Pigmentation and Sun Spots
“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
THE CONDITION
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.
THE CAUSE
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
THE CLINICAL SOLUTION
“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
Use the slider above to view the before and after photo
Treatment name: Intense Pulse Light (IPL)
Featuring: Dark Brown Spots
The IPL LimeLight Facial is a non-invasive approach to treating benign pigmented and vascular lesions, offering the advantage of improving skin tone and surface imperfections associated with ageing and sun damage. There is minimal downtime, and you can apply mineral make up immediately afterwards. All areas of the body can be treated, including face, neck and décolletage, back of hands, forearms and back.
Use the slider above to view the before and after photo
Treatment name: AcuTip Laser
Featuring: Pigment Spots
AcuTip is small tip laser allowing aggressive pinpoint treatments without compromising the safety of the skin. Able to target an array of concerns, from small and dark to large and light pigmentation, the AcuTip can also treat near the eye and brow area and is an excellent treatment option for both men and women.
Use the slider above to view the before and after photo
Treatment name: Medical Peels (Cosmelan, Dermalan)
Featuring: Hormonal-based Pigment
Featuring new generation formulation and technology, medical peels safely and effectively treat this very fragile form of pigmentation by inhibiting a pigment making process called melanogenesis. By paralysing melanin production for a long period of time, surface cells in the epidermis flake away – taking the pigment cells with them. With its high antioxidant concentration, the treatment also stimulates collagen production and cell renewal, giving skin a luminous radiant glow.
“I am extremely cautious and never treat this type of pigment with IPL or Laser as the heat from these devices can make the concern worse. I treat hormonal pigment with medical peels and LED Light therapy and am continually excited by the excellent results I achieve with these treatments”
SH
Use the slider above to view the before and after photo
Treatment name: Clinical Peels
Featuring: Superficial Pigmentation
Peels are an excellent treatment method because they exfoliate surface cells and brighten dull skin. Able to be performed frequently, achieving fast results, clinical peels also incorporate ingredients that help to control inflammation, rather than causing trauma to the skin.
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
1.Break up pigment with Brightening Serums
Brightening serums contain ingredients that are formulated to stop excess levels of pigment from being produced. Anti-inflammatory ingredients are also essential as inflammation in the skin can also contribute to pigment production.
2.Exfol Complex
This ‘chirally correct’ exfoliating serum delivers a clinical strength of AHA’s giving an exceptional cellular renewal activity for clearer, smoother, more evenly toned skin.
3.Skin must-have Sunscreen
Even 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure will stimulate and activate melanocytes to produce pigment. With its advanced formulation, Reflect can be used on the most sensitive and pigmented skin.