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Pigment Problems

Hyperpigmentation

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is the medical term given to the range of conditions whereby patches of skin become darker than surrounding areas. As it is more common in sun exposed parts such as the face, sufferers often feel particularly disfigured.

There are many types of hyperpigmentation but the two most common are Melasma and Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Melasma is a characteristic darkening of the forehead, nose and cheeks often seen in pregnant women. It is sometimes referred to as "the mask of pregnancy". It can also be caused by oral contraceptive pill usage. It affects women far more frequently than men.

PIH is a response to a range of condition such as acne, eczema, infection, cosmetic treatments and friction e.g. from tight clothes.

What causes it?

The main pigment in the skin is called melanin. Melanin is protective against the harmful UV rays of sunlight. The darker the skin, the more melanin the skin contains. Melanin is produced in cells called melanocytes and transferred to skin cells called keratinocytes. In response to a variety of stimuli such as sun exposure, more melanin is produced and transferred to the upper skin, resulting in the suntan. Certain conditions cause localized changes in pigment resulting in the various forms of hyperpigmentation.

What can I do about it?

The first and most important step is to get a proper diagnosis from a suitably qualified doctor as to the actual underlying condition. The response to treatment will depend on the location of the abnormal pigment. If it is in the upper part of the skin called the epidermis then topical (skin applied) treatments can be tried. If it is lower down in the dermis, there will be no response to current topical therapies and laser treatment may be the only option.

What are the treatment options?

A variety of lightening agents have been developed. They vary in their effectiveness. A thorough understanding of good skin care is the cornerstone of treatment. As sunlight stimulates melanin production, adequate sun protection is vital. In addition many of the treatments can cause irritation of the skin which will worsen on sun exposure. Many people in the UK are under the impression that they only need sunscreen on hot summer days or whilst abroad. In fact, the harmful UV rays are present all year round and accordingly the use of a good sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) should form part of the daily routine. Moisturising and gentle exfoliation are also important as it helps to remove dead skin cells which contain the pigment.

Combination treatments

It has been shown that many of the agents work better in combination. The main reason for this is that they work on different parts of the pigment process and that one action may enhance another.

Amelan®

The Amelan® system is an extremely effective treatment for Melasma and PIH. As well as eliminating the excessive pigment, it also improves the texture of the skin.

What does the treatment involve?

There are two parts to the treatment.

Whilst at the clinic, the doctor will clean the skin and then apply a face mask. You will be told when to remove this (usually 10-12 hours later).

As you will leave the clinic with the mask still applied, please make appropriate transport arrangements.

After removing the mask at home, you will be given products to apply, on a daily basis.

Results

In the majority of patients, the pigmentation marks improve by 90%.