One of the places most susceptible to uneven pigmentation is the face. Sun damage, contraceptive use and pregnancy can all lead to patches of uneven pigmentation. SkinBase treatments can be very effective, here’s a bit more about it…

What is pigmentation?

Put simply, pigmentation is a substance called melanin, which is created by skin cells called melanocytes. These cells produce melanin as a protective measure, primarily against the sun. Unwanted pigmentation is exactly the same on a molecular level as a suntan. The only difference is that in pigmentation, the melanocytes have been overstimulated and therefore produce too much melanin. The result is uneven, blotchy patches of pigment rather than the evenly distributed pigment of a suntan.

What treatments are available?

Effective treatments for pigmentation are few and far between. Exfoliating treatments are the most common – these help by lifting away layers of dead skin cells and stimulating cell renewal to help the skin to slough away the pigmentation more easily. This is a great option for light areas of pigmentation, so SkinBase Microdermabrasion Facials are perfect for this as they also help to firm the skin, leaving it truly rejuvenated. However, if the areas are more stubborn, old or dark pigmentation, then a more targeted treatment such as IPL photorejuvenation might be required for your client.

Microdermabrasion

A course of SkinBase Microdermabrasion treatments can achieve beneficial results in the treatment of pigmentation, clients should be advised that a course of 10-15 treatments may be needed. Microdermabrasion will help trapped pigment move up through the epidermal layers to be shed in its normal organised way. Sucess with Microdermabrasion will depend on how deep the pigmentation is in the skin.

IPL Photorejuvenation

IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light treatments use filtered light to target specific structures within the skin. It is a very specialised and advanced form of light therapy and is extremely effective against pigmentation. In the case of pigmentation, the melanin within the skin is the target. The IPL handset uses the filtered light to heat the melanin causing controlled damage to the cells. This engages the body’s healing response. The body removes the damaged melanin cells in the same way that it removes any other area of damage, by flushing it away and replacing it with ordinary cells.

Prevention is better than cure

We have the treatments to help, but prevention really is the easy option. Using an SPF every day will really protect clients skin from the elements and prevent sun damage and pigmentation occuring. A great retail option to have in stock.