A Guide to Beating Skin Pigmentation

Are you concerned about those blotches of dark skin that suddenly appeared on your face? Do you know what they are? How can you treat them? 

Those blotches of dark skin are called pigmentation. It is a condition that causes skin to appear lighter or darker (mostly). And if you have brown patches, it is known as hyper-pigmentation. 

What causes pigmentation? 

An increased level of melanin (the pigment in skin which determines its color) is one of the reasons of pigmentation. It could be the result of injury, inflammation (after a treatment, like laser), sun damage and hormonal changes.

Know if you are at risk 

Pigmentation patches are mostly common among people with olive and darker skin. 

What causes pigmentation in light-skinned individuals? 

Sun damage is the main cause of pigmentation in light-skinned people. Excessive sun exposure can result in hyperpigmentation – a condition in which pigment production is increased, which results in patchy skin color. Dermatologists generally recommend topical hydroquinone or retinol (an over-the-counter form of vitamin A).

Beyond this, superficial chemical peels containing salicylic acid and glycolic acid is used together with therapies in order to enhance results. Along with this, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) devices and Q-switched lasers are also used to treat pigmentation. 

Daily use of sun protection containing a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or greater can prevent further sun damage.

If your skin is marred due to discoloration or pigmentation, consult a reputed cosmetic skin clinic in Sydney right away to prevent the situation from getting worsen.