Anti-Pigmentation Frequently Asked Questions

Anti-Pigmentation

What causes skin pigmentation?

Melanin gives our skin its colour, whether dark or light complexioned, we all have varying amounts of melanin in our skin. Pigmented lesions are dark in colour simply because the melanin has become abnormally localized and concentrated in one area of the skin. High concentrations of melanin arise from several causes. Some types are present at birth, but most pigmentation occurs as a result of overexposure to the sun's damaging rays, ageing, hormonal change (Chloasma) arising from several causes including some oral contraceptives, or pregnancy (Melasma).
We are now very aware of the adverse effects of over exposure to the sun and modern sun screens and other skin care products are directed at preventing, or at least minimising, damage to our skin arising from normal exposure and from "sun-bathing". While protection from the sun remains the best prevention from sun spots and related sun-damage skin disorders, there are treatments available for those already suffering from "photo-aging", although most brown spots are easily ignored, many are quite conspicuous and can detract from your skin's natural beauty and your feelings of well-being and esteem. Pigmentation removal depends on the type, location, and cause of the pigmentation. 

Solar pigmentation

Solar lentigos, as the name indicates, is a direct result of sun exposure — the skin \reacts to the UV (Ultra Violet) rays from the Sun. Many of us have endured sunburns; the acute form of Sun damage to the skin. The reality is that the effects of sun-damaged skin increase with age. Over time, we can note the gradual changes (chronic) in our skin caused by the accumulation of sun exposure.

Hormonal pigmentation

Chloasma occurs quite commonly in women taking oral contraceptive tablets. The skin pigmentations usually develop slowly but may be noticed shortly after starting oral contraception or changing the brand or dosage strength, but may also occur after many months of use. You should consult your General Medical Practitioner and discuss alternative contraceptives.

Pregnancy

Melasma is triggered by sunlight and the incidence increases with age. Another important contributing factor is hormonal changes. Melasma is also called "mask of pregnancy" because it appears during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth. Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy are known to aggravate pre-existing Melasma.

How do you remove pigmentation?

Correct analysis is important to ensure that you receive the best most appropriate therapeutic treatment. The pigment can be near the surface – which is easier to remove or deeper in the skin – which is harder to remove. 
Plus Plus Clinic have the equipment, experience, training and qualifications to provide safe an effective treatment of most types of pigmented blemishes and lesions. Plus Plus Clinic has chosen the Venus Q-Switch Laser for its proven effectiveness arising from the combination of high power and nanosecond pulses that deliver peak energy throughout the layers of the epidermis faster than the normal relaxation time of the tissue. The result is a safe, effective way to control the laser energy and safely achieve desired results. The Venus Q-Switch Laser has been engineered to remove…(?) 
The machine has two wavelengths in one laser, these are 532nm and 1064nm Nd: YAG. These wavelengths add flexibility to the treatment options for skin blemishes and lesions that the Q-Switch treat, As with all Laser therapy treatments, the frequency and number of treatments will depend on your skin type, the area affected and the size of that area. 
Contact Plus Plus Clinic to arrange a free consultation to discuss a treatment plan that suits your needs. Sometimes clients need to be referred to their General Medical Practitioner for assessment and when in doubt will not treat until a Medical Clearance is provided.

Are there any precautions to take during treatment?

As with all laser treatment, you must avoid exposure to direct sunlight before treatment, during treatment and for some weeks following treatment.