Pigmentation: Causes and Treatments
Ever looked in the mirror and wondered why your skin tone isn't as even as it used to be? Or maybe you've noticed those little spots that weren't there in your younger years. You're not alone…
Like many of you, I've seen firsthand how pigmentation can change the way we feel about our skin. Those little patches of discoloration, whether they're from the sun, hormonal changes, or just part of aging, can make us question our skin's health.
Pigmentation, or hyperpigmentation as it's technically known, isn't picky. It can appear in our 20s, 30s, 40s, or even later in life. And it's not just about age – factors like sun exposure, genetics, and hormonal changes (hello, pregnancy and menopause!) all play a role.
Understanding Pigmentation
Pigmentation occurs when our skin produces more melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its colour. This can happen in small patches, large areas, or affect the entire body. Ever noticed how a summer tan fades but leaves behind those stubborn dark spots? That's a classic case of sun-induced pigmentation.
What is the main cause of pigmentation?
Treating pigmentation isn't as simple as slapping on any old cream and hoping for the best. It's about understanding your skin's unique story. At Aion Aesthetics & Facials, we don't just treat pigmentation; we get to know it deeply. Is it from too much sun exposure over the years? Or is it hormonal and connected to changes within your body? Maybe it's even a part of your genetic makeup? We take the time to find out, and then we tailor our approach specifically to your skin's individual needs.
Sun Exposure: The Usual Culprit The sun is like that friend who's fun to hang out with but can sometimes be a bit too much. Sun exposure is one of the most common causes of pigmentation. When we bask in the sun, our skin produces more melanin to protect itself from UV rays. This can lead to sunspots or exacerbate existing pigmentation. It's like your skin's way of saying, "I've had enough!"
Hormonal Influences: The Internal Factor Ever heard of the 'mask of pregnancy’? This term refers to melasma, a type of pigmentation often triggered by hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or when using hormonal contraceptives. It's like your hormones are throwing a party and inviting melanin to join in.
Age: As we age, our skin undergoes various changes. Sometimes, these changes involve the development of age spots, also known as liver spots. They're like little timestamps, showing the passage of years on our skin.
Genetics: Sometimes, pigmentation is just part of our genetic makeup. If your parents or grandparents had pigmentation issues, chances are, you might too. It's like a family heirloom, but for your skin (sorry!).
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): PIH occurs following skin injury or inflammation. It's common after acne lesions, cuts, or burns. It's your skin's response to the healing process – a bit overzealous, maybe, but well-intentioned.
How can I remove my pigmentation?
Pigmentation can be stubborn and, for cases like sun exposure, prevention is your best bet at stopping the production of sunspots.
However, if it’s too late for prevention, there are some ingredients to look for in your skincare and specialist treatments that you can book with us that will help speed up the process of removing pigmentation.
Sun Protection: It's your first line of defense. Use a broad-spectrum SPF daily to prevent further pigmentation. Use at least factor 30 and avoid going out in direct sunlight, particularly around midday when the sun is at its strongest.
Topical Remedies: When searching for skincare products, it's beneficial to seek out ingredients containing niacinamide, known for its multifaceted skin benefits. For those looking for more robust options, vitamin C can be a potent ally in enhancing skin health. Additionally, considering the potential advantages of incorporating retinoids into your skincare routine can lead to noticeable improvements in skin quality and texture. These ingredients possess unique properties that can aid in achieving a radiant and healthy complexion.
Consistency is Key: Remember, with at-home treatments, patience and consistency are crucial. Results take time and, there is only so much skincare can do to penetrate your skin as it often affects the epidermis (the top layer) and so specialist treatment like SkinPen microneedling can help you to reach deeper into the dermis and stimulate wound-healing.
SkinPen and Pigmentation
When at-home treatments just don't cut it, it's time to bring out the big guns. Enter SkinPen, a medically-driven, minimally invasive treatment known for its effectiveness against pigmentation.
SkinPen is a type of microneedling device that gently punctures the skin, creating micro-injuries. Sounds scary? It's not. These micro-injuries kickstart your skin's natural healing process, boosting collagen production and leading to healthier, more even-toned skin.
Targeted Treatment: SkinPen targets the root cause of pigmentation. It works by breaking down pigment clusters and promoting rejuvenation from within.
Safe and Controlled: Unlike some aggressive treatments, SkinPen offers a safe and controlled method of addressing pigmentation, suitable for various skin types.
Minimal Downtime: You can get back to your routine quickly, with minimal downtime compared to more invasive procedures.
At Aion Aesthetics & Facials, the Microneedling Facial includes a personalised skin journey. We start with a thorough consultation to understand your skin's unique story. Then, we tailor the SkinPen session to your specific pigmentation concerns and guide you through the aftercare process, ensuring your skin receives the love and attention it needs to heal beautifully.