What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation refers to areas or patches of skin that appear darker; and can be caused by a number of factors.
If you have noticed parts of your skin appear darker than before, you may be experiencing increased pigmentation. The issue is not harmful, but can be of some cosmetic concern. Read on to find out about the different types of hyperpigmentation, and how it can be resolved…
What are the types of pigmentation?
There are several types of hyperpigmentation. Simple freckles, brown sunspots and flat brown birthmarks are among the most commonly treated pigmentations. Melasma is a form of pigmentation that occurs as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy and leads to areas of darkened skin most commonly on the stomach and face. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs as a result of injury or inflammation of the skin and often affects those with acne.
What causes it?
One of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation is an excess production of the pigment that gives skin its colour, melanin. Melanin is produced by cells in the skin.
Hyperpigmentation can also be caused by certain medications, while hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect one’s production of melanin. Too much exposure to the sun can also increase one’s melanin levels.
How can it be treated?
Hyperpigmentation can be treated in a number of ways. Laser treatments are among the most effective techniques in clearing pigmentation.
Some forms of pigmentation can be treated with the help of chemical peels. Chemical peels work by removing the epidermis, which reduces the appearance of pigmentation.
Skin resurfacing is another treatment option that involves the use of light beams to remove layers of the skin and improve the overall appearance of the skin. In some cases, skin resurfacing is suitable in improving the appearance of pigmentation.
In some cases, microdermabrasion can be used to treat some pigment changes or discolouration. The procedure involves the use of a handheld tool that gently removes the epidermis. Besides restoring the skin’s luminosity that may have been lost through sun damage, the treatment also improves the appearance of mild acne scarring.
How can we help?
At Ada Aesthetic Medicine, we offer effective laser treatments to resolve skin pigmentation, sunspots, and discolouration. We generally use our Q-switched Ruby and Nd: YAG lasers to target deep skin pigmentation and reduce the appearance of benign brown pigmentation. We also use our IPL, BBL and fractional lasers to address sun damage pigmentation and more superficial forms of pigmentation. If you are struggling with pigmentation and would like to find out more about how we can help, please read about our laser treatments here.
We also offer skin peels, which can be used to resolve a number of skin issues, including some pigmentation and blemishes. We offer a variety of peels, ranging from superficial to medium depth. To find out more about our skin peels, please have a look here.
The team at Ada Aesthetic Medicine also offers gentle skin resurfacing, that can improve a number of conditions and freshen up the overall appearance of the skin. Find out more about the treatment here. We also offer microdermabrasion, which reduces certain pigmentation changes and discolouration. Find out how it works here.
To arrange an appointment at our Sydney clinic, please contact us here. We offer a wide range of treatments, including facial aesthetics, skin and laser treatments. For a full list of the treatments available at Ada Aesthetic Medicine, please have a look here.
