What Is Skin Pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation is a very common skin condition affecting almost every person where you see darker patches or spots on the skin that make your skin tone uneven. Sometimes, they disappear on their own over time. At other times, they need intervention. Skin pigmentation is a significant cause of mental distress in beauty enthusiasts.
What Causes Skin Pigmentation?
There can be many different reasons for skin pigmentation. Some occur due to exposure to the elements, while others are because of internal factors. Let’s look at some factors that can cause your skin to develop spots:
- Unprotected sun exposure
- Rash or acne recovery
- Side effects of medicines like birth control
- Hormonal changes
- Genetic predisposition
- Advanced age
- Stress
- Naturally-occurring freckles
- Birthmarks
- Accumulation of dead cells over years
- Acanthosis nigricans (discoloration around body folds)
- Repeated friction
In addition, some dark patches on the skin may be a symptom of underlying diseases like liver disease, diabetes, etc. If that is the case, the root cause must be addressed before treating the pigmentation.
How Does A Dermatologist Treat Skin Pigmentation?
The appropriate treatment for skin pigmentation will be based on the root cause and the extent of the pigmentation. Let’s look at some viable treatment options:
- Medicines & Supplements: This course of treatment is best for new pigmentation or for pigmentation caused by nutritional deficiencies. Sunscreens, antioxidants, niacinamide, hydroquinone, retinoids, etc. can be used topically or orally to lighten dark spots. However, these treatments take time to show visible results and you will be required to continue consistent use to maintain the results. Medicines and supplements are also used to complement other depigmentation treatments.
- Chemical Exfoliation: Products containing AHAs and BHAs penetrate deep into the pores and remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. They are most effective for acne-prone skin. They are available commercially but for best results, consult a dermatologist and devise a tailored plan for your specific issues.
- Chemical Peels: Chemical peels use stronger concentrations of acids to exfoliate the skin more deeply. They can only be applied in-clinic by a trained dermatologist. These chemicals remove the top layer of skin to reveal newer, smoother skin underneath. However, they may cause temporary redness, irritation, or peeling, and hence, proper post-treatment care is crucial.
- Microdermabrasion: In this procedure, a mildly abrasive tool is swiped over your skin to cause microscopic bruises which the skin heals by producing extra collagen. This, in turn, wipes away the pigmented skin and gives birth to fresh, new skin. It is most effective for treating superficial scars, fine lines, and mild hyperpigmentation.
- Dermabrasion: Dermabrasion is a more intensive procedure where the epidermis and part of the dermis are removed. It prompts more collagen production and replaces severely pigmented skin with younger-looking skin. However, in this case, you can see some redness and swelling that will subside over a few days with gentle care.
- Mesotherapy: In this therapy, a concoction of beneficial vitamins, enzymes, and hormones, are injected into the target area over multiple sessions to lighten dark spots and improve overall skin tone and texture.
- Light Therapy: Also known as phototherapy, this procedure uses red LED light therapy, super blue light, or intense pulsed light (IPL) to lighten dark spots. It is non-invasive and generally painless. However, you will need multiple sessions to see optimal results.