HOW TO LIGHTEN SKIN DISCOLORATIONS

How to Lighten Skin Discolorations

Skin discolorations come with many names: e.g. freckles, age spots, melasma, and PIH. These are all classified as hyperpigmentation, defined as skin darkening caused by abundance of melanin.

The location of excess melanin pigmentation is important. It is either in the outer (epidermal) layer or the inner (dermal) layer of your skin. If the skin discoloration is very pronounced, the excess pigment is probably in the outer layer. Subtle marks indicate deeper layer of pigmentation.

If the excess melanin is in the deeper dermal layer, like dermal melasma, the discoloration can be most difficult to treat. Topical remedy won’t work. Fractional lasers will not help either. The practical remedy is just a cosmetic cover up. The good news is that positive results have been achieved with multi-session Nd:Yag laser treatment.

Fortunately, most cases of skin discolorations are the epidermal type, like freckles and age spots, and non-dermal melasma.

Freckles are usually hereditary, with melanocytes producing more than the normal melanin pigments. The more you are exposed to the sun, the darker the freckles get. Daily sun protection is a must!

Age spots are small brown patches of the skin, the cumulative effect of unprotected sun exposure since birth. The number of pigment producing melanocytes is increased, leading to dark brown spots. Once age spots are formed, they remain pretty stable in their color even if you get more sun exposure.

Melasma is triggered by hormonal fluctuation, during pregnancy, and aggravated by sun exposure.

Exfoliate and lighten skin discolorations
with DERMAX Retinol C serum

Treatment options for epidermal discolorations are:

• Topical treatments with sunscreens and lightening creams & lotions
• Peels, combined with topical treatments
• Dermal roller
• Fractional lasers and Nd:Yag laser

Save on unnecessary expense by consulting first with your dermatologist. They are trained to diagnose if you have dermal or epidermal type of pigmentation. They will then prescribe the best treatment option for your specific skin condition.

 

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This column was published in the Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Section on August 5, 2014 . The author is the CEO of SkinStation. He received the 2011 Outstanding Chemist Award from Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) for his achievements in the field of cosmetic chemistry. Skin Smart aims to clarify facts and myths on skin care. Send your questions and comments to info@skinstation.ph.