Powerful solutions for troublesome pigmentation
Beauty expert Sharon Noonan shares the best ways to treat and manage hyperpigmentation
Sharon Noonan is our resident beauty advice columnist, with a wealth of experience over a 28-year career. The aesthetician and skin expert is based in her clinic, Longford’s Saffron Rouge, and in The Wicklow Street Clinic in Dublin. This month, she offers her expert advice on how to deal with pigmentation, as many women struggle with hyperpigmentation spots and marks, which develop as a result of a number of factors including sun exposure, heritage, hormones, birth control, acne and inflammation. It usually occurs in spots or patches, and most commonly appears on the face, chest and stomach. there are three common types of pigmentation
Age spots – These are small, flat dark areas on the skin caused by overactive pigment cells. On skin that has seen many years of sun exposure, age spots occur wherever the melanin is produced in high concentrations in localised areas.
Melasma – A skin condition that causes patches and spots which are darker than your usual complexion. It most often develops on the face after prolonged sun exposure or during pregnancy due to fluctuating hormone levels. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation – This is a common acquired disorder occurring after skin inflammation or injury such as allergic reactions, infections, trauma, and phototoxic eruptions. Skin cells react to damage or irritation by making extra melanin.
there are some incredible treatments for these skin conditions
Skin Peels – There are many peeling options for pigmentation that can be discussed with an experienced practitioner. Those on hormone therapies are not suitable for this treatment as your condition could progressively darken.
Laser – Laser is attracted to the pigment in the skin and heats it up, allowing it to “flake off”. It can take up to three treatments to see full elimination of the pigmentation.
Mesotherapy – For increased pigmentation like melasma, blemishes, freckles and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, this technique delivers lightening agents, like glutathione and vitamin C, directly into the skin layers to properly target the condition.
Microneedling – Great for lightening and reversing hyperpigmentation and sun damage. This is due to the power of collagen production and its ability to repair and restore your skin. Sun Protection – This is the best prevention method, always wear a minimum SPF 30 in the winter and SPF 50 during the hottest days of summer.
Go to an experienced skin specialist for advice on the best treatment for you, as well as nutritional advice that can improve your skin.