PIGMENTATION
Pigmentation occurs in two different forms: passive and inflammatory. Inflammatory pigmentation occurs as a result of the activation of our skin’s natural defence mechanisms. Melanin moves up to defend against trauma caused by factors such as sun exposure, poor products, or injury.
Passive pigmentation results from an internal imbalance that stimulates the melanin-stimulating hormone. These imbalances can be caused by pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, the contraceptive pill, and various medications.
We revise pigmentation, brighten, and refresh the skin by removing dead cell build-up and the accumulation of melanin (dark patches) and suppress further melanin production by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase in the skin. We analyse the individual cases of pigmentation and tailor a targeted treatment program.
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Treating pigmentation (such as dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or melasma) is possible through a combination of lifestyle changes, natural remedies, and non-invasive treatments. While these methods may not provide the immediate or dramatic results of medical treatments or lasers, they can still help fade pigmentation over time with consistent use.
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Here are several effective ways to address pigmentation without medical or laser treatments:
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Sun Protection (Sunscreen):
Sunscreen is a simple yet powerful tool that protects the skin from UV damage, preserving its health and preventing long-term harm. Reflective sunscreen, often called physical or mineral sunscreen, contains ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reflecting harmful UV rays away instead of absorbing them, making it ideal for sensitive skin or those prone to irritation.
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Chemical Exfoliants: Mild exfoliating acids like AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) can help remove the outer layers of skin. Some options are:
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Lactic acid: Gently exfoliates the skin and can lighten hyperpigmentation.
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Glycolic acid: Another AHA that exfoliates and helps brighten skin.
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Salicylic acid: A BHA that helps exfoliate inside the pores and can be helpful for treating pigmentation from acne.
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PHA (Polyhydroxy Acids): These are gentler than AHAs and BHAs, making them suitable for sensitive skin.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce pigmentation and prevent new spots from forming. It brightens the skin by inhibiting melanin production, the pigment responsible for dark spots.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3):
Niacinamide is another key ingredient for reducing hyperpigmentation. It helps brighten the skin by reducing the transfer of melanin to skin cells and also has anti-inflammatory properties.
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Licorice Extract:
Licorice extract contains glabridin, a compound known for its ability to reduce the production of melanin, which can help lighten hyperpigmentation.
Papaya and Other Enzyme-Based Treatments:
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which gently exfoliates the skin and can help fade pigmentation. Other fruit enzymes, like pineapple (bromelain) and pumpkin, also have similar effects.
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Turmeric:
Turmeric, rich in curcumin, is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps brighten skin and reduce pigmentation by inhibiting melanin production.
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Green Tea Extract:
Green tea contains EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce pigmentation caused by sun exposure.
