Pigmentation Treatment

If pigmentation is such a good thing, where does it all begin to go wrong? Why does one of nature’s smartest skin defence mechanisms go out of control? Sunlight, skin ageing and genetics can push melanin production into overdrive. The condition is called Hyperpigmentation (from the Greek: ‘Hyper’ = Over or Excessive). In brief, it shows up as freckles, age spots, uneven skin tone and several other conditions we shall look at in detail. So while pigmentation is normal and essential, hyperpigmentation is something you would want to stay clear of.

Hyperpigmentation occurs as skin turns more vulnerable to the elements. Skin cells get damaged by overexposure to UV rays, which disrupts melanin production and distribution. This causes pigmentation to spread unevenly in the skin and accumulate at the surface of the epidermis. As a result, skin tone is no longer smooth and uniform. Dark spots begin to show up. In fact, certain areas begin to produce more melanin than others, leading to dark patches.

Melasma. This is a familiar and somewhat feared term, related to brown to grey-brown patches of pigmentation on the face. It usually shows up on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, chin and above the upper lip, as well as the forearms and neck. Melasma is usually triggered by hormonal changes associated with pregnancy (which is why the condition is also known as a pregnancy mask), use of birth control pills, hormone replacement or thyroid dysfunction.

Lentigo, commonly called age spots, sun spots or liver spots, is another form of hyperpigmentation. Lentigenes, as these spots are referred to, arise from intrinsic ageing of skin, as well as excessive sunlight.

Hyperpigmentation may also occur at a specific spot, following a minor injury or even a pimple.

UV radiation can cause hyperpigmentation, and so can ageing. Often, it may be a combination of the two. Therefore, pigmentation treatment approaches will vary greatly from one individual to another. Our solutions are as much about techniques and treatments as they are about understanding an individual’s skin. At Kaya, we have gathered a wealth of insight into how skin works. Applying this knowledge, the region’s largest team of dermatologists works to create specialised approaches, customised to every individual’s skin. We bring together medication with advanced Kaya products and technologies to deliver a truly effective line of pigmentation treatments. Do take a closer look at our solutions with the help of the search box below.

Damage control and damage reversal are the core principles. Our dermatologists have developed a unique integrated approach that combines laser technologies with advanced peels, and a range of skin care products that work at a cellular level.

The strategy is to penetrate deep into the dermis and strike at the very heart of the problem – the melanin deposits within. Our Pigmentation Laser Technology does precisely that. Causing the skin no distress, it goes right in to break melanin deposits up into tiny fragments which are then drained away and eliminated by the body’s immune and lymphatic systems. Closer to the surface, carefully selected chemical peels get down to work, smoothening and refining the skin’s surface by stripping away dead cells and encouraging new cells to rise up and take over. While about it, they break down pigmentation and activate collagen production, bring about overall renewal.

With the intensity of solar exposure in this part of the world, skin brightening has grown to be an important goal. We use a varied suite of specialised peels to revive dull skin and reverse mild hyperpigmentation. Peels also provide effective solutions for deep tanning, mild melasma, post-inflammatory pigmentation, knee and elbow pigmentation or post-acne pigmentation.

Yes, your even-toned look can be restored. Skin can look brighter. Hyperpigmentation can be reversed. However, there is no preventive treatment under the sun that can stop the pigmentation mechanism. We are, after all, talking about the body’s natural response to sunlight. That’s why, there’s a lot to be said for an active approach to protecting your skin with high SPF sunscreen and a hat or any suitable form of cover. Do follow your dermatologist’s advice with regard to aftercare.

By Kaya’s Expert Dermatologists