Pigmentation

Types:

1. Epidermal (e.g: Freckles, Solar lentigo)
2. Dermal (e.g: Horis' macule)
3. Hyper-pigmentation (PIH) (e.g: Acne marks)

 

Treatment:

1. Whitening Topical
   In some cases, doctor will prescribe some medicated topical which contains ingredients like Hydroquinone, Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Azelaic Acid, Soy, AHA and Retinoid A, etc. In general, the effect will start to be seen after continuous usage of 6-8 weeks. Some medication would have some side effects, such as dehydration, hence it must be prescribed by the doctor to ensure a proper dosage is used.
2. Laser Treatment
   • Long-Pulsed Alexandrite Laser has a 755nm wavelength.It targets to treat some epidermal pigments without causing any harm to the skin.The overall skin texture can be improved after a multiple times of treatment as well.
   • Q-Switched Nd: YAG Laser offers 2 modes of application - 532nm and 1064nm wavelengths, where the shorter one can target those more superficial pigments like solar lentigo and the longer one can target those in the dermal area like Horis’ macule.

 

Prevention:

Avoid from the sun is an effective and crucial way for pigments prevention.Since UV lights can go through clouds, no matter it is rainy or cloudy, we should wear sunscreen (at least SPF30) for daily protection. Even if you stay indoor all day long, you cannot skip the sunscreen because of the computer screen and spot light would also carry UV lights that harm our skin.

 

Things to note after treatment:

1. Do not have sunbath at least a week before and after treatment
2. Treated skin may get quite sensitive in the first few sessions. Just follow doctor's instruction to apply the prescribed medication and it will be fine
3. Apply sunscreen (≥ SPF30) at least 3 times daily
4. The pigment spots may form a scab, which will fall off by itself in a week, do not peel it off yourself
5. Use the hydrating serum and mask more frequently as the treated skin will get quite dry in the first few days after treatment