Pigmentation refers to the coloration of the skin, hair, and eyes. It is determined by the amount and type of melanin, which is the primary pigment in the skin produced by cells called melanocytes. Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that makes some areas of the skin darker than others.
Skin pigmentation develops due to various factors, each contributing to the overproduction of melanin.
Individuals with a family history of pigmentation disorders may be genetically predisposed to develop similar conditions due to inherited traits that affect how their skin produces and distributes melanin.
Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy or as a result of hormonal therapies like birth control or hormone replacement therapy, can affect the skin, often leading to pigmentation changes. This is largely due to how hormones interact with melanocytes, the cells responsible for creating melanin.
Adrenal gland disorders like Addison’s disease can affect melanin production, changing skin pigmentation. The adrenal glands above the kidneys are crucial for regulating several hormones, including cortisol and aldosterone, which are vital for managing stress, metabolism, and immune response.
When the skin is exposed to harsh UV rays, it increases melanin production as a natural defence mechanism. Melanin absorbs UV radiation to protect the deeper layers of skin from damage.
Trauma to the skin, including cuts, burns, acne, or even cosmetic procedures, can often result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This condition occurs when the skin’s natural healing process following an injury triggers an overproduction of melanin in response to the inflammation. The result is the development of darkened areas or spots where the injury or inflammation occurred.
Certain medications, including some antibiotics, hormonal treatments, and other prescription drugs, can cause pigmentation changes as an unintended side effect. These medications can interfere with the regular functioning of melanocytes, leading to either darkening of the skin or, less commonly, lightening of the skin.
Drug-induced pigmentation is generally benign but can be cosmetically concerning for affected individuals.
Small, flat brown spots often appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, especially in lighter-skinned individuals. Freckles are typically harmless but can become more pronounced with sun exposure.
These are larger, darker spots that develop with age or sun exposure, often seen on the face, hands, and arms. They can differ in size and are generally benign.
Often called “sun spots,” these brown patches develop due to cumulative sun exposure, typically in older adults.
Unlike the above types, vitiligo involves the loss of pigmentation, developing white patches on the skin. This condition is autoimmune and requires specialised treatment.
Q-switched lasers emit light in extremely short, high-intensity bursts, making them effective at reaching pigments in deeper skin layers without damaging surrounding tissue. The laser energy permeates the skin and breaks down pigment into tiny particles. The body’s natural healing processes then work to absorb and eliminate these fragments over time, gradually lightening the stubborn pigmentation.
The fractional laser is applied precisely to the affected areas, targeting pigmentation without harming the surrounding skin.
Microneedling puncture the skin with tiny needles, promoting collagen production and helping reduce pigmentation. It is especially effective for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and can be paired with lightening serums.
Chemical peels use acids like glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid to exfoliate the surface of the skin, promoting cell turnover and fading dark spots. Peels range in intensity, with deeper peels requiring professional application and aftercare.
Once you have achieved your desired results, you must take measures to prevent new pigmentation from forming. Follow these tips:
At DermAlly, we provide tailored solutions for pigmentation removal in Singapore. Our experienced dermatologists assess each patient’s skin condition and history to create a comprehensive approach combining Pico laser and topical treatments.
Contact us today to learn more about our pigmentation removal treatments.
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