Pigmentation problems result from an uneven distribution of melanin over the skins surface. Pigmented lesions are caused by abnormal melanocyte production located in the basal layer of the epidermis. Melanocyte cells absorb ultraviolet radiation in order to protect cellular DNA. Over exposure to sun light, hormonal imbalance or an injury response can stimulate melanocyte cell production in order to protect our skin and this can cause discolored, pigmented lesions. The rate of melanin production varies from person to person. There is no cure for hyperpigmentation but is possible to improve the condition by fading the appearance of the discoloration.
The four major causes of hyperpigmentation are:
• sun exposure
• genetics
• hormones
• Inflammation
The sun is most often to blame for skin discoloration and premature aging and the total effects of sun damage may not be realized for years. Suntans and sunburns from early years may have very negative consequences later in life. Skin cancer is the most serious effect of sun damage and the reason we highly recommend avoiding direct sun between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. and applying sunscreen 30 minutes prior to exposure for optimal anti-aging sun protection.
It’s difficult to avoid sun exposure in the summer months and the effects of it can be seen in hyperpigmentation. That’s why it’s a good idea to visit your professional skin care therapist as summer ends and fall begins to address reversing the signs of summer sun damage.
There are a number of topical solutions for treating hyper-pigmentation. Product ingredients that are Tyrosinase Inhibitors (Tyrosinase is a copper-containing enzyme present in plant and animal tissues that catalyzes the production of melanin. It is found inside melanosomes) assist in preventing an overproduction of pigment:
• Hydroquinone, dramatically diminishes the appearance of stubborn hyperpigmentation.
• Vitamin c (ascorbic acid) is a photo protecting agent.
• Chromanyl palmitate slows down melanocyte cell activity and prevents the over-production of pigment. Can be used as an alternative to hydroquinone.
• Licorice extract slows down melanocyte cell activity and improves the appearance of uneven skin tone.
“What You See In The Mirror Is In Your Control.”
For home care Institut’ DERMed has created a brightening product system with glycolic, lactic, salicylic, and ascorbic and kojic acids, licorice extract and a moisturizer that contains continuing sun protective ingredients: Micronized Titanium Dioxide and Oxybenzone.
Institut’ DERMed Brightening Treatment Kit
PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR TREATING HYPERPIGMENTATION
Exfoliating enzymes, acids, chemical peels, dermaplaning and microdermabrasion help to remove existing abnormal pigmented cells and lift and lighten darker lesions.
Retinol+ Peel
• Retinol or even Retinoids are a derivative of Vitamin A. They are a nutrient that feeds the reticulum skin cell and it signals that cell to divide. The greater number of new skin cells the more old skin cells are pushed off the surface of the skin. Retinol works as a powerful antioxidant for the skin as well as really revs up the rate of cell renewal. This is beneficial for aging skin and for photo-damaged skin. The Retinol+ peel is a deep cell exfoliation that will remove the dead skin cells that make the skin look dull, lift hyperpigmentation and soften and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
Glycolic+ Peel
• Glycolic acid works in the skin to dissolve the lipid glue between the cells to slough off dead cell matter at an accelerated rate. Glycolic Acid also lightens the skin and helps increase collagen production. The Glycolic+ peel is recommended to correct and prevent blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, pustules, control oil and is also a super star anti-aging ingredient that does the heavy lifting revealing smoother, brighter, younger looking skin.
Lactic+ Peel
• This is a really good choice of peel for first-time Level 201 peel users or for those with sensitive skin. Formulated with Phenylethyl Resorcinol (Symwhite® 377) a natural skin-brightening compound, tyrosinase inhibitor and antioxidant. It is a highly efficient skin lightener that brightens the skin tone and treats uneven skin tone.
