|
When we evaluate people with pigmentation issues, we always start with determining their Fitzpatricks skin type. This helps identify whether someone is a likely candidate for certain procedures such as IPL photo-facials and other re-surfacing treatments. |
|
|
There are several methods to treat hyper-pigmentation, depending upon the reasons that cause it. I’ll discuss some of the most popular methods here. Not all types of treatments are suitable for every one. Intense Pulsed Light A growing number of people are turning to IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) photo-facial treatments to treat hyper-pigmentation. IPL targets melanin, the dark pigment that gives hair and skin its color. It also targets the red from broken capillaries, which is why IPL is embraced by many people suffering from Rosacea. The red from blood vessels and the brown from the hyper-pigmentation help the laser find its target. While the treatment can be uncomfortable for people with very sensitive skin, these days most lasers typically have a chilled tip, and the technician uses a cooling gel, which also lessens any discomfort. Preparing your skin for some weeks prior to undergoing treatment can not only condition your skin for the treatment but will also speed the skin’s healing time. |
|
IPL offers a solution that: |
|
|
On average, four to six treatments are recommended. Each session usually lasts about 30 minutes, with clients returning to normal activity immediately afterwards. IPL treatments provide gradual, natural improvement with excellent long-term results. Understanding what’s involved in a laser treatment and weighing the benefits and risks can help you decide if these procedures are your best option. |
|
|
In this process, the skin is exfoliated using crystals and/or other types of abrasives, to remove the top layers of the skin removing the dead skin cells from the skin. As a result, new cells are produced. With a series of micro-dermabrasion treatments, visible hyper-pigmentation on the surface of the skin can be greatly improved. |
|
|
|
|
|
Acid Peels: Hydroxy acids: Water soluble alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, and beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acids can be helpful in treating hyper-pigmentation. Acid peels also work by increasing the cell turnover. There are also many other topical treatment solutions available to treat hyper-pigmentation such as kojic acid, azelaic acid, ascorbic acid, tretinoin, topical glucocorticoids, and licorice extract. Since the production of melanin is a tyrosinase based enzyme pathway, products that are tyrosinase inhibitors such as Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid derivatives will block the melanocyte’s ability to produce melanin. Solutions such as Retin A also help to exfoliate the skin which aids in reducing the hyperpigmentation. |
|
|
Remember even if you do treat and get rid of hyper-pigmentation, a single day of excess sun can undo months of treatment. Always apply some protection from the sun, even on overcast days, by applying sun-block lotion to prevent a re-occurrence. Just one photosensitive reaction to the sun can provoke a re-occurrence because the skin cells have a great memory. If you have ever had a photosensitive reaction you should always use a sun protection product!
|
|
|
RECOMMENDED CORRECTIVE PRODUCTS |
|
|
Glycolic Lightening Serum - all skin types - a super corrective formulated with Glycolic, Kojic, and Gallic Acid to accelerate exfoliation of darker pigment cells and suppress melanin production restoring skin to an even color and texture. |
|
|
Intensive Lightening Serum - a potent spot treatment corrective formulated with a constellation of lightening agents to accelerate exfoliation of darker pigment cells and suppress melanin production restoring skin to an even color and texture |
|