Pigmentation Management
Pigmentation, or hyperpigmentation, is the darkening of the skin in localised patches or widespread areas. Pigmentation may be caused by hormonal fluctuations, sun exposure, inflammation, ageing and certain medications that can result in an overproduction of melanin (pigment) from melanocytes (pigment producing cells). There are different types of cosmetic pigmentation disorders including:
Sun spots which are caused by chronic sun exposure and ageing.
Melasma which is a brownish discolouration generally occurring in patches across the face. Melasma is the result of hormonal factors such as the oral contraceptive pill, pregnancy, genetics and sun exposure.
Post-Inflammatory hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation is a condition caused by damage or trauma to the skin which may occur due to acne, deep chemical peels, LASERs and IPL treatments.
Pigmentation disorders may also be caused by some medications.
Pigmentation disorders are difficult to treat, may never be cured and must be managed on a gentle ongoing basis.