Comprehensive Guide For Skin Pigmentation Treatment Options
Worried about dark spots appearing on your skin? Ever wondered what is skin pigmentation and how do they occur? Well, you are not alone. These patches of darker toned skin on the face, neck or body are common among both men and women. Caused due to the excess production of melanin, this condition is known as skin pigmentation. Although these spots or patches occur due to numerous reasons, they are mostly superficial and rarely indicate any underlying problem. A number of options for skin pigmentation treatment in Bangalore are available to effectively treat these skin discolouration and pigmentation issues. Depending on the cause and extent, the treatment options vary. Let’s take a rundown through the many treatment options available for various types of skin pigmentation.
Lightening Creams
Most commonly used for treating types of pigmentation such as age spots or melasma, over-the-counter creams are ideal for treating milder forms of pigmentation. Generally in gel-like consistency, these creams are applied once or twice a day to achieve the desired results. Although these creams are effective, they may take longer than other dermatological procedures to show results. Hence, It is best to ask your doctor before starting your journey with OTC creams and gels.
Medical Facial
Another method of treating darkened patches of skin is through the use of facial acids. Facial acids are mild and work by slowly peeling the upper layer of the skin. This skin pigmentation treatment effectively exfoliates by acting on the outer layer of the skin. Exfoliating with salicylic or glycolic acids brings out the fresh layer of the skin underneath, revealing a lighter complexion and faded spots. Also known as skin acids, their effect is usually more prominent on fairer tones with mild pigmentation.
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Chemical Peels
Like facial acids, chemical peels are more concentrated forms of acids that work on similar lines. Chemical peels have the ability to remove the epidermis to lessen the appearance of any kinds of pigmentation. Certain chemical peels may also enter the layer underneath the epidermis, resulting in significant changes on your pigmented areas.
Although many chemical peels are accessible without a prescription, a professional-grade peel by your doctor may be a better option. It is always better to undergo these procedures with a trusted professional since they can better understand the percentage of the chemicals. When done under the guidance of an expert, the risks associated reduce significantly.
Besides, you are further guided about the precautions and post-care of chemical peel sessions. Chemical peels may not be the greatest treatment option for you if you spend a lot of time in the sun. This procedure increases the sensitivity of your skin to the sun’s rays and therefore, may instead aggravate the pigmentation if you don’t use enough sunscreen and other UV protection. After your chemical peel sessions, you’ll need to take extra care for at least one week.
Retinoids
An ingredient derived from Vitamin A, retinoids are compounds that work wonders on your skin for a variety of issues. Retinoids not only improve the production of collagen but also controls the oil producing bacteria. This compound is available in multiple forms, such as cosmetic and skin care products. Retinoids are available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms. OTC retinoid products usually have a weaker formulation. Retinoids are usually prescribed for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma.
Laser Therapy
Another effective method to treat pigmentation of skin is through laser therapy. Such treatments are particularly effective for forms of pigmentations like melasma. Typically, laser therapies are of two types- ablative and non-ablative. They work by removing the layers of your skin and promoting collagen boost, generating new skin cells respectively. A popular skin pigmentation treatment in Bangalore and other cities, lasers are completely safe for treating skin pigmentation issues.
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Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure which involves an abrasive machine to remove the pigmented layer of skin. Unlike microdermabrasion, dermabrasion is performed by plastic surgeons or dermatologists. Besides being beneficial for pigmentation, this surgical procedure is also recommended for the removal of prominent acne scars and wrinkles.
Microdermabrasion
A minimally invasive procedure, this treatment option “sands” your skin to remove the top layer and bring out the fresh skin from underneath. This treatment option also benefits your skin complexion and texture. Since microdermabrasion is prone to making your skin sensitive to sun, it is essential to protect your skin from direct exposure following the process.
Before starting on any skin pigmentation treatment, it is essential for you to talk to your dermatologist to figure out the root cause of the issue. Different skins respond to treatments differently and therefore having an expert’s guidance will help you take the right decision for your skin.
Dr.Tina Ramachander is one of the best dermatologist in Bangalore and Medical Director at Dr.Tina’s Skin Solutionz, a skin care clinic in Bangalore. She completed her master’s in dermatology from the well acclaimed JJM Medical college in Karnataka and is now a practicising dermatosurgeon and Medical Cosmetologist in Bangalore.