Skin Pigmentation Treatments

Dark spots on the skin are a natural outcome of aging and sun exposure. These patches are caused by increased melanin – the dark pigment – in the skin. Excessive melanin leads to hyperpigmentation, resulting in darker skin spots.

Skin pigmentation problems are treatable due to advances in the medical-cosmetic field. With various hyperpigmentation treatments available, you can get rid of dark spots and achieve an even skin tone. However, your practitioner must first analyze your problem to determine the exact cause so that they can prescribe the most suitable treatment option.

Signs & Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of hyperpigmentation include

• Black or brown patches on the skin
• Skin discoloration after injury or inflammation
• Discolored patches turning darker with sun exposure
• Darkening or enlargement of existing pigmented areas or spots

What are the causes of Hyperpigmentation?

The primary cause of hyperpigmentation is the excessive production of melanin. Factors that contribute to this condition include

• Hereditary – Skin type, family history, and genetic predisposition to skin disorders are a few among various hereditary factors that make an individual more prone to developing hyperpigmentation.
• Excessive exposure to the sun– The Sunlight invokes the body to produce more melanin which may lead to hyperpigmentation.
• Hormonal changes – Estrogen and progesterone can contribute to hyperpigmentation. These hormones are produced during the menstrual cycle.
• Certain medications – Hyperpigmentation may be caused by cytotoxic medicines, tetracyclines, and psychotropic drugs. Therefore, It is a good idea to discuss your medication with your dermatologist to rule out its tendency to cause hyperpigmentation or prevent this undesirable side effect.
• Physical and Chemical Injuries – The pigmentation issue that occurs after physical or chemical injuries is called Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It can also occur due to acne, eczema, psoriasis, or other inflammatory skin conditions.
• Exposure to radiation – Cancer patients who undergo radiation therapy are more prone to hyperpigmentation.
• Scarring – Scars with pigmentation problems usually result from deep partial- and full-thickness burns, specific skin traumas, and surgical procedures. Scars on your body may become darker than the surrounding skin when too much melanin is produced in the scar tissues. Conversely, inadequate melanin production and distribution can cause a scar to appear lighter-pigmented compared to the surrounding skin.

Are you a Candidate?

You can be an ideal candidate for skin pigmentation treatment if you have the following skin conditions

• Hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation
• Freckles
• Melasma
• Age Spots
• Hyperpigmentation
• Sunspots
• Birthmarks
• Sun-damaged skin

Preparations

Preparing your skin before receiving the pigmentation treatment is essential for achieving desired results. To prepare for the procedure, you have to follow the following instructions.

• Avoid taking aspirin or other blood thinners.
• Stop using any skin-lightening agents, retinoids, or exfoliating products.
• Get all the prescribed tests done.
• Take prescribed medicines on time.
  Avoid direct sunlight exposure.

Furthermore, it is important to speak to your doctor before undergoing the treatment if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a medical condition.

Pigmentation Treatment Options

Various treatment options are available for reducing the appearance of pigmentation. These options include

Topical medications

This option is suitable for superficial pigmentation that affects the top layer of skin. Hydroquinone is the topical agent usually considered for treating pigmentation in many parts of the world. Other options include azelaic acid, glycolic acid, kojic acid, and licorice extract.

Oral medications

Oral medications are also a treatment option for pigmentation, but they are suitable for certain kinds of discoloration only.

PRP microneedling

PRP microneedling is an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, reduces pigmentation by stimulating collagen production. And PRP boosts healing response and helps regulate melanin production. Together, PRP and microneedling work synergistically and may improve skin tone and reduce dark spots.

Laser treatment

Laser treatment for skin pigmentation can effectively reduce pigmentation marks on the skin. Not only can it remove the red-pigmented marks on the face, but it also promotes skin regeneration and collagen production. Lasers commonly used for treating pigmentation include alexandrite and fractional CO2.

IPL therapy

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a light-based therapy that can effectively treat hyperpigmentation, among other skin problems. The light energy emitted by the IPL device is converted into heat energy that breaks down melanin into smaller particles that are eventually cleared by the body.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels are a non-invasive treatment that can be highly effective for pigmentation. The procedure involves applying chemicals on the skin that peels off the upper skin layer, revealing new, healthy, and less pigmented skin surfaces. Chemical peels are available in different strengths depending on the severity of the condition.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic treatment that uses an abrasive instrument to gently sand the outer skin layer. It can be an effective treatment for skin discoloration and sun damage, depending on the cause and extent of the problem.

Surgical correction

Surgical excision or skin grafting may be needed for certain types of hyperpigmentation or when other treatments are unsuccessful. The types of pigmented marks typically requiring surgical correction include deep dermal melasma, congenital melanocytic nevi, treatment-resistant hyperpigmentation, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that hasn’t responded to other treatments.

Which Machines Are Used?

The machines used to perform hyperpigmentation laser treatment are;

• SmartXide
• PICO

Recovery

The recovery time and downtime after hyperpigmentation treatment significantly depend on the treatment procedure, skin type, and an individual’s skin response. Most noninvasive or minimally invasive procedures lead to less downtime and shorter recovery than invasive and surgical treatments. However, some minimally invasive options, like deep chemical peels or certain lasers, can lead to extensive recovery and downtime.

Treatment Benefits

There are many benefits of skin pigmentation treatment in Dubai which include:

• It is a non-surgical treatment that is performed without using anesthesia.
• It is a pain-free procedure.
• No severe side effects are associated with this treatment.
• No downtime is associated with the procedure, and recovery is also quick.
• The results become visible immediately after the treatment and are long-lasting.

What are the different types of hyperpigmentation?

The three main types of hyperpigmentation include

• Age spots
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (hyperpigmentation caused by injury, sun exposure, or a skin condition like acne)
• Melasma (hyperpigmentation caused by hormonal imbalance or exposure to sunlight or heat)

How should I care for my skin after the treatment?

Regardless of the treatment, taking good care of your skin is necessary to prevent a reoccurrence of hyperpigmented spots. Avoid sun exposure by wearing sunscreen, and stay on top of your skin care regimen.

Can hyperpigmentation be completely cured?

Although several treatment options are available to improve hyperpigmentation, they are not guaranteed to eliminate all pigmented spots. Some pigmentations fade on their own, while others may need treatments. Moreover, the extent to which hyperpigmentation can be reduced depends on the cause, the selected treatment option, the skin type, and the depth of the pigmentation.

Are there creams available for pigmentation?

Yes, there are many commercial creams available in the market. However, the composition and concentration of ingredients can vary significantly from product to product. Therefore, it is imperative to consult a dermatologist before using any cream.

Disclaimer

The outcome of the skin pigmentation treatment in Dubai varies depending on the type of treatment you are selecting. The results are not permanent, and you will require repeated treatments. No Guarantee, as the results may vary from person to person.

Skin Pigmentation FAQs

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Dubai Cosmetic Surgery Clinic is one of the top names in the field of cosmetic and plastic surgery. You can contact us anytime to consult with our dermatologists regarding skin pigmentation treatment in Dubai. Fill in the following form, and one of our staff members will get back to you to book your appointment. To explore more about the location of Dubai Cosmetic Surgery, visit our address guide.