multitude of causes, but more commonly, it can be caused by acne, itching, burns, friction and aggressive skin treatment.
Those with darker skin types are at higher risk and may even suffer from this type of pigmentation from prolonged heat exposure from treatments like waxing,
This can be a very distressing form of pigmentation that can appear anywhere on the body. For many people, it will continue to get worse if it’s caused by repetitive issues such as shaving or acne.
It’s important to seek professional help with post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Unfortunately, it can be made worse very easily! There are tons of over-the-counter products aimed at pigmentation, but they rarely provide a solution.
With post-inflammatory pigmentation, the problem is at a much deeper level, which only medical-grade treatments or products can reach.
Fortunately, there are now many treatment options available, including prescription strength creams such as Hydroquinone, as well as lasers such as the Picosure Pro, LaseMD, and skin treatments such as Dermapen (micro-needling).
For those looking for an at-home treatment option, Hydroquinone from Obagi can be purchased after consultation and used daily at home with medical guidance; this can also be used in conjunction with your treatments for even better results.
Melasma
A troublesome condition mainly for a woman but can also affect men too. Melasma is caused by high levels of Estrogen in the body.
Therefore, it predominantly affects women who are pregnant (this is specifically called Chloasma), breastfeeding, on an Estrogen only contraceptive pill or on HRT medication.
Certain medications and genetics that cause light sensitivity can also cause Melasma, as the skin struggles to protect itself from UV exposure.
Melasma is sometimes referred to as the ‘pregnancy/butterfly mask’ and usually shows itself symmetrically across the face; affected areas are generally the upper lip, cheekbones and central forehead.
Some many treatments and products will make Melasma worse, such as IPL, certain skin peels, and products that cause inflammation which can then accelerate the production of pigmentation.
As the pigmentation darkens, the sun will be more attracted to these areas, and typically, there will usually be superficial pigmentation on top of the Melasma- this will usually be faster and easier to remove than the Melasma itself.
Once the hormonal influence is stopped, the skin can return to normal over the course of a few years should you apply a zinc-based sun cream daily and avoid the sun.
For most people, two years is too long, particularly when it’s on the face.
Pulse Light Clinic are unique in that they have treated Melasma for over a decade. Technology is constantly improving, and now with the launch of the Picosure Pro, Pulse Light Clinic is now achieving faster results on Melasma.
Using the Visia Skin Analysis machine, results can be monitored with each session.
Plus, nutritional guidance can be added to your plan, as well as the LED light therapy to further maximise results.
Sun Damage/ Freckles
The easiest and most common of the 3 to remove, sun damage sits superficially in the skin, making removal much faster.
Freckles generally lighten in Winter and darken in Summer. They tend to develop after repeated UV sun exposure.
They are commonly found on the face, but many people also have them on the chest and arms. Sun cream and avoiding the sun will, of course, reduce the production of melanin.
However, treatment is straightforward and usually needs around three sessions. Options for treatment include the Candela Gentle Max Pro Alexandrite laser for fair skin types, Picosure Pro and LaseMD for all skin types.
Whichever type of pigmentation you have, eliminating sun exposure and wearing zinc-based sun cream, such as Obagi sun shield SPF 50, are the first steps you need to take.
Pulse Light Clinic offer all these solutions. They are suitable for all skin types and provide results from as little as one session!