Pigmentation simply refers to the colour of our skin.
However, overactive areas of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) within the skin can cause areas of hyper- or hypopigmentation, giving our skin an uneven appearance.
Hypopigmentation is the loss of the cells’ ability to produce melanin and results in a lighter patch than the surrounding skin, while hyperpigmentation – or excess production – leaves us with darker patches.
The causes for hyperpigmentation can vary, and include:
- ageing and genetic factors
- trauma to the skin
- environmental and UV exposure
- medications and medical conditions, particularly hormonal
As most people will have these experiences, you could say a life well lived causes pigmentation!
The most common types of hyperpigmentation we address in clinic are:
Freckles
Small spots of concentrated melanin, usually brown, tan, red or black. They tend to be activated by UV exposure so tend to bother patients when they are in areas such as the face, arms, neck, and decolletage.
Melasma
While most people associate it with ‘the mask of pregnancy’, it’s much more complex. It’s more common in women than in men, typically occurs between 20-40 years of age and is most common in those that tan easily or have naturally darker skins.
Age Spots (Solar Lentigo)
Caused by repeated UV exposure over time and also known as liver spots, these typically appear as large flat and light brown in colour.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
If you have had an injury or even a mole removed, your doctor will have discussed the possibility of PIH. This is when the inflammation from the injury can disrupt the melanocyte. The melanin may then be unable to spread evenly or may in effect pool or clump in areas. This can be very difficult to treat as the melanocyte is physically damaged.
TREATMENT
Here at Clinic 42, doctors believe that IPL, and in particular the Venus Versa, offer the best overall results in pigment reduction.
IPL uses light-based technology. This generates heat when absorbed by the targeted tissue, while leaving the surrounding tissue undamaged, while a built-in cooling system helps keep the surface of the skin comfortable during the procedure.
The same frequency used to target pigment also targets haemoglobin, so visible veins and blood vessels on the face are also treated at the same time.
IPL works best for light to medium skin tones. The treatment may work on darker skin, but there is a higher risk of discolouration as darker skin has more pigment in it. We encourage patients to have a consultation, discuss what’s involved, and carry out a test patch to check if it’s the right treatment for them.
Most patients will undergo 4-5 treatments per area. The exact number will depend on the individual and the area being treated. Treatments are usually spaced 3-4 weeks apart and our skin therapist will go over what you need to do between treatments. This will involve protecting the area from any UV exposure, which can be difficult during warmer weather, or if it’s the backs of hands.
If you’re interested in finding out more about IPL for pigment or any of the treatments available at Clinic 42, visit our website at clinic42.co.nz.
If you’d like to book an appointment to see one of our practitioners you can do this on our website or contact our reception team on 09 638 4242 or reception@clinic42.co.nz.
