“The first step in treating pigmentation is to understand the underlying cause. By understanding the cause, I’m able to devise a bespoke program using medical-grade skincare and treatments to lead to a brighter, more even skin tone”
Sarah Hudson
The Three C’s of Pigmentation – Condition, Cause, Clinical Solution
When sun exposure, heat, medication, hormones, acne breakouts or skin injury stresses the skin, our pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) go into overdrive and produce excessive amounts of pigment within the skin. Skin can look patchy, dark or discoloured, and can even make the appearance of the skin look a little dirty.
There are three main causes of pigmentation:
Sun exposure– the most common due to the Australian sun. This type of pigment presents like freckles and sun spots.
Hormones – known as melasma, this hormone-induced pigment is commonly caused from the contraceptive pill, HRT, IVF, pregnancy and breast-feeding. Often referred to as ‘the mask of pregnancy’ it is generally seen in patches on the forehead, top lip, cheeks and has a butterfly appearance.
Exposure to extreme heat– commonly found in the area of flushing and inflammation such as the cheeks, clients who work in excessively hot environments may suffer with patches of brown pigment
“To achieve effective results for skin suffering sun damage and hyper pigmentation, each program needs to be uniquely customized. Surface pigmentation from sun damage is faster and easier to treat however deeper pigmentation, due to hormonal imbalance or acne scarring, requires time and patience. The outcomes however are worth it”
SH
Prevention is key and so daily sun protection is vital in managing all types of pigmentation – even for those who work in an office. As SPF in makeup does not offer sufficient sun protection, use a specified daily sunscreen and wear a hat and eyewear whenever possible.
Clinical Strategy for Skin Pigmentation
“In customising specific solutions for each and every client, I have achieved very successful results in treating the different causes of pigmentation – with both home care and professional treatments equally important”
SH
Home Maintenance for Skin Pigmentation
“ So many Australians suffer with pigmentation or brown spots. I prescribe daily use of a brightening serum and sunscreen to prevent further damage from occurring in addition to products containing pigment lightening ingredients”
SH
Sarah’s top 3 pigmentation heroes