What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation is a common condition for all skin tones, where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This occurs due to over stimulation of pigment producing cells (melanocytes) to produce brown pigment deposits (melanin) in the skin.
It can affect people of any ethnicity or skin colour. Pigmentation takes many forms including: melasma, brown pigmentation, uneven skin tone, sun exposure damage, freckles and age spots.
What causes pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation occurs when your skin produces increased amounts of melanin, the pigment responsible for your skin’s colour. Several factors can trigger or worsen pigmentation, including:
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged or intense UV radiation from the sun can stimulate excess melanin production, leading to sunspots, freckles, and uneven skin tone.
- Hormonal Changes: Conditions like melasma often result from hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, contraception use, menopause, or certain medical conditions.
- Skin Inflammation or Injury: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation commonly follows acne, skin injuries, or inflammatory skin conditions, leaving behind darker patches as the skin heals.
- Ageing: With age, cumulative sun exposure and natural skin changes can lead to age spots (also called solar lentigines), typically found on the hands, face, and chest.
- Genetics: Your genetic makeup influences how easily pigmentation develops, making some people more prone to freckles, melasma, or uneven skin tone.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, including hormonal treatments or antibiotics, can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, triggering pigmentation.
What skincare cremes help improve the appearance of skin discolouration and pigmentation?
Sunscreen and avoiding further sun damage is a simple first line treatment. Over the counter cremes which may improve pigmentation include:
At Contour we have a range of pigment inhibiting, skin lightening and vitamin infused creams your treating practitioner may recommend depending on your unique
Are laser treatments for pigmentation painful?
Laser treatments for pigmentation are generally well tolerated. Most people describe the sensation during treatment as mild discomfort, similar to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against the skin. The level of discomfort can vary based on the type of laser used and your individual sensitivity.
To ensure your comfort, topical cooling or other pain-management options may be used during the procedure. Mild redness, warmth, or sensitivity may be experienced after the treatment, but these effects usually subside quickly.
