13 Sep Skin Pigmentation Conditions: Causes and Treatment Options
Skin pigmentation is generally a harmless condition, but it can cause many cosmetic issues in those who experience discolouration in visible areas of their bodies. Genetics, sun exposure, age and pregnancy are all contributors to skin discolouration, and for many individuals, the appearance of freckles or age spots is not a concern. Other times, skin pigmentation can become noticeable to a point where individuals are self-conscious about their skin. When discomfort arises, then corrective treatment at The DOC Clinic may be necessary.
What Is Skin Pigmentation?
Also known as hyperpigmentation, skin pigmentation occurs when the melanin (or darker pigment) becomes overactive, causing darker spots to arise in the surrounding skin. Hyperpigmentation can affect any skin colour and can vary in intensity, but usually, the condition occurs in those who regularly expose themselves to the sun or who are born with naturally pigmented skin.
Many forms of hyperpigmentation exist, including age spots, freckles, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. Although some of these conditions are common, with many people choosing not to seek treatment for the discolouration on their skin, certain forms of hyperpigmentation can cause aesthetic concerns, especially when located on the face or other more visible areas.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Certain skin pigmentation conditions are traced back to heredity. Freckles, for instance, are widely believed to occur due to genetic makeup. Other external factors play a role in whether our skin becomes discoloured as well, including:
- Tanning
- Hormonal changes due to pregnancy
- Certain medications
- Hormonal changes due to birth control
- Acne scarring or other skin injuries
- Skin picking
Regardless of the specific cause of hyperpigmentation, the condition is likely to become more prominent with age, and with increased exposure to UV light, the cells in our skin that are responsible for melanin distribution typically become less controlled and result in dark patches of skin throughout the body.
How Can Skin Pigmentation be Treated?
The treatment received for hyperpigmentation depends on the specific form of the condition, and Dr Omarjee will determine the best treatment option during a consultation. Some of the treatment mechanisms provided for skin pigmentation at The DOC Clinic include:
RevLite laser technology: A non-invasive laser that sends short pulses of energy into the skin in order to break up the excess melanin and revitalise the production of collagen. The increase of collagen in the skin works to promote an even complexion.
Cosmeceutical skin care: Usually a topical treatment that contains a higher concentration of a cosmetic skin-care product. The high concentration penetrates deeper into the skin, promoting the production of elastin and collagen, which are known to heal cosmetic wounds.
Hydrodermabrasion: An exfoliation tool that uses the power of water to break up dead skin cells on the surface of the face and improve upon the skin’s natural texture. Dr Omarjee uses the Bio-Hydroderm Trinity machine to cleanse the skin and remove dark patches of skin.
Facial peels: One of the first steps in eliminating sun damage that applies a chemical to the face to smooth skin texture and pigment. Multiple facial peels are available depending on the severity of the skin condition with both mild and medium-depth peels available.
Skin needling: A more recent treatment that uses a combination of fine needles to penetrate the skin and cause collagen to revitalise the microscopic wounds created by the needles. Dr Omarjee uses the Dermapen on the face, neck and hands to treat wrinkles and minimise scarring.
LimeLight IPL treatment: A device used to administer light pulses of energy onto areas of the face, chest, arms and back in order to lighten the appearance of freckles and age spots. The treatment is also very effective in alleviating rosacea in patients.
Fraxel laser resurfacing: Using fractional laser technology, Fraxel skin resurfacing helps the skin naturally rejuvenate areas of the face affected by age or sunspots. The laser technology works with the body’s own healing composition to create smoother skin texture.
Laser Genesis: The use of the YAG laser works to prompt the body’s own healing response and treat skin conditions such as age spots, large pores, uneven skin tone or redness. The results are vibrant skin with a more even skin tone.
If skin pigmentation is causing you to feel self-conscious about your skin, then a corrective treatment at The DOC Clinic may be able to help. During a scheduled consultation, Dr Omarjee will evaluate your skin and determine the most effective treatment method based on your specific case. If you would like more information about the services we provide, please call us on (03) 9021 6022.