Pigmentation
Skin pigmentation can sometimes be a source of concern when uneven pigmentation or hyperpigmentation occurs. Melanin is the pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin and comes in two main forms—eumelanin, responsible for brown and black hues, and pheomelanin, contributing to red and yellow tones. The interplay of these pigments determines our skin colour.
Causes of Skin Pigmentation
- Sun Exposure: UV radiation stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin, leading to tanning. Prolonged sun exposure without adequate protection can result in sunspots and hyperpigmentation.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormonal fluctuations can trigger an increase in melanin production, causing conditions like melasma.
- Inflammation and Injury: Inflammatory skin conditions, acne scars, or wounds can prompt melanocytes to produce excess melanin, leading to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Genetic Factors: Genetic predispositions play a role in determining baseline skin pigmentation and susceptibility to conditions like freckles or age spots.
- Age: As we age, the skin's ability to regulate melanin production diminishes, contributing to the development of age spots and an uneven skin tone.
Effective Treatments for Skin Pigmentation Concerns
- Medical Grade Skincare : A comprehensive skincare routine that includes a personalised programme of actives and sunscreen can help reduce pigmentation. Dr Sarah can guide you to a wide variety of carefully curated skincare brands including Alumier, SkinBetter and Neostrata to get the best out of your skin.
- Prescription Medications: Prescription skin care from the Obagi Nuderm Range contains the gold standard ingredient hydroquinone. Subject to consultation.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels involve the application of a chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, revealing a more even complexion and reducing pigmentation.
- Microneedling: Microneedling creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting a more even skin tone. Results can be amplified with exosomes.
- Polynucleotides: At the forefront of regenerative medicine, this novel injectable contains fragments of DNA which act as messenger signals on skin to trigger cell regeneration. It harnesses the body’s own healing mechanisms to rejuvenate the skin and can help improve the appearance of lines, skin laxity and pigmentation.
- Skin booster: Dr Sarah offers Sunekos, which is essentially injectable moisturisers to rejuvenate the skin and improve skin quality and laxity. They also stimulate the body to produce more of its own collagen and elastin and have been shown to have some anti-pigment effects.
Get in Touch
Lancing, STC in Haywards Heath & the Spa at South Lodge, Horsham
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