Skin Pigmentation – Marked for Life?

Human skin colour is determined by a pigment called melanin, which is produced by specialized cells in the skin known as melanocytes. Melanin gives colour to the skin, hair, and irises of the eyes. Levels of melanin depend on race and the amount of sunlight exposure. Sun exposure increases melanin production, to protect the skin against harmful ultraviolet rays. In addition, hormonal changes can affect melanin production . One of the first universal steps in minimizing a skin pigmentation condition is protecting oneself from overexposure to the sun.

For some individuals, unusual pigmentation of the skin on certain areas of the face and body can occur, either as a result of aging, genetics, or other contributing factors. Millions of people develop skin pigmentation conditions at some point in their lives. For many, this results in emotional distress and embarrassment. Pigmentation is often widespread amongst middle-aged women. Very few younger women suffer from pigmentation, and the extent of the problem is minimal with a few exceptions. This in fact, is related to the endocrinal changes that occur when women reach middle age.

Fortunately, you can do something about Pigmentation. All it takes is to contact The Melrose Aesthetic Centre, and arrange to consult with one of the Aesthetic Specialists about your condition, and treatment options available to you.

The most common causes of unusual, or excessive skin pigmentation conditions are the following:

Melasma

A hyperpigmentary disorder of the skin, characterized by dark spots or blotches on the face, forehead and neck.

Solar Lentigo

Also called sun, age or liver spots, are benign flat brown spots that look like large brown freckles. They appear on sun-exposed skin, such as the face or back of the hands.

Vitiligo

A hypopigmentation disorder, where the body does not produce enough melanin, that creates smooth white spots on the skin.

Birthmarks and Pigmented Birthmarks

As might be expected, this type of abnormal skin coloration will appear at birth or in just a few weeks following birth. In Pigmented Birthmarks, the discoloration of the skin will appear smooth and flat

Macular Stains

These appear anywhere on the body, occurring as mild red marks, but they are not elevated. Macular stains are the most common type of vascular (from blood vessels) birthmark.

How can these conditions be treated?

The Melrose Aesthetic Centre has a number of methods available to target each individual condition of skin pigmentation safely and effectively. These include both specifically developed skin application products, such as some in the iS Clinical range, as well as The SCITON laser Profile System.

SCITON is a new laser using infrared energy, and the new standard for the treatment of many skin conditions. Your treatment, or combination of treatments, will be tailored to match your skin condition and desired result. Your Aesthetic Specialist may use several options to restore your skin's youthful colour and appearance. All skin areas can be treated. Popular areas are the face, neck, chest and legs. Discuss your needs with your Aesthetic Specialist.