Pigmentation

"Find confidence in your skin's unique narrative of resilience and renewal."

Have you ever noticed changes in your skin tone or spots that seem to appear out of nowhere? Skin pigmentation disorders can affect the colour of your skin, causing darker or lighter patches. These changes can happen to anyone, often leading to questions and concerns. But what really causes these variations in skin tone, and how can they be addressed?

At NU.U Clinic, personalised treatment and tailored care are at the forefront of addressing skin pigmentation. The clinic offers a comprehensive approach to understand and treat various pigmentation conditions, ensuring each patient receives the most effective care suited to their specific needs.

Pigmentation refers to the colouring of the skin. Skin cells produce a pigment called melanin, which gives skin its colour. When these cells become damaged or unhealthy, it affects melanin production, leading to pigmentation disorders. These can make the skin appear lighter or darker, or cause patches of colour.

Causes of Pigmentation

Sun Exposure

One of the primary causes of pigmentation changes is exposure to the sun. UV radiation from the sun can increase melanin production, leading to darker patches of skin. Regular use of sunscreen and protective clothing can help manage this risk.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, menopause, or due to birth control pills, can also cause pigmentation changes. These hormonal shifts can increase melanin production, leading to conditions like melasma.

Skin Inflammation

Inflammation from skin injuries, acne, or certain skin treatments can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). This occurs when the skin produces excess melanin in response to the inflammation.

Genetic Factors

Genetics can play a significant role in determining one's risk of developing certain pigmentation disorders. Family history can influence how susceptible you are to conditions like freckles or Hori’s Nevus.

Types of Pigmentation

Freckles

Freckles are small, flat, brown spots that commonly appear on sun-exposed areas. They are harmless and more pronounced in individuals with fair skin.

Melasma

Melasma is marked by brown or blue-grey patches, often on the face, and is more common in women. It can be related to hormonal changes or sun exposure.

Sun Spots (Solar Lentigines)

Also known as liver spots, these are flat, brown spots that develop due to sun exposure, commonly on the face, hands, and arms.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

This condition appears as darkened patches or spots following an inflammatory event, like acne or eczema, and varies in colour from light brown to black.

Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE)

PIE results in red, pink, or purple patches after an inflammatory condition, notably different from PIH by its coloration.

Hori’s Nevus

This type of pigmentation presents as bluish-grey discoloration, often symmetrically on both sides of the face, and is more common in women and those of Asian descent.

Nevus of Ota

Characterised by a blue or greyish discoloration around the eye, Nevus of Ota affects both the skin and the eyes, often congenital.

Treatments for Pigmentation

Multi Frax

Multi Frax is a compact, advanced laser treatment known for its powerful performance, using two types of light wavelengths in a unique, targeted way to improve skin health. It combines 1550 nm and 1927 nm wavelength lasers, allowing it to reach different skin depths for various treatments. It's recognised for its safety and efficacy with approvals from the US FDA and Medical CE. This device is particularly effective for enhancing skin texture, treating wrinkles, scars, and pigmentation, and can also assist in delivering medications to the skin.

Clarity II Laser

The Clarity II Laser by Lutronic is an advanced dual-wavelength laser system that combines the power of long-pulsed Alexandrite (755nm) and Nd:YAG (1064nm) wavelengths. This combination allows for efficient, high-energy treatments capable of addressing a broad spectrum of skin concerns. Its versatility makes it suitable for removing unwanted hair, pigmentation, and vascular lesions across all skin types, enhancing treatment efficiency while reducing time. The Clarity II's design prioritises user convenience and treatment speed, featuring a single fibre delivery system for all area sizes and wavelengths, alongside an intuitive user interface for confident application across various indications.

Dual Yellow Laser

The Dual Yellow Laser is a sophisticated treatment option for those seeking comprehensive skin rejuvenation. It stands out for its versatility and efficacy in treating a range of skin conditions, including acne, as well as vascular and pigmented lesions. This laser technology delivers controlled, precise treatment, minimising skin damage and discomfort while enhancing skin texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and evening out skin tone. The result is brighter, younger-looking skin achieved through a flexible and fast treatment process.

Ellipse I2PL

Ellipse I2PL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a versatile and non-invasive treatment technology used to address a variety of skin conditions. It employs a broad spectrum of light to target specific structures within the skin, depending on the condition being treated. Unlike lasers, which use a single wavelength of light, I2PL uses a multitude of wavelengths, allowing it to be customised for different skin issues and skin types. This adaptability makes Ellipse I2PL a sought-after choice for those seeking a safe and effective solution to their skin concerns.

Hollywood Spectra

Hollywood Spectra is a laser-based treatment aimed at rejuvenating the skin and reducing pigmentation. It’s used for concerns like melasma, acne scars, and fine lines, offering a gentle yet effective solution for enhancing skin appearance. This non-invasive treatment minimises recovery time, making it a convenient option for those seeking noticeable skin improvements without lengthy downtime.

Enlighten PICO

Enlighten PICO is an advanced medical laser that serves as a valuable tool for dermatological treatments. It is especially effective for addressing a range of skin issues, including pigmentation concerns, acne scars, birthmarks, and tattoo removal. Its design incorporates the latest laser technology to provide targeted, effective treatment while minimising discomfort and recovery time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, skin pigmentation disorders are a common concern that can affect anyone, regardless of age or skin type. These conditions range from freckles and age spots to more complex issues like melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Understanding the various types of pigmentation and their underlying causes is crucial for effective treatment. Advances in laser technology and skincare have made it possible to treat these disorders more effectively, with options available to suit different skin types and concerns.

For individuals seeking personalised care for pigmentation issues, NU.U Clinic offers tailored treatment plans designed to address the unique needs of each patient. With a comprehensive approach, NU.U Clinic ensures that patients receive the appropriate and effective treatments.